Robbery Lawyer Staten Island — What Are Your Defense Options?
Robbery in Staten Island is a serious felony under New York Penal Law § 160.00, carrying potential state prison time. If you are charged, you need a robbery lawyer Staten Island who understands the Richmond County Supreme Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for robbery and armed robbery charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Richmond County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
New York Robbery Law & Penalties
Robbery in New York is defined in Penal Law Article 160 as forcibly stealing property. The severity escalates based on factors like use of a weapon or causing injury. A robbery charge defense lawyer Staten Island must handle these classifications, which range from Third-Degree Robbery (a class D felony) to First-Degree Robbery (a class B violent felony). An armed robbery defense lawyer Staten Island specifically handles cases where a deadly weapon or firearm is involved, which carries mandatory prison sentences.
For official statute details, refer to the New York Penal Law § 160.00 (official NY Senate site). Court procedures for Richmond County (Staten Island) are managed by the Richmond County Supreme Court.
- Initial Arrest & Arraignment: You will be processed and arraigned, where charges are formally read. Bail may be set.
- Grand Jury Presentation: For felony robbery, the District Attorney presents evidence to a grand jury for indictment.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Plea Negotiations: Most cases are resolved through negotiation for a reduced charge or favorable plea.
- Trial: If no plea is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in Supreme Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on statutory guidelines and your record.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Staten Island
In Richmond County (Staten Island), robbery charges carry severe penalties including mandatory state prison for armed robbery.
| Offense (NY Penal Law) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Post-Release Supervision |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery 3rd (§ 160.05) | Class D Felony | 2-7 years | Up to $5,000 | 2.5-3 years |
| Robbery 2nd (§ 160.10) | Class C Violent Felony | 3.5-15 years | Up to $5,000 | 3.5-5 years |
| Robbery 1st (§ 160.15) | Class B Violent Felony | 5-25 years | Up to $30,000 | 5 years |
| Armed Robbery (with firearm) | Class B Violent Felony | Mandatory Min. 5-25 years | Up to $30,000 | 5 years |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Staten Island Robbery Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we fight aggressively for every client. We understand the high stakes of a robbery charge and the specific procedures of the Richmond County Supreme Court at 18 Richmond Terrace.
Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific local results vary, this extensive experience informs our defense strategies for every robbery charge defense lawyer Staten Island case we handle.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New York
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New York location serves clients in Richmond County (Staten Island) and the surrounding areas, including the neighborhoods of St. George, New Dorp, Tottenville, Great Kills, Stapleton, and Port Richmond. We are accessible via I-278 and other major routes.
Frequently Asked Questions: Robbery Charges in Staten Island
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in New York?
Robbery is forcible theft. Armed robbery involves displaying what appears to be a firearm or other deadly weapon during the crime, which significantly increases the charge severity and mandatory prison time under NY Penal Law § 160.15.
Does New York have cash bail for robbery charges?
Yes. While 2020 reforms eliminated cash bail for many non-violent crimes, robbery is a qualifying offense where judges in Richmond County can still set cash bail or bond due to its violent felony classification.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled robbery lawyer Staten Island may negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge like petit larceny or attempted robbery, depending on the evidence, your history, and the facts. This is a common focus of pre-indictment negotiations.
What are the main defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal, claim of right (believing the property was yours), duress, or challenging the “forcible” element. An armed robbery defense lawyer Staten Island may also contest weapon identification or possession.
How long does a robbery case take in Staten Island?
Felony robbery cases in Richmond County Supreme Court typically take 6 to 18 months from arrest to resolution, depending on case complexity, evidence, and whether it goes to trial. The speedy trial rule (CPL § 30.30) requires the prosecution to be ready within 6 months for felonies.
For more information on criminal defense in New York, see our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist with related matters in Staten Island like Family Law and Immigration.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.