Robbery Lawyer Virginia Beach — What Are Your Defense 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 in Virginia Beach General District and Circuit Courts.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery is defined in Virginia as the taking of personal property, with the intent to steal, from another person or in their presence, against their will, by violence or intimidation. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-58, classifies it as a felony. The use of a firearm or other weapon elevates the charge to armed robbery under § 18.2-53.1, which carries mandatory minimum prison sentences. All robbery cases in Virginia Beach originate in the Virginia Beach General District Court for preliminary hearings before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate who sets bond. For robbery, secured bond is typical.
- General District Court Hearing: Your case starts here for a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If probable cause is found, the case is certified to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for formal arraignment.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If not, a jury trial will be scheduled.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia’s felony sentencing guidelines.
In Virginia Beach, robbery is a felony carrying 5 years to life imprisonment. Armed robbery carries mandatory minimum sentences starting at 3 years for a firearm.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Felony | 5 years – life | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Permanent violent felony record; loss of firearm rights; difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Armed Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Felony | Mandatory minimum 3-5 years for firearm use, plus underlying robbery sentence. | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Same as robbery, with enhanced parole eligibility rules. |
| Attempted Robbery | Felony | Punishable as a Class 5 felony (1-10 years, or up to 12 months at jury discretion). | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Robbery Charges
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Virginia Beach, we have documented results across all criminal practice areas. Our defense strategy for robbery charges focuses on challenging the prosecution’s proof of intent, identity, and the use of force or intimidation. An armed robbery defense lawyer Virginia Beach from our team, such as former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, uses his law enforcement insight to dissect arrest procedures and evidence collection.
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
Case Results Approach
Our approach to robbery defense involves immediate investigation. We scrutinize eyewitness identification procedures, search for alibi evidence, and challenge the legality of any searches or seizures. For instance, in a prior larceny case, attorney Mr. Sris successfully argued for a charge reduction based on lack of evidence for the required intent. 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 the Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 44. We provide representation for Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Virginia Beach Robbery Defense FAQs
What is the difference between robbery and larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is force or intimidation. Larceny (theft) is taking property without force. Robbery involves taking property from a person or in their presence by violence, threat, or intimidation, making it a far more serious felony.
Can a robbery charge be reduced in Virginia Beach?
It depends. A skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Virginia Beach may negotiate a reduction to a lesser offense like grand larceny or assault, depending on the evidence, the defendant’s background, and the specific facts. Success often hinges on challenging the proof of violence or intimidation.
What are the defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal (claim of right), alibi, insufficient evidence of force or intimidation, and constitutional violations like an unlawful stop or seizure. An armed robbery defense lawyer Virginia Beach can also challenge weapon identification and related forensic evidence.
Is robbery a federal crime?
No. Robbery is typically a state crime. However, robbing a federally insured bank or committing a robbery that crosses state lines can lead to federal charges under statutes like the Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951).
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 lawyer Virginia Beach as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protecting your rights during questioning and bail hearings.
Related Legal Services in Virginia Beach
If you are facing other charges, our firm provides full representation. Learn more about our services as a Virginia Beach DUI lawyer or a Virginia criminal defense lawyer. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County.