Robbery is a serious crime in Texas, and if you’re facing charges, you’re probably wondering, “How long could I go to jail?” It’s an understandable question, especially considering that Texas is known for its tough stance on crime. The penalties for robbery can be severe, and the length of jail time depends on several factors. Read on and reach out to a seasoned Dallas robbery lawyer from our legal team to learn more about the penalties for robbery and how we can help you fight them. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What Is Considered Robbery in Texas?

In Texas, robbery is defined under Section 29.02 of the Texas Penal Code. A person commits robbery if, while committing theft, they intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another or threaten or place someone in fear of imminent bodily harm or death. It’s important to understand that robbery is different from theft; theft involves taking someone’s property without their consent, while robbery adds the element of harm or the threat of harm.

Texas law takes robbery very seriously because of the potential danger it presents to victims. When someone is physically hurt or threatened during the commission of a theft, the crime becomes much more than just a property offense—it becomes a violent crime.

What Factors Affect the Length of Jail Time for Robbery?

The amount of time someone can go to jail for robbery in Texas depends on several factors. These include whether the crime is classified as a robbery or an aggravated robbery and the specific circumstances of the offense.

  • Robbery: A conviction for robbery in Texas is typically classified as a second-degree felony. This can result in a prison sentence ranging from 2 to 20 years. Along with the potential jail time, a person convicted of robbery may also face fines of up to $10,000. However, a judge will consider factors such as your criminal history, the severity of the injuries caused, and whether you used a weapon when determining the length of the sentence.
  • Aggravated Robbery: If the robbery involves more serious factors, such as using or displaying a deadly weapon, causing serious bodily injury, or targeting a person who is elderly or disabled, the charge could be elevated to aggravated robbery. Aggravated robbery is classified as a first-degree felony in Texas, which carries much harsher penalties. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of 5 to 99 years or even life in prison. The severity of this penalty underscores the seriousness of committing a violent act against particularly vulnerable individuals or using a weapon during the crime.

Can I Avoid Jail Time for Robbery in Texas?

While the potential for significant jail time is real, it may be possible to avoid prison depending on the specifics of your case. In some situations, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea deal or argue for a reduced sentence. For first-time offenders, probation may be an option. Probation, also known as community supervision, allows the offender to serve their sentence outside of prison, under strict court-ordered conditions.

To qualify for probation, certain factors will come into play. The court may consider whether you have a criminal record, the degree of harm caused to the victim, and whether you’re genuinely remorseful for your actions. However, aggravated robbery convictions are much less likely to result in probation. Texas law often imposes mandatory minimums for violent crimes, which can limit the court’s ability to offer probation or leniency in aggravated cases.