Sentencing Guidelines for Armed Robbery: What to Expect When Convicted

Leah Davis Madden • October 16, 2023
Davis Madden explains what to expect when convicted with armed robbery

Armed robbery is a serious crime that comes with severe consequences that not only threaten your freedom but also negatively impact your life even after you have served your sentence. According to the law in Georgia, you commit armed robbery when you take property directly from a person or within the person’s immediate presence, with the use of a weapon or any other device that resembles an offensive weapon.


Offensive weapons can be anything, ranging from a knife and gun to a screwdriver or a large tree limb. If you or someone you know is facing an armed robbery charge, this article provides more information about the sentencing guidelines so you know what to expect upon conviction.



What to Expect If You Are Convicted of Armed Robbery in Georgia

Armed robbery is a first-degree crime and a major felony charge in Georgia that carries stiff penalties and severe repercussions. When you are convicted of armed robbery, you risk serving between 10 and 20 years in prison. The minimum jail time is 10 years without any chance of early release. Armed robbery cases that end up in death will have offenders facing a possible death penalty.


Committing a pharmacy armed robbery, or forcefully robbing any drug dispensary carries more serious consequences. If you rob a pharmacy, make away with prescription drugs, and injure or cause someone serious bodily harm during the process, you face a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison. Note that you must serve at least ten years in prison, and will not be eligible for early release.


Armed bank robbery, on the other hand, attracts a sentence of up to 25 years in prison and $250,000 in fines. Offenders who have been convicted previously of serious violent crimes in the USA and are charged with a serious felony in Georgia that doesn’t carry a death penalty may face a life sentence in prison without parole.


Besides jail time, the court may require you to pay penalties, fines, and restitution following an armed robbery conviction, depending on the incident circumstances.


Conclusion

Being a convicted felon can negatively affect other aspects of your life even after you serve your sentence. The history can limit your ability to get custody rights, travel, find employment and housing, and enjoy public benefits. However, just because you are facing armed robbery charges doesn’t mean you are guilty. If you are in Atlanta, Georgia, Davis Madden & Associates, P.C., can help you understand the legal implications of your charges, protect your rights, and fight for your interests. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.


The material provided on this blog site does not/is not intended to constitute legal advice. All content is for general information only.



Request a Consultation

Georgia Criminal Law Blog

Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Attorney Leah Davis Madden June 1, 2026
Any form of child abuse, including child molestation, is a very serious crime under Georgia Law. Understanding how this crime is defined can be crucial, irrespective of whether you are a concerned parent, a social worker, a teacher, or someone falsely accused of such a horrendous act. It's crucial to have a qualified Criminal Lawyer in Atlanta to assist you when dealing with such serious charges. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Attorney Leah Davis Madden May 16, 2026
Going through the legal process when charged with a crime can be extremely stressful and intimidating, especially if one lacks familiarity with the intricacies of the criminal justice system. At Davis Madden & Associates, P.C., we strongly believe in empowering our clients by equipping them with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their case. One crucial aspect of criminal law proceedings that can greatly influence the outcome is Motions for Reconsideration. This blog post aims to shed light on this important procedure for Atlanta residents who are grappling with charges for an array of crimes, from drunk driving and sex crimes to murder, assault, and armed robbery. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden May 4, 2026
When you find yourself or someone you care about entangled in the complex web of criminal charges, the experience can be unnerving. Not understanding the workings of the criminal justice system and the legal particulars of the charges can exacerbate the anxiety. At Davis Madden & Associates, P.C., we are devoted to fighting your charges effectively and assisting you in understanding and navigating the legal process. This post provides crucial insights into felony sex crime charges in Atlanta, examining the laws, penalties, and potential legal defenses. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden April 16, 2026
Being a resident of Atlanta, Georgia, being knowledgeable about roads and traffic regulations is an implicit part of your driving responsibility. However, if you ever face a reckless driving conviction, it's crucial to understand its impacts on your record. This post aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the situation, explain why hiring a Criminal Lawyer in Atlanta is crucial, and the penalties you might face. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden April 1, 2026
Under Georgia law, arson is defined as intentionally damaging any property by fire or explosive without the owner's consent or with the intent to defraud an insurer of the property ( source ). As any experienced criminal lawyer knows, this is a serious crime and will result in a felony charge if convicted.
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden March 16, 2026
If you live in Atlanta, Georgia, or the greater State of Georgia, and are facing criminal charges such as drunk driving, sex crimes, murder, assault, or armed robbery, Davis Madden & Associates, P.C., your dedicated Criminal Lawyer in Atlanta, is here to assist you. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden March 2, 2026
Any criminal charge brings with it a host of concerns, but an Aggravated Assault charge holds severe consequences. At Davis Madden & Associates, P.C , we're here to help you navigate this challenging journey.
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden February 16, 2026
Whether you or your loved one is dealing with charges relating to Drunk Driving, Sex Crimes, Murder, Assault, or Armed Robbery in Georgia, it can be understandably overwhelming. The criminal justice system can be intricate and demanding, often making it hard for those unfamiliar to navigate. Here at Davis Madden & Associates, P.C. , we're experts at understanding the law, committed to guiding clients through this whirlwind. Among the strategies that may be explored with your Criminal Lawyer, a Motion for Modification of Sentence is significant.
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden February 3, 2026
Any run-in with the law can be a daunting experience, especially when the charges are severe, like robbery or armed robbery. Understanding the distinction between these two crimes is crucial when facing such charges. In Georgia, these two offenses are treated uniquely, and the differences will significantly impact the possible punishment and the required defense strategy. Here is a brief yet comprehensive exploration of how Georgia law distinguishes between robbery and armed robbery.
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden January 16, 2026
For many residents of Atlanta, Georgia, and vicinities, getting charged with a crime like Drunk Driving, Sex Crimes, Murder, Assault, or Armed robbery can be daunting. Davis Madden & Associates, P.C. can provide the legal help you need. With us, a Criminal Lawyer in Atlanta will help you navigate the anxieties and uncertainties brought on by such situations.