Robbery/Burglary

Robbery and burglary are similar charges. Robbery involves the presence of a victim and comes in varying degrees. There is a substantial difference between first and second degree charges. Missouri defines several types of crimes as “dangerous felonies” which require that a minimum of 85% of any sentence be served along with minimum sentences. Plea negotiations often hinge on facts that if successfully challenged, can result in a reduction in the degree of the charge. This may open up the possibility of a significantly better outcome including probation and a suspended imposition of sentence.

If you or a loved one are facing robbery or burglary charges, call (314) 456-4567 to discuss.

Recent Results

First degree robbery reduced Defendant was charged with robbery and armed criminal action in an alleged hold up in University City. Defendant was not accused of holding the weapon, but was accused of being part of the scheme to rob a couple in their car. By agreement, the State amended the charge to second degree robbery, thereby avoiding the ‘dangerous felony’ designation that would have required defendant to serve 85% of his sentence, and ran his time concurrent with another sentence so that the guilty plea did not extend a sentence he was already serving.
Burglary time served Defendant was on probation and was arrested for burglary. The defendant was revoked and sentenced to five years on his prior case. Due to a long history of prior burglaries, the State recommended defendant be sentenced to 7 years. Any sentence would have increased the minimum sentence defendant was serving before being eligible for parole. By agreement, defendant was sentenced to time served to avoid getting stacked with additional time.
First degree assault dismissed Defendant was accused in Ste. Francois County of firing a weapon in the dark at a neighbor. At preliminary hearing, the alleged victim was not able to convince the Court that he was able to see the defendant’s actions due to the lighting conditions. Two of the four counts were dismissed at preliminary hearing. The State recommended seven years on the remaining counts. Attorney Richard Lozano negotiated a dismissal of all counts.