A robbery accusation in Texas is among the most serious property-related crimes. Unlike theft, robbery involves force or threats against another person during the act of taking property. Because of the violent element, robbery is prosecuted as a felony and can result in years in prison, massive fines, and a permanent criminal record.
At the Napier Law Firm, Attorneys George Napier and Monica Cooper Napier defend clients facing robbery and aggravated robbery charges in Harris County, Montgomery County, Fort Bend County, Galveston County, and the greater Houston area. With years of criminal defense experience, our firm aggressively investigates the facts, challenges the prosecution’s case, and fights for the best possible outcome.
How Texas Defines Robbery
Under Texas Penal Code §29.02, robbery occurs if, in the course of committing theft, a person:
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another person.
- Intentionally or knowingly threatens or places another in fear of imminent bodily injury or death.
Aggravated Robbery
Defined under Texas Penal Code §29.03, aggravated robbery occurs when, in addition to the above, the defendant:
- Uses or exhibits a deadly weapon.
- Causes serious bodily injury.
- Targets a disabled person or person 65 years or older.
Penalties for Robbery in Texas
The severity of robbery penalties depends on the charge:
- Robbery (Second-Degree Felony) – 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
- Aggravated Robbery (First-Degree Felony) – 5 to 99 years or life in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Collateral Consequences of a Robbery Conviction
- Permanent felony record.
- Barriers to employment and housing.
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens.
- Professional license denials for nurses, teachers, or other licensed workers.
- Restrictions on firearm ownership and voting rights.
Robbery vs. Theft vs. Burglary
- Theft – Unlawfully taking property without consent, but without force.
- Burglary – Entering a building or habitation without consent and with intent to commit a crime.
- Robbery – Theft plus force or threat against a person.
These distinctions matter. For example, what begins as a shoplifting accusation can escalate into robbery if loss-prevention staff claim force or resistance occurred.
Defense Strategies for Robbery Charges
At The Napier Law Firm, we tailor each defense to the facts. Common strategies include:
- Alibi – Proving the defendant was not at the scene.
- Lack of Intent – Showing no intent to threaten, injure, or commit theft.
- Mistaken Identity – Challenging eyewitness testimony or unreliable surveillance.
- Duress/Coercion – Defendant acted under threat or compulsion.
- Insufficient Evidence – Prosecutors must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Illegal Search or Arrest – Suppressing evidence obtained in violation of constitutional rights.
What to Expect in Robbery Cases
Robbery cases are handled in district courts. After an arrest:
- Bail will be set, often at high amounts.
- The case may be presented to a grand jury for indictment.
- Discovery will involve witness statements, surveillance footage, and forensic reports.
- Trial preparation includes challenging prosecution witnesses and negotiating plea deals where appropriate.
Attorneys George Napier and Monica Cooper Napier understand local prosecutors and court procedures in Harris County, Montgomery County, Fort Bend County, Galveston County, and the greater Houston area, which is critical in building a successful defense.