In Massachusetts, robbery is defined as the unlawful taking of property from another person by force or threat of force. This crime is codified under Mass. General Laws Chapter 265, Section 17, which states:
“Whoever, being armed with a dangerous weapon, assaults another and robs, steals or takes from his person money or other property which may be the subject of larceny…”
Robbery is distinct from larceny in that it involves confrontation with the victim and the use or threat of violence.
To secure a conviction for robbery in Massachusetts, the prosecution must establish the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
These elements are critical in differentiating robbery from other theft-related offenses.
Robbery is a serious felony in Massachusetts, with penalties varying based on specific circumstances:
These penalties are outlined in Mass. General Laws Chapter 265, Section 17.
With years of specialized experience, The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson has established itself as the go-to Boston criminal defense attorney in Massachusetts.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
Office Hours
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24/7 Support
Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm
Facing robbery charges in Massachusetts is a dire situation that demands immediate action. The consequences are severe, and the legal system is unforgiving. Delaying your response can result in lengthy imprisonment, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of your freedom.
Do not underestimate the seriousness of these charges. Every moment counts, and the prosecution is building its case against you as we speak. Secure a defense attorney who knows the Massachusetts legal system inside and out. Your future is on the line—take control now.
Robbery involves taking property directly from a person through force or threat, whereas larceny involves unlawful taking without direct confrontation.
Yes, unarmed robbery, which involves force or intimidation without a weapon, is still a serious felony offense.
A dangerous weapon can be any object that, when used offensively, is capable of causing serious injury or death.
Yes, subsequent offenses, especially those involving firearms or disguises, carry mandatory minimum sentences.
Depending on the circumstances, charges may be reduced through plea negotiations or if evidence supports a lesser offense.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support
Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02108 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links