Armed Robbery – Criminal Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA
Facing Armed Robbery Charges in Pennsylvania? You Need an Experienced Defense Lawyer Immediately.
Armed robbery is one of the most serious criminal charges in Pennsylvania. If you are accused of using a weapon — or even implying that you had one — during a robbery, you may be facing decades in prison, mandatory minimum sentencing, and a permanent felony record.
At the Law Office of Mark D. Hauser, we have over 30 years of experience defending clients against violent felony charges, including armed robbery, in Philadelphia and surrounding Pennsylvania counties. These cases move fast, and the stakes are incredibly high — but we know how to fight back.
What Is Armed Robbery Under Pennsylvania Law?
In Pennsylvania, robbery is defined under 18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 3701 as the act of committing a theft while threatening or using force. When a weapon — such as a gun, knife, or even a replica — is involved, the charge becomes armed robbery, which is a first-degree felony.
You can be charged with armed robbery if prosecutors believe you:
Used or displayed a deadly weapon while committing a theft
Threatened someone with serious bodily harm to take their property
Caused or attempted to cause serious injury during the robbery
Even implied you had a weapon (e.g., keeping your hand in your pocket as if armed)
Penalties for Armed Robbery in Pennsylvania
Armed robbery is a Felony of the First Degree, punishable by:
Up to 20 years in prison
Fines up to $25,000
Mandatory minimum sentencing if a firearm was used or discharged
A permanent violent felony conviction on your criminal record
If the robbery involved injury, was committed against a senior citizen, or took place in conjunction with other felonies (e.g., carjacking, home invasion), additional penalties may apply.
Federal charges may also be filed if the crime involved interstate commerce, banks, or firearms from out-of-state.
Armed Robbery vs. Other Theft Charges
It's important to understand how armed robbery differs from other theft-related charges:
OffenseKey FactorMaximum PenaltyTheft (Larceny)No force or threatBased on value (up to 7 yrs)RobberyForce or threat of force during theftUp to 10–20 yearsArmed RobberyWeapon used or implied during robberyUp to 20 yearsAggravated AssaultIntentional serious injuryUp to 20 years
Armed robbery often includes multiple charges, such as aggravated assault, firearms violations, or conspiracy, increasing the risk of lengthy sentences.
How We Defend Armed Robbery Charges
Defending against armed robbery requires a proactive, aggressive legal strategy. We examine every aspect of the arrest, investigation, and evidence. Our defense tactics may include:
✅ Challenging eyewitness testimony – Robbery identifications are often unreliable or suggestively obtained
✅ Proving lack of weapon or intent – The prosecution must prove a deadly weapon was present or implied
✅ Alibi or mistaken identity – You were not present at the time of the alleged crime
✅ Illegal search or seizure – If law enforcement violated your rights, we may seek to suppress key evidence
✅ Negotiating for lesser charges – In some cases, we may work to reduce charges to theft or simple robbery
We also work with investigators, review surveillance footage, examine police body cam records, and challenge forensic claims whenever necessary.
Who We Represent
We represent adults and juveniles accused of:
Armed robbery of businesses or convenience stores
Robbery during drug deals
Robbery involving firearms or knives
Home invasion robberies
Group or gang-related robberies
Robbery during carjackings or assaults
We understand how Philadelphia prosecutors build these cases — and how to take them apart.
Serving Clients in Philadelphia and Beyond
We represent clients charged with robbery and firearm-related crimes in:
Philadelphia County
Montgomery County
Delaware County
Bucks County
Chester County
Whether you're facing a new charge or a parole or probation violation related to a prior robbery conviction, we’re ready to help.
Don’t Face Armed Robbery Charges Alone
Prosecutors will treat your case aggressively. You need a defense attorney with the skill and experience to protect your rights, freedom, and future.
📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, criminal defense attorney, today for a confidential case evaluation.