Robbery Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach — What Are Your Legal Options?
Robbery in Virginia Beach is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-58, punishable by 5 years to life in prison. A conviction creates a permanent violent felony record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for robbery charges. Our robbery defense lawyer Virginia Beach has documented case results in Virginia Beach. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery is defined in Virginia as the taking of personal property from another person, or from their immediate presence, against their will, by violence or intimidation. The core statute is Va. Code § 18.2-58. Unlike larceny, robbery involves force or the threat of force, elevating it to a violent felony. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the taking was accomplished through violence, assault, or putting the victim in fear of bodily injury.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the severe consequences of a robbery conviction and build defenses focused on challenging the elements of force, intent, and identification.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s robbery statutes, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website (law.lis.virginia.gov). Court procedures and local rules for Virginia Beach cases are available on the Virginia Beach General District Court website (vacourts.gov).
Local Court Process for Robbery Charges in Virginia Beach
Robbery charges in Virginia Beach begin with an arrest and an initial appearance before a magistrate. Because robbery is a felony, the case starts in Virginia Beach General District Court for a preliminary hearing. At this hearing, the Commonwealth must show probable cause that a robbery occurred and that you committed it. If the judge finds probable cause, your case is certified to the Virginia Beach Circuit Court for a jury trial. An experienced armed robbery defense lawyer Virginia Beach can challenge the evidence at the preliminary hearing, potentially getting charges reduced or dismissed before the case ever reaches a jury.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate who will advise you of the charges and set bond conditions.
- Secure Representation: Contact a defense attorney immediately. Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your attorney will represent you in Virginia Beach General District Court to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, you will be formally arraigned on the indictment in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress, and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Resolution: The case will proceed to a jury trial or be resolved through a plea agreement based on the strength of the defense.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Virginia
In Virginia Beach, a robbery conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-58 carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Class 5 Felony* | 5 years to life (mandatory 5-year min.) | Court discretion | Permanent violent felony record; loss of voting rights; firearm prohibition; difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Robbery with a Firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Separate mandatory penalty | Mandatory additional 3 years (consecutive) | Court discretion | All penalties above, plus enhanced sentencing. |
*A Class 5 felony carries a sentencing range of 1-10 years, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. However, robbery has a specific, higher mandatory minimum penalty as stated in § 18.2-58.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Robbery and Violent Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us unique insight into how the Commonwealth builds robbery cases. We have a documented record of case results across Virginia. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the evidence—challenging eyewitness identification, examining the validity of the “force or intimidation” element, and investigating police procedures. For charges involving a weapon, our armed robbery defense lawyer Virginia Beach team scrutinizes the evidence linking the firearm to the accused and the alleged crime.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal cases is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor. With a background in accounting and information systems, he provides a strategic advantage in cases involving financial evidence or digital discovery.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of case results. In Virginia Beach, we have secured favorable outcomes for clients across various practice areas. Every case is unique, and we dedicate our resources to seeking the best possible result, whether that is a dismissal, reduction of charges, or a favorable plea agreement. We prepare every case as if it is going to trial to ensure our clients’ rights are protected at every stage.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Robbery Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-64 and other major highways. Serving Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, Oceana, and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Robbery Charges in Virginia Beach
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Robbery involves force or intimidation. Armed robbery is robbery committed while using a firearm or other weapon. Under Va. Code § 18.2-53.1, using a firearm during a robbery triggers a mandatory additional 3-year prison sentence, consecutive to any other sentence.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. Robbery is always a felony. However, a skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Virginia Beach may negotiate to reduce the charge to a lesser felony like grand larceny from the person (Va. Code § 18.2-95) or even a misdemeanor assault, depending on the evidence and the defendant’s history. This requires challenging the prosecution’s case on the essential elements of force and intent.
What are common defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal (claim of right), absence of force or intimidation, and challenging the legality of police identification procedures. An attorney may also file motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure.
Do I need a lawyer for a robbery preliminary hearing?
Yes. The preliminary hearing is a critical stage where the defense can cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses and challenge probable cause. A successful challenge can result in the felony charge being dismissed before it reaches Circuit Court, making early legal representation essential.
What should I do if I am arrested for robbery?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a robbery defense lawyer Virginia Beach as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protecting your rights during questioning and bail proceedings.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Virginia Beach and family law matters. For an overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.