Robbery Lawyer in Virginia — Defending Against Serious Felony Charges
Robbery in Virginia is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-58, punishable by 5 years to life in prison. A robbery lawyer Virginia from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these charges. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery is defined in Virginia as the taking of personal property from another person, or from their immediate presence, against their will by violence, intimidation, or threat of violence. The core statute is Va. Code § 18.2-58. This is a Class 5 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 5 to life. If the robbery involves the use or display of a firearm, the mandatory minimum sentence increases under separate statutes. The charge is prosecuted in the Circuit Court of the jurisdiction where the alleged offense occurred.
External Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s robbery statute, visit the Virginia General Assembly website. For information on court procedures and locations, refer to the Virginia Judicial System website.
Procedural Insights for a Virginia Robbery Case
Robbery cases in Virginia begin with an arrest and are presented to a grand jury for indictment. The case then proceeds in Circuit Court. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that property was taken through violence or intimidation. A skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Virginia will scrutinize identification procedures, witness credibility, and the evidence of force or threat. The defense may challenge the element of intent or argue that the taking did not involve the required level of intimidation.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or upon learning of an investigation.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all evidence the prosecution intends to use.
- A defense strategy is developed, which may involve filing pre-trial motions to suppress evidence.
- Your lawyer will engage in plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, aiming for a reduction or dismissal.
- If no acceptable plea is reached, your attorney will prepare for and conduct a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Virginia
In Virginia, robbery is a Class 5 felony punishable by 5 years to life in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Class 5 Felony | 5 years to life* | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Robbery with a Firearm | Class 5 Felony with mandatory minimum | 5-year mandatory minimum | Up to $100,000 | All standard felony consequences plus enhanced penalties. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both prosecution tactics and defense strategies.
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
Our attorneys have achieved favorable outcomes in numerous serious cases. For example, we have secured amendments of charges from driving suspended to a non-criminal violation in Albemarle County. In federal court, we have negotiated resolutions for probation violations that resulted in minimal incarceration and termination of probation. 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 criminal matters. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases with financial evidence.
Contact Our Virginia Robbery Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location is centrally located to serve clients across Northern Virginia. We represent individuals in Fairfax, Arlington, Loudoun, Prince William, and surrounding counties.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only. Serving neighborhoods including Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Centreville, Chantilly, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Manassas, Woodbridge, Leesburg, Ashburn, Warrenton, Stafford, and Fredericksburg.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Robbery involves taking property by force or intimidation. Armed robbery specifically involves the use or display of a firearm or other weapon, which triggers mandatory minimum prison sentences under Virginia law.
Should I talk to the police if I’m suspected of robbery?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and request to speak with a robbery lawyer Virginia immediately. Anything you say can be used against you.
What are the defenses to a robbery charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal, absence of force or intimidation, and insufficient evidence. An armed robbery defense lawyer Virginia can evaluate the specifics of your case to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Can a robbery charge be reduced?
Yes. Through skilled negotiation, an attorney may secure a reduction to a lesser charge like petit larceny or larceny from the person, which are misdemeanors with far less severe penalties than a felony robbery conviction.
How long does a robbery case take in Virginia?
A felony robbery case in Circuit Court typically takes 3 to 9 months from arrest to trial, though complex cases can take longer. The Speedy Trial Act guarantees a trial within 9 months for an incarcerated defendant.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and with related issues such as reckless driving.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.