Armed Robbery

If you or a loved one have been charged with the serious crime of armed robbery in Illinois, you need an experienced, skilled, and aggressive criminal defense attorney by your side. Armed robbery is a severe criminal offense that carries harsh penalties, including long-term imprisonment and a permanent criminal record. Attorney James Dimeas has decades of experience successfully defending clients charged with armed robbery and other violent crimes. With a deep understanding of Illinois criminal law and a track record of success in courtrooms across the state, James Dimeas is the defense attorney you need to fight these serious charges and protect your rights.

Understanding Armed Robbery in Illinois

Under Illinois law, armed robbery is defined as the act of taking property from another person, through the use of force or the threat of force, while being armed with a dangerous weapon. This is governed by 720 ILCS 5/18-2 of the Illinois Criminal Code. The prosecution must prove three key elements to secure a conviction for armed robbery:

1. Theft of Property: The defendant must have taken property from another person without consent.
2. Use of Force or Threat: The defendant must have used force or threatened to use force during the theft.
3. Possession of a Weapon: The defendant must have been armed with a dangerous weapon during the commission of the crime.

Types of Weapons That Can Lead to Armed Robbery Charges

The presence of a weapon significantly increases the severity of a robbery charge. Under Illinois law, the following weapons can elevate a robbery to armed robbery:

• Firearms
• Knives
• Bludgeons
• Any object that appears to be a firearm or dangerous weapon

Even if the weapon is not functional or loaded, the mere appearance of a dangerous weapon can lead to armed robbery charges.

Penalties for Armed Robbery in Illinois

Armed robbery is a Class X felony in Illinois, which is the most serious category of crime short of murder. A conviction carries the following penalties:

• Minimum Prison Sentence: 6 to 30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
• No Probation: Class X felonies are non-probationable, meaning a prison sentence is mandatory upon conviction.

Enhancements for Armed Robbery Charges

Certain factors can enhance the penalties for an armed robbery conviction:

1. Use of a Firearm:
   • If a firearm is present during the commission of the robbery, an additional 15 years is added to the sentence.
   • If the firearm is discharged, an additional 20 years is added.
   • If someone is injured or killed by the discharge of the firearm, an additional 25 years to life is added.
2. Victim Status:
   • If the victim is a senior citizen, disabled person, or law enforcement officer, penalties can be enhanced.
3. Location:
   • Robberies committed in protected areas, such as schools, parks, or places of worship, may carry enhanced penalties.
4. Criminal History:
   • Defendants with prior convictions may face longer sentences.

Possible Defenses to Armed Robbery Charges

Attorney James Dimeas has successfully defended numerous clients charged with armed robbery. Some of the most common and effective defenses include:

1. Mistaken Identity:
   • Eyewitness misidentification is a leading cause of wrongful convictions. If you were mistakenly identified, James Dimeas will work to challenge the reliability of eyewitness testimony.
2. Lack of Evidence:
   • The prosecution must prove each element of armed robbery beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is insufficient, the charges should be dismissed.
3. Alibi:
   • If you were somewhere else at the time of the robbery, presenting evidence of an alibi can lead to an acquittal.
4. Coerced Confession:
   • If your confession was obtained through coercion, intimidation, or without proper Miranda warnings, James Dimeas will move to suppress it and have it thrown out of Court.
5. No Weapon:
   • If the prosecution cannot prove that you were armed with a dangerous weapon, the charge may be reduced to robbery, which carries lesser penalties.

Why You Need a Skilled Armed Robbery Defense Attorney

Armed robbery charges are aggressively prosecuted in Illinois, and a conviction can result in decades behind bars. Attorney James Dimeas understands the complexities of these cases and knows how to develop a strong, personalized defense strategy for each client. From meticulously analyzing evidence to cross-examining witnesses and negotiating with prosecutors, he will leave no stone unturned in your defense.

Key Reasons to Choose James Dimeas:

• Decades of Experience: Over 30 years of defending clients in armed robbery and violent crime cases.
• Proven Track Record: A history of successful outcomes for clients facing serious felony charges.
• Personalized Attention: James Dimeas treats each case with the care, dedication, and attention it deserves.
• Relentless Advocacy: A tireless advocate for justice, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Consequences of an Armed Robbery Conviction Beyond Prison Time

A conviction for armed robbery can have long-term repercussions that extend beyond prison time. These collateral consequences include:

• A permanent criminal record that may limit employment opportunities.
• Loss of the right to possess firearms.
• Difficulties obtaining housing and educational opportunities.
• Damage to personal and professional relationships.

Take Immediate Action: Contact Attorney James Dimeas Today

If you are facing armed robbery charges, time is of the essence. The sooner you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome. Attorney James Dimeas will immediately begin working on your case, conducting a thorough investigation, gathering evidence, and building a powerful defense strategy.

Contact us today at 847-807-7405 for a free consultation or visit my website at to learn more about how we can help you fight your armed robbery charges.

James Dimeas: Defending Your Freedom, Protecting Your Future.