Robbery Lawyer Westchester County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A robbery charge in Westchester County is a serious felony under New York Penal Law § 160.00, carrying severe penalties. If you are accused, you need a dedicated robbery lawyer Westchester County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Our firm, founded in 1997, has extensive experience defending clients in Westchester County Criminal Court and Supreme Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Westchester County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
New York Robbery Law and 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 Westchester County must understand these nuances to build an effective defense. The charges range from Third-Degree Robbery (a class D felony) to First-Degree Robbery (a class B violent felony).
For an armed robbery defense lawyer Westchester County, the presence of a firearm or other dangerous weapon immediately increases the charge to at least Robbery in the Second Degree under PL § 160.10(2)(b). This is a class C violent felony with mandatory prison time.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, review New York Penal Law § 160.00 (official NY Senate site). Court procedures and information can be found at the Westchester County Courts website.
Westchester County Court Process for Robbery Charges
In Westchester County, robbery cases follow a specific path. Misdemeanor theft cases start in Criminal Court, but robbery felonies are handled by the Westchester County Supreme Court Criminal Term after a grand jury indictment. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most non-violent felonies, but armed robbery and other violent felonies are still bail-eligible, meaning you could be held pretrial.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea. Bail arguments are heard here.
- Grand Jury: For felony robbery, the prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury to secure an indictment.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors occurred.
- Plea Negotiations: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. Your lawyer will work to have charges reduced or secure a favorable plea offer.
- Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial in Supreme Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will be imposed by the judge, often involving state prison time.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Westchester County
In Westchester County, robbery penalties are severe and depend on the degree, with mandatory prison sentences for armed robbery and higher-degree charges.
| Offense (NY PL §) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Post-Release Supervision |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery 3rd (§ 160.05) | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | 5 years |
| Robbery 2nd (§ 160.10) – Armed | Class C Violent Felony | 3.5 to 15 years (mandatory min.) | Up to $15,000 | 5 years |
| Robbery 1st (§ 160.15) | Class B Violent Felony | 5 to 25 years | Up to $30,000 | 5 years |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Robbery Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, we have the depth to handle serious felony cases. Our approach is direct and focused on the details of your case. We serve clients across Westchester County, including White Plains, Yonkers, and New Rochelle.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local results are proprietary, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We apply this extensive experience to every robbery case in Westchester County, whether defending against petit larceny accusations or serious armed robbery charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Westchester County Robbery Defense Lawyers
Our New York location serves clients throughout Westchester County, including White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, Scarsdale, and Rye. We are accessible via I-87, I-287, and the Taconic State Parkway.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between robbery and theft in New York?
Yes, there is a major difference. Theft (larceny) involves taking property without force. Robbery, under NY Penal Law § 160.00, is forcibly stealing property. The use or threat of immediate force makes it robbery, a felony, while simple theft can be a misdemeanor.
Does New York have cash bail for robbery charges?
It depends. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most non-violent felonies. However, armed robbery and other violent felonies are still bail-eligible. The court in Westchester County can set cash bail or bond for these charges.
What is an ACD and is it available for robbery?
No. An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is generally not available for felony robbery charges. ACDs are typically for first-time, low-level misdemeanors or violations. A robbery charge requires a much more aggressive defense strategy.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the evidence. A skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Westchester County can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a felony robbery charge to a lesser offense like petit larceny (a misdemeanor) if the evidence of force is weak or there are identification issues.
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 Westchester County from our firm as soon as possible at (888) 437-7747 for 24/7 guidance.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.