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.



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