Chicago Armed Robbery Attorneys

Weinberg & Miceli is a trusted name in criminal defense, renowned for our success in representing clients facing serious charges like armed robbery. With over 40 years of experience, Attorney Steven J. Weinberg and our dedicated team have helped countless clients secure favorable outcomes in complex criminal cases. 

A conviction for armed robbery can come with significant consequences, from years in jail to hefty fines. If you have been charged with this crime, do not wait to contact our firm. The sooner you reach out, the quicker we can use our resources and know-how to craft a strategic defense to protect your freedom and future. 

Call (312) 436-0711 or contact us online to request a free consultation with our Chicago armed robbery attorneys. Virtual consultations are available.

How Does Illinois Law Define Armed Robbery

Under Illinois law, armed robbery is a felony offense defined as knowingly taking property from another person while using or threatening the use of force and doing so while armed with a dangerous weapon. 

A robbery becomes “armed” when any of the following apply:

• The offender carries a firearm or another deadly weapon during the robbery
• The offender possesses an object that appears to be a weapon, even if it is not functional or real (e.g., a replica gun)
• The offender uses or threatens the use of a dangerous item capable of causing bodily harm

Penalties for Armed Robbery

Illinois courts severely punish armed robbery. The exact penalties depend on several factors, including the type of weapon involved, whether the victim was harmed, and the overall circumstances of the offense.

Base penalty (class X felony):

• Armed robbery is classified as a Class X felony, punishable by 6 to 40 years in prison with no option for probation.

Enhanced penalties for firearm use:

• If a firearm was present but not discharged, 15 years are added to the sentence.
• If the firearm was discharged, 20 years will be added to the sentence.
• If the firearm was discharged and resulted in bodily harm, the defendant may face 25 years to life imprisonment.

Collateral consequences:

• Beyond prison time, those convicted of armed robbery face devastating collateral consequences, such as a permanent criminal record, reduced employment opportunities, loss of the right to own a firearm, and damaged reputations.

Possible Defenses Against Armed Robbery Charges

Our Chicago armed robbery lawyers are skilled in developing defense strategies that take prosecutors’ arguments head-on and assert our clients’ rights. In your case, our legal team may pursue the following defenses, among others: 

• Mistaken identity - Eyewitness accounts are often the foundation of armed robbery charges, but they are not infallible. We can challenge the reliability of these identifications, especially in high-stress situations.
• Lack of a weapon - The prosecution must prove the presence and use of a weapon during the robbery. If this cannot be demonstrated, the charges could be reduced or dismissed.
• Coercion or duress - If the defendant was compelled to commit the crime under threat or harm, we may be able to argue this defense.
• Consent to take property - If the property was taken with the purported victim’s consent, the offense of armed robbery may not apply.
• Unconstitutional search or arrest - If law enforcement violated the defendant’s rights during evidence collection or arrest, we may file motions to suppress that evidence, weakening the prosecution’s case.