Florida Statute §812.13 | Classification: Second-Degree Felony to Life Felony
What Is This Charge?
Robbery in Florida is the taking of money or other property from a person by force, violence, assault, or by putting that person in fear. What distinguishes robbery from theft is the use of force, threat, or intimidation against another person during the taking.
Penalties & Fines
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Robbery without a weapon: Second-Degree Felony — up to 15 years, $10,000 fine
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Robbery with a weapon (not a firearm): First-Degree Felony — up to 30 years
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Robbery with a firearm or deadly weapon: Life Felony — up to life in prison
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10-20-Life applies: 10-year minimum if firearm displayed, 20-year minimum if fired
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Home Invasion Robbery: First-Degree Felony with potential life sentence; if armed: Life Felony
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Carjacking: First-Degree Felony; if armed: Life Felony
Additional Consequences
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Permanent felony record
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Restitution to the victim
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Loss of all civil rights including voting and firearm possession
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Immigration consequences — likely deportation for non-citizens
Possible Defenses
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Mistaken identity — eyewitness misidentification is a leading cause of wrongful convictions
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No force or fear was used during the taking
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Claim of right defense — you had a right to the property taken
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Alibi — you were not at the scene
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Insufficient or unreliable evidence
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Coerced confession or unlawful interrogation
Why You Need a Defense Attorney
Robbery is among the most serious felonies under Florida law, with sentences that can reach life in prison. These cases often rest heavily on eyewitness identification and victim testimony — both of which can be challenged. An attorney will immediately investigate the evidence, review surveillance footage, and build the strongest possible defense.
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