Massachusetts Laws on Armed Robbery: What You Need to Know

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 05/30/2025

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Armed Robbery is a serious offense in Massachusetts, but what are the elements of this charge? While this blog will attempt to break down this complicated topic, if you or a loved one are facing Armed Robbery charges, you should seek legal counsel. A good lawyer will be able to give you personalized advice and information, as well as the best ways for you to move forward with your case.

What is Armed Robbery?

In Massachusetts, for the prosecution to secure a conviction of armed robbery, they must prove that the defendant took property from another person by force or threat of force while armed with a dangerous weapon.

Additionally, there is no statute of limitation in Massachusetts for robbery charges. This means there is no time limit for prosecuting these cases, and charges can be filed years after the alleged incident.

What Counts as “Armed”?

A dangerous weapon can be any manner of items, ranging from a firearm or knife to any object used in a threatening manner, including an object that we wouldn’t normally consider dangerous. Massachusetts interprets dangerous weapons broadly, but the key element is the use of an object in a threatening manner.

For example, fake guns could be considered a dangerous weapon, as they only need to prove that the victim felt threatened, not that the weapon was actually functional. See the second frequently asked question below for more examples and details.

What are the Penalties of Armed Robbery?

Armed Robbery is a serious felony, and it carries the possibility of severe consequences. A conviction carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years in state prison, with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Parole is also not available until at least 5 years have been served.

There are also enhanced penalties for specific circumstances. If a defendant is convicted of armed robbery while masked (or disguised), this adds an additional 2 years minimum to their sentence. Using a firearm to commit armed robbery also triggers harsher federal penalties that may apply alongside state charges.

Attempted Armed Robbery

Even unsuccessful attempts at robbery carry serious consequences, though typically less than “completed” robbery incidents. Simply brandishing a weapon while demanding someone’s property can trigger armed robbery charges.

Seek Legal Representation Today

Armed robbery is a serious charge that carries severe penalties, including in some cases life imprisonment. If you or a loved one are facing these charges, it is important to seek legal counsel right away. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we have years of experience defending clients from armed robbery and other similar charges. When your life is on the line, you want the best legal counsel you can get. Call or text us today at 617-295-7500, we are ready to help and won’t stop fighting until justice is served.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What's the difference between armed robbery and regular robbery in Massachusetts?

The key difference is the presence of a dangerous weapon. Regular robbery involves the taking of property by force or threat of force without a dangerous weapon. It carries no mandatory minimum. Armed robbery is similar in that it involves taking property by force or threat of force, but the perpetrator is also armed with a dangerous weapon. Also it carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison.

Q: Can I be charged with armed robbery if the weapon wasn't real or wasn't loaded?

Yes. Massachusetts law doesn’t require the weapon to be real, functional, or loaded. If you use a fake gun, unloaded firearm, toy weapon, or even an object that appears to be a weapon (like pointing your finger in your pocket to simulate a gun), you can still be charged with armed robbery. What matters is whether the victim reasonably believed you had a dangerous weapon. The courts have even upheld cases where the alleged perpetrator claimed to have a weapon they didn’t possess.

Q: If I'm charged with armed robbery, will I definitely go to prison for at least 5 years?

If you are convicted of armed robbery, yes. The mandatory minimum for this charge is 5 years in prison. However, conviction isn’t automatic, and there is a big difference between being charged with a crime and being convicted. There are several defense strategies that a good lawyer can employ on your behalf, including questioning whether there was in fact a dangerous weapon involved or negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges. This is why immediate consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial.