3 Things You Need to Know About Armed Robbery Charges in Illinois

If the state of Illinois accuses you of the crime of armed robbery, you could be in very serious trouble. In fact, you could end up going to prison for a very long time. For most people accused of armed robbery, the best thing to do is contact an experienced robbery defense attorney in Chicago. This guide covers three things you need to know before you do anything.

3 Things You Need to Know About Armed Robbery Charges in Illinois

Check out these three things you should know about armed robbery charges in Illinois:

1. Armed robbery doesn’t have to take place with a gun.
2. The state of Illinois considers armed robbery a Class X felony.
3. You could go to prison for up to 30 years if you’re convicted.

Here’s a closer look at each.

Armed Robbery Fact #1: Armed Robbery Doesn’t Have to Take Place With a Gun

When most people think of armed robbery, they picture a person wielding a gun and asking a bank teller to give them cash. However, you don’t have to use a gun for the state of Illinois to charge you with and convict you of armed robbery. In fact, if you’re carrying or armed with any type of deadly weapon, such as a knife, club or anything else (including a firearm), the state may consider your offense to be armed robbery.

Related: 3 times the police can arrest you for DUI in Illinois

Armed Robbery Fact #2: The State of Illinois Considers Armed Robbery a Class X Felony

In Illinois, armed robbery is a Class X felony. These types of felonies are the most serious in the state, and a judge is required to sentence you two between 6 and 30 years in prison if you’re convicted.

Armed Robbery Fact #3: You Could Go to Prison for Up to 30 Years if You’re Convicted

In some cases, the prison sentence may be even longer than 30 years; in fact, if you are you using a firearm during the commission of the crime, you discharge a firearm, or you cause great bodily harm or death, your sentence will most likely be longer than 30 years. The court may even sentence you to serve the rest of your natural life in prison.

Related: 4 important rights all criminal defendants have in the U.S.

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