Fort Myers Robbery Attorney

Defending Clients Who Are Facing Robbery Charges in Florida

In Fort Myers and throughout Lee County, robbery charges are prosecuted aggressively due to the serious nature of these offenses. Florida law defines robbery under Florida Statutes §812.13 as the taking of money or other property from a person or their custody, with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive them of the property, through the use of force, violence, assault, or putting in fear. The presence of force differentiates robbery from lesser theft crimes and often leads to harsher penalties. Lee County courts treat these accusations with the utmost gravity, making it crucial for anyone charged to understand how the local legal process operates and what rights they have under Florida law. Engaging a knowledgeable robbery attorney in Fort Myers who is familiar with local court procedures can make a significant difference in navigating the criminal justice system and developing a strong defense strategy.

If the theft of another’s property or money is committed by force, Florida’s statutes consider it a criminal act of robbery. While the specifics of a robbery charge can change depending on what was taken and how it was taken, as well as whether a deadly weapon was involved, all forms of robbery are treated as serious offenses with strict sentencing. Anyone accused of robbery should act quickly to retain a reliable robbery defense lawyer in Fort Myers.

To find out how our firm may be able to help you, contact our offices today.

Understanding Robbery Charges Under Florida Law

The Florida Statutes outline precise elements the prosecution must prove for a robbery conviction. Under Fla. Stat. §812.13, robbery involves not just the taking of property but also the use of force, violence, assault, or putting another person in fear. This distinction means that prosecutors in Fort Myers frequently pursue elevated charges if a weapon or aggravated force is alleged. The Lee County State Attorney’s Office, responsible for prosecuting such cases locally, works closely with law enforcement to build aggressive cases against the accused. If you are facing robbery charges in Lee County, understanding your legal rights and the standards required for conviction is essential. Your defense attorney should be well-versed in these nuances and the approach taken by local courts to mount a robust strategy. A robbery lawyer in Fort Myers can help clarify these complexities and advocate for you at each stage of the legal process.

Why Hire Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law?

When you consider that you may face up to life in prison if convicted of robbery, it becomes all the more evident how important your criminal defense team will be in helping you protect your future. In defending clients against robbery charges, we dedicate ourselves to a comprehensive investigation, seeking any errors or violations—no matter how small—that could undermine the prosecution's case against you. Our team’s experience as former prosecutors, as well as our established relationships with the local legal community, allows us to anticipate the prosecution’s tactics and negotiate directly on your behalf. At Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, we work closely with you throughout the process, offering strategic advice, continuous updates, and reliable guidance, so you never feel alone as your case unfolds. Our bilingual attorneys serve clients in English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility and clear communication for residents throughout Fort Myers and Lee County.

Robbery Cases We Handle

We can represent clients facing all forms of robbery charges, including:

• Armed robbery: Involves the use of a firearm, gun, or another deadly weapon in a threatening manner to take property. This is classified as a first-degree felony and may carry a life sentence upon conviction.
• Weapon crime with robbery: Involves using an object that is not inherently deadly during the commission of a robbery. This is also a first-degree felony, and sentencing may include up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 state fine.
• Simple robbery: Involves using force to take another person’s property without the use of any weapon or object. A conviction for this second-degree felony can lead to incarceration for up to 15 years and fines reaching $10,000.

The Legal Process for Robbery Cases in Fort Myers

When someone is arrested on suspicion of robbery in Fort Myers, the criminal case generally starts with an investigation by local law enforcement such as the Fort Myers Police Department or Lee County Sheriff’s Office. After an arrest, the accused will have an initial appearance—usually at the Lee County Justice Center—where bail conditions are determined. The process moves on to arraignment, where formal robbery charges are presented, and then discovery and pretrial motions. These stages allow your defense attorney to review the prosecution’s evidence, submit motions to suppress unlawfully obtained materials, and initiate dialogue with the prosecutor regarding case resolution. Courts in Fort Myers emphasize procedural rigor, so legal representation with local experience is key. At Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, we use our background as former local prosecutors and our knowledge of court procedures to anticipate the prosecution's strategies and present a well-prepared, strategic defense for our clients facing robbery allegations.

Throughout every step—from investigation to possible trial—your rights and available legal options may change. Working with a robbery lawyer in Fort Myers who understands area judges, prosecutors, and courtroom dynamics can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Our team keeps clients informed and prepared at all times, giving them the confidence to make crucial decisions about their defense and their future.

Penalties & Sentencing for Robbery in Lee County

The penalties associated with a robbery conviction in Lee County are severe and can have long-lasting consequences on your life. Robbery is always charged as a felony in Florida, with the degree depending on the use of weapons and your prior criminal record. A simple robbery—committed without a weapon—is classified as a second-degree felony and may lead to up to 15 years in prison and $10,000 in fines. If the offense involves a deadly weapon or firearm, it is prosecuted as a first-degree felony that can result in a life sentence if convicted.

Certain factors—such as whether the crime took place at a local business, if anyone sustained injuries, or if there is a history of prior convictions—can further increase the severity of sentencing in Lee County courts. Probation, restitution to the victim, and mandatory counseling may also be imposed at the judge’s discretion. Local prosecutors in Fort Myers are aggressive in seeking harsh penalties for robbery convictions. Choosing a robbery lawyer in Fort Myers who understands the tendencies and priorities of the Lee County courts is crucial to seeking case reductions, negotiating alternative sentences, or fighting for a dismissal when possible.

What Are Common Defenses to Robbery Charges?

Facing robbery charges in Lee County can be overwhelming, but several legal defenses may apply to your case. The best strategy depends on the facts, available evidence, witness statements, and the circumstances of the alleged incident. Collaborating with a skilled robbery attorney in Fort Myers enhances your opportunity to build an effective defense and protects your rights throughout the process.

Because local law enforcement agencies in Fort Myers and Lee County handle robbery cases directly, evaluating how police collected and managed the evidence is vital. By retaining a robbery lawyer in Fort Myers with experience in local law enforcement procedures, you ensure all possible weaknesses are examined—including flaws in identification methods, processing, and evidence handling. In some situations, legal representation with knowledge of local court customs can result in charge reduction or dismissal if procedural missteps or constitutional violations are discovered, especially in Fort Myers courtrooms where such issues are carefully weighed.

Misidentification & Eyewitness Issues

One of the most frequently used defenses is misidentification. Eyewitness testimony in robbery cases is particularly susceptible to error, especially if the event happened quickly or involved chaos and stress. Your Fort Myers robbery attorney can challenge the reliability of such testimony by investigating inconsistencies and flaws in the identification process.

Lack of Intent or Ownership Defense

Robbery is a specific intent crime under Florida law. Prosecutors must prove that you intended to use force or threats to deprive someone of their property. If your Fort Myers robbery lawyer demonstrates a lack of this intent or that you genuinely believed the property belonged to you, the charges may be challenged or dismissed. This nuanced defense relies on a careful review of the case facts and proper presentation in court.

Constitutional Violations & Alibi Defenses

Search and seizure violations, failure to provide Miranda warnings, or improper evidence collection can undermine the prosecution’s case. If your constitutional rights were violated at any point, your robbery attorney in Fort Myers may move to have evidence excluded or charges reduced. Additionally, an alibi defense—showing that you were elsewhere during the alleged robbery—can be a powerful rebuttal when supported by credible evidence or witness testimony.

The effectiveness of any defense depends not only on legal skill but also on local experience and relationships. At Calvo & Calvo, Attorneys at Law, our attorneys have a deep understanding of Lee County’s courts and know how to present a compelling case on your behalf.

Contact Our Robbery Lawyers in Fort Myers Today

Are you facing robbery charges? Act quickly and contact a robbery attorney in Fort Myers who can safeguard your rights and interests. These cases carry serious consequences—including harsh penalties if convicted—but with the right legal representation and comprehensive knowledge of local law, your defense has the best chance of success. A robbery lawyer in Fort Myers can guide you through the challenging process, fighting to protect your freedom and future.

 Have you been arrested or accused of robbery? Call Calvo & Calvo today at (800) 614-5138 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Fort Myers robbery attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Robbery Arrest in Fort Myers?

If you are arrested on robbery charges in Fort Myers, the most important step is to remain calm and exercise your constitutional right to remain silent. Anything you say—even seemingly innocent comments—may be used in court. Request to speak to your robbery attorney in Fort Myers immediately. The initial hours after arrest are critical, as police and prosecutors begin shaping their case, and your lawyer can intervene right away to protect your rights, address bail, and start building your defense. Do not discuss the details of your case with anyone besides your robbery lawyer, and avoid sharing information about your arrest or case on social media or with acquaintances.

How Are Robbery Charges Investigated & Prosecuted in Lee County, FL?

Robbery investigations in Lee County are managed by local agencies such as the Fort Myers Police Department and Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators typically collect surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and gather forensic evidence to build a case. If you are arrested, the Lee County State Attorney’s Office reviews the evidence and determines the formal charges. Robbery cases move through arraignments and pretrial hearings at the Lee County Justice Center. An experienced robbery lawyer in Fort Myers can work to challenge the state’s evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and provide advice about the legal process and local court expectations. Understanding local procedures and relationships can be vital for mounting a defense or securing a favorable outcome.

Can a Robbery Charge in Fort Myers Be Reduced or Dismissed?

Depending on the details of your case, a robbery charge in Fort Myers could potentially be reduced to a lesser offense or even dismissed. Contributing factors include the quality and credibility of the prosecution’s evidence, any procedural or constitutional violations by law enforcement, and your criminal history. A robbery lawyer in Fort Myers with strong local relationships and knowledge of the legal landscape can negotiate with Lee County prosecutors for outcomes such as charge reductions or dismissals, especially when supported by compelling defenses. Immediate consultation with defense counsel increases your ability to pursue the most favorable result for your situation.

Call (800) 614-5138 now or contact our firm online to schedule a consultation today.