DC armed robbery attorney

Representing Individuals in Washington, DC Facing Armed Robbery or Weapon-Related Theft Allegations.

Robbery is a serious DC felony charge. If you have been arrested on suspicion of robbery or armed robbery, you should contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. You should not answer any questions that the police may ask. You have a right to remain silent, but it is up to you to exercise that right.

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Jason Kalafat, Esq.

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Facing Robbery Charges in Washington, DC

Being charged with robbery in Washington, DC, can have life-changing consequences. Robbery is a felony offense, and unlike theft, it involves force, violence, or intimidation. Because of this, courts and prosecutors treat these cases with particular seriousness.

If you or a loved one is accused, the most important step is to contact a DC robbery lawyer right away. Early legal representation helps protect your rights, ensures that evidence is reviewed properly, and provides guidance through every stage of the process.

What Counts as Robbery in Washington, DC

Robbery is defined in DC Code § 22-2801 as unlawfully taking property from another person, or in their immediate presence, by force, violence, or intimidation.

To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove that:

The accused took property belonging to another.
The property was taken directly from the victim or within their reach.
Force, threats, or intimidation were used.
The accused intended to permanently deprive the victim of the property.

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Attempted robbery, under § 22-2802, applies when someone takes a substantial step toward committing robbery but does not complete the act. Although the penalties may be lower, an attempt is still a felony offense with significant consequences.

Armed Robbery Charges & Elements

Robbery becomes even more serious when charged as armed robbery. Under DC Code § 22-4502, committing robbery “while armed” with a firearm, knife, or other dangerous weapon brings enhanced penalties.

To prove armed robbery, prosecutors must show that:

The defendant committed or attempted to commit a robbery.
A firearm, knife, or other dangerous weapon was present.
The defendant knew or should have known they were armed.

Importantly, the weapon does not need to be displayed or used. Simply carrying it can trigger the “while armed” enhancement. Because of this, sentences can extend to 30 years or more in Washington, DC.

Robbery Penalties & Sentencing in Washington, DC

A conviction for robbery can result in severe criminal penalties and lasting personal consequences:

Unarmed robbery: 2 to 15 years in prison under § 22-2801.
Armed robbery: Up to 30 years in prison under § 22-4502, sometimes with mandatory minimum terms.
Fines and restitution: Courts may impose significant financial penalties and repayment to the victim.
Probation or parole: In limited cases, supervised release may be ordered with strict conditions.

Beyond the courtroom, a robbery conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can restrict employment, housing, licensing, and education. For non-citizens, felony convictions may also lead to serious immigration consequences.

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Robbery Legal Process & Defense Strategies in Washington, DC

The DC Legal Process

Robbery cases often move through these stages:

Arrest: Law enforcement takes a suspect into custody.
Arraignment: Charges are formally filed, and bail or release conditions are set.
Pre-trial motions: Attorneys may challenge evidence or request suppression.
Trial: A judge or jury decides whether the prosecution proved its case.
Sentencing: If convicted, penalties are imposed.

Defense Strategies

Common defense strategies may include:

Mistaken identity: Eyewitness testimony is often unreliable.
Lack of force or intimidation: If the element of threat is missing, robbery may not be established.
Constitutional violations: Evidence can be excluded if seized unlawfully.
Challenging armed allegations: Prosecutors must prove the weapon was knowingly carried.

A DC robbery lawyer familiar with Superior Court proceedings can identify the strongest defenses for your circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robbery Charges in DC

What’s the difference between robbery and theft?

Robbery involves threats or violence; theft does not.

What are the penalties for robbery in DC?

Unarmed robbery carries 2–15 years in prison; armed robbery may result in up to 30 years.

Can robbery charges be reduced?

Sometimes charges may be reduced to theft or a lesser offense, depending on evidence and negotiations.

Is probation possible for robbery?

In rare cases, but outcomes depend on the judge, the facts, and sentencing guidelines.

Why Work With a DC Robbery Lawyer

Robbery cases in Washington, DC are complex and carry serious penalties. A DC robbery lawyer understands how prosecutors approach these charges, what evidence the government must prove, and how to identify weaknesses in the case. Having counsel ensures that your rights are protected and that you are not navigating Superior Court procedures alone.

Contact Scrofano Law, PC for Help

At Scrofano Law, PC, we know how stressful a robbery arrest can be and the uncertainty it brings. Our attorneys are familiar with the DC Superior Court system and work tirelessly to evaluate defenses, challenge evidence, and guide clients through every stage of their case.

Contact us today or complete our online form to schedule a consultation with Scrofano Law, PC.

202-630-0926

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