Robbery and Aggravated Robbery Defense in Chicago

720 ILCS 5/18-1 – Illinois Robbery and Aggravated Robbery Law

If you or a loved one is facing robbery or aggravated robbery charges in Chicago, it’s critical to understand the law and your legal rights under 720 ILCS 5/18-1. These are serious felony charges that can result in significant prison time and lifelong consequences. As a Chicago criminal defense attorney with experience handling violent crime cases, I provide aggressive legal representation aimed at protecting your freedom and future.

What Is Robbery Under Illinois Law?

According to 720 ILCS 5/18-1(a), robbery occurs when someone knowingly takes property (excluding motor vehicles) from the person or presence of another by the use of force or by threatening the imminent use of force.

Key elements prosecutors must prove include:

• You took property that did not belong to you;
• The property was taken directly from a person or within their immediate reach;
• Force or the threat of force was used during the act.

Robbery is a Class 2 felony, which is punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison. However, the charge can be elevated to a Class 1 felony (4 to 15 years in prison) under specific circumstances:

• The victim was 60 years of age or older,
• The victim had a physical disability,
• The robbery occurred in a school, daycare, or place of worship.

What Is Aggravated Robbery in Illinois?

Under 720 ILCS 5/18-1(b), a person may be charged with aggravated robbery in two ways:

1. Implying You Are Armed

If you commit a robbery and verbally or physically indicate that you are armed with a firearm or other dangerous weapon (like a knife, club, or ax), you can be charged with aggravated robbery—even if it turns out you weren’t actually armed. The perception of a threat is enough to escalate the offense.

2. Administering a Controlled Substance

Aggravated robbery also occurs when someone knowingly administers a controlled substance (by injection, inhalation, ingestion, etc.) to the victim without consent and not for medical purposes, and then takes their property.

Aggravated robbery is a Class 1 felony, with a sentencing range of 4 to 15 years in prison, and it is considered a violent crime in Illinois.

Robbery vs. Armed Robbery: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to note the distinction:

• Robbery (720 ILCS 5/18-1) involves force or threat of force.
• Armed Robbery (720 ILCS 5/18-2) involves the actual possession of a dangerous weapon, such as a gun or knife.

If the prosecution can prove you actually carried a firearm or other weapon during the robbery, they may seek armed robbery charges, which are Class X felonies—the most serious felony classification in Illinois.

Defending Robbery and Aggravated Robbery Charges in Chicago

Facing these charges in Cook County or anywhere in the Chicago area demands a skilled and strategic defense. Depending on the facts, we may argue:

• Mistaken identity – You were wrongly identified by a witness;
• Lack of intent – You did not knowingly use force or threaten force;
• No actual or implied weapon – In aggravated robbery cases, we can challenge the claim that you indicated you were armed;
• Violation of your rights – We examine whether law enforcement followed proper procedures, including lawful search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment.

As a seasoned Chicago criminal defense lawyer, I work to have charges dismissed, reduced, or to secure favorable plea agreements or trial outcomes when necessary.

Arrested for Robbery or Aggravated Robbery in Chicago? Call Now.

A robbery conviction in Illinois can destroy your reputation, job prospects, and freedom. If you’ve been charged under 720 ILCS 5/18-1, don’t wait. You need a tough, experienced, and aggressive criminal defense attorney by your side.

Call Attorney Phil Haddad now at 708-833-3505 for a free and confidential consultation.
Let’s start building your defense and fighting for your future—before it’s too late.