Contrary to popular belief, robbery and burglary are separate crimes in Tennessee.
It is essential to understand the distinctions between the two. Doing so empowers you to choose a defense strategy built around the specific charges you face.
What defines robbery?
It is the act of taking property from someone using force or intimidation. Robbery can be charged in several ways:
- Robbery: A Class C felony punishable by 3-15 years in prison involves taking property through force or fear
- Aggravated robbery: A Class B felony punishable by 8-30 years in prison involves using a deadly weapon or causing serious bodily injury
- Especially aggravated robbery: A Class A felony punished by up to 60 years in prison involves using a deadly weapon and causing serious bodily injury
In addition to incarceration, a conviction on robbery charges usually means paying tens of thousands in fines.
What is burglary?
Burglary refers to unlawfully entering a structure with the intent to commit a crime – usually theft. Specific charges include:
- Burglary: A Class E or D felony punishable by up to 12 years in prison involves entering an unopened building intending to commit a crime
- Aggravated burglary: A Class C felony punished by 3-15 years in prison involves entering a habitation intending to break the law
- Especially aggravated burglary: A Class B felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison, this involves entering a habitation and causing serious bodily injury
As with robbery, a burglary conviction will result in costly fines on top of possible incarceration.
A conviction on any of these charges can be life-altering. Talk to someone who understands the Tennessee justice system to brainstorm a defense strategy customized just for you.
