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 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.
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden January 2, 2026
As we usher in the New Year, it is crucial for residents of Atlanta, Georgia, to stay in tune with the latest legal changes surrounding criminal offenses such as drunk driving, sex crimes, murder, assault, and armed robbery. At Davis Madden & Associates, P.C. , we manage legal complexities and challenges so you can focus on navigating your life.
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden December 16, 2025
Accidents sometimes happen - a broken window, damaged properties due to an altercation, or even careless actions can sometimes result in unintended damage to someone else's property. However, under Georgia law, even seemingly minor property damage can carry serious penalties and consequences. As an experienced team of Criminal Lawyers in Atlanta, we understand the complexities of such misdemeanor criminal damage cases and the sometimes disproportionate consequences they can bring. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden December 2, 2025
Navigating the legal system can be particularly challenging, especially when faced with vehicular homicide charges in the state of Georgia. As a Criminal Lawyer, Atlanta-based Davis Madden & Associates, P.C. is dedicated to helping you understand these complex legal processes. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden November 17, 2025
You or a loved one is facing a theft charge under $500 in Atlanta. At Davis Madden & Associates, P.C., we understand how unnerving this can be. You might be dealing with uncertainty, worrying about potential penalties, and grappling with the complex maze that is the criminal justice system. Fortunately, our experienced Criminal Lawyers in Atlanta are here to help you navigate this challenging time. 
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden November 3, 2025
In Georgia, being convicted of a felony murder can have severe repercussions. A criminal lawyer in Atlanta, well-versed in Georgia's criminal laws, must handle the complexities of such cases to navigate potential pitfalls and pursue the best possible outcome.
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden October 16, 2025
Understanding the Legalities of Drug Possession
Criminal defense attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
By Leah Davis Madden October 1, 2025
Understanding Misdemeanor Battery Charges: An Overview