Robbery Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
Robbery in Alexandria is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-58, punishable by 5 years to life in prison. A conviction creates a permanent violent felony record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience defending clients at Alexandria General District and Circuit Courts. Our robbery lawyer Alexandria team provides a strong, case-specific defense. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery is defined in Virginia as the taking of personal property from another person or in their presence, against their will, by violence, intimidation, or threat of violence. The core statute is Va. Code § 18.2-58. The use of force or the threat of force is what distinguishes robbery from the lesser offense of larceny. Armed robbery, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-58, involves the use or display of a firearm or other weapon in the commission of the robbery and carries even more severe mandatory minimum sentences.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the Virginia robbery statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-58 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and filings for Alexandria cases are handled at the Alexandria General District Court website.
Defending a Robbery Charge in Alexandria Court
An armed robbery defense lawyer Alexandria must handle a high-stakes process. In Alexandria, all felony robbery charges begin with a preliminary hearing at the Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street). The Commonwealth must prove probable cause that a robbery occurred and that you were the perpetrator. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Alexandria Circuit Court for a potential jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes these cases aggressively.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing. For robbery, securing a bond can be difficult.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your attorney will challenge the prosecution’s evidence at a hearing in Alexandria General District Court within 21-60 days.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Discovery and Motions: Your defense lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence, challenge identifications, or seek dismissal based on legal defects.
- Trial or Negotiation: The case will proceed to a jury trial or, if in your best interest, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction to a lesser charge like grand larceny.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Alexandria
In Alexandria, robbery is a felony punishable by 5 years to life imprisonment. If a firearm is used, mandatory minimum sentences of 3 to 5 years apply, depending on the specific circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Felony | 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Permanent violent felony record; loss of firearm rights; difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Robbery with a Firearm (Armed Robbery) | Felony | 5 years to life, with mandatory minimum of 3 years for first offense, 5 years for subsequent | Up to $100,000 | All of the above, plus enhanced sentencing under Virginia’s firearm laws. |
| Attempted Robbery | Felony | 2 to 10 years | Up to $100,000 | Same felony record consequences as a completed robbery. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Alexandria Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the procedures and personnel at the Alexandria courts. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds its case. For a robbery charge, this experience is invaluable in developing a defense that challenges the prosecution’s evidence at every stage.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results and Defense Approach
While every case is unique, our approach to robbery defense is thorough and aggressive. We immediately investigate the circumstances of the arrest, witness identifications, and the evidence of force or intimidation. In one firm-wide case, we successfully argued for a reduction of an armed robbery charge to grand larceny based on a lack of evidence proving the use of a real firearm, significantly reducing our client’s exposure. Another case involved challenging a flawed police lineup, skilled to the suppression of key identification evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex felony cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases involving financial evidence or digital forensics.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington Location
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at Alexandria courts. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only. We serve Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
Frequently Asked Questions: Robbery Charges in Alexandria
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Yes, there is a major difference. Robbery involves taking property by force or threat. Armed robbery specifically involves the use or display of a firearm or other weapon, which triggers mandatory minimum prison sentences under Va. Code § 18.2-58.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the evidence and the specific facts. While robbery itself is always a felony, a skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Alexandria may negotiate a reduction to a felony like grand larceny (which has a lower penalty range) or, in rare cases involving weak evidence of force, to a misdemeanor larceny. The strength of the prosecution’s case is key.
What are common defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal, claim of right to the property, absence of force or intimidation, and alibi. An armed robbery defense lawyer Alexandria might also challenge the legality of a search, the reliability of a witness ID, or whether the object used was actually a weapon.
How long does a robbery case take in Alexandria?
A robbery case can take several months to over a year. The preliminary hearing in General District Court is typically within 60 days of arrest. If certified to Circuit Court, the process from arraignment to trial can take 3 to 9 months or longer, depending on case complexity and court scheduling.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of robbery?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with a robbery lawyer Alexandria. Contact our firm at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Related Legal Services in Alexandria: If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI, family law, and reckless driving in Alexandria. For more information on criminal defense across Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also represent clients in neighboring areas like Arlington County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.