Payette Law | Rhode Island Criminal Defense
Rhode Island Robbery Defense Lawyer
Charged with first-degree robbery or armed robbery? Your freedom is at stake.
A robbery charge is one of the most serious criminal accusations a person can face in Rhode Island. A conviction can result in lengthy prison sentences, including life imprisonment for first-degree robbery. The consequences extend beyond prison time and can affect your family, career, and future.
At Payette Law, I defend people facing first-degree robbery, second-degree robbery, armed robbery, and other serious felony charges throughout Rhode Island. I have extensive jury-trial experience, including multiple murder cases, and understand what it takes to defend cases where the stakes are this high.
Defending First-Degree and Armed Robbery Charges
Rhode Island robbery charges can involve allegations of taking property through force, threats, or intimidation. The degree of the charge and potential sentence depend on the circumstances of the alleged offense.
First-degree robbery is an especially serious felony. Rhode Island law provides for enhanced penalties in cases involving circumstances such as the use of a weapon, serious bodily injury, or other aggravating factors specified by law. A conviction can carry a sentence of up to life in prison.
These cases require careful investigation. Questions about identification, witness credibility, the alleged use of force, and the evidence connecting someone to the incident can make a significant difference in the defense.
Bail in Rhode Island Robbery Cases
Being charged with robbery does not mean you should give up fighting for your release. Bail can be a major issue in serious felony cases, particularly when the allegations involve a weapon or allegations of violence.
I understand how important it is for clients to have the opportunity to return home while their cases are pending. I fight for bail and carefully present the circumstances of each case when arguing for release.
Read more about fighting for bail in Rhode Island robbery cases.
How I Defend Robbery Charges
Every robbery case has its own facts. I do not simply accept the police version of events or assume the State's evidence is accurate. I examine the investigation, question the evidence, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Depending on the circumstances, a defense may involve:
- Challenging identification: Eyewitness identification can be mistaken. I examine the circumstances of the identification, inconsistencies in witness accounts, and available surveillance footage.
- Challenging the evidence: I examine police reports, physical evidence, video recordings, and witness statements for inconsistencies and weaknesses.
- Questioning the allegations of force or use of a weapon: The State must prove the elements of the charged offense. I examine whether the evidence actually supports the allegations and any claimed aggravating circumstances.
- Challenging bad searches: If police obtained evidence through an unconstitutional search or seizure, I pursue motions to suppress that evidence.
- Examining witness credibility: I investigate conflicting accounts, prior statements, motives, and other issues that may affect the reliability of the State's witnesses.
- Preparing for trial: When the State cannot prove its case, I am prepared to challenge the allegations before a judge or jury.
My experience handling serious felony trials, constitutional challenges, and complicated evidentiary issues allows me to approach these cases with the preparation and attention they demand.
An Experienced Trial Lawyer for Serious Felony Charges
Robbery cases often involve complicated evidence, serious sentencing exposure, and difficult decisions about how to defend the charges. Attorney Elizabeth Payette has tried numerous felony cases before Rhode Island juries, including multiple murder cases.
She has also served on Rhode Island's court-appointed panels for murder and other serious felonies. Her experience includes challenging constitutional violations, examining forensic evidence, and developing defenses around the specific facts of each case.
At Payette Law, you work directly with your attorney. Your case deserves individual attention, careful preparation, and a defense that takes the consequences seriously.
Don't Let a Robbery Charge Define Your Future
A robbery accusation does not automatically mean a conviction. The State must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. The evidence, the investigation, and the circumstances surrounding the arrest all matter.
I examine every case individually, explain the available options, and work to achieve the best possible outcome. That may mean challenging the evidence, negotiating a resolution, or taking the case to trial.
Charged with Robbery in Rhode Island?
If you or someone in your family is facing a robbery or armed robbery charge, contact Payette Law to discuss the case. The earlier you have an attorney involved, the sooner your defense can begin.
Payette Law | Rhode Island Criminal Defense
Call: 401-854-7794
Based in Providence. Representing clients throughout Rhode Island.