Robbery Charges – Peel Region Criminal Defence Lawyers

A robbery charge is one of the most serious criminal offences in Canada. Unlike theft, robbery involves violence or the threat of violence, making it a violent crime punishable by lengthy prison sentences—even for first-time offenders.

At GS Associates, we provide strong, experienced defence to individuals charged with robbery and related violent offences in Mississauga, Brampton, and throughout the Peel Region. We fight to protect your freedom, reputation, and future from the very first moment you are charged.

What is Robbery?

Under Section 343 of the Criminal Code of Canada, robbery is defined as:
“The use of violence, threats of violence, or intimidation to steal property, or attempting to steal while using violence or threats.”
A robbery charge can result from:

• Using force to take someone’s wallet, phone, or purse
  
• Threatening someone with a weapon during a theft
  
• Assaulting someone while attempting to steal
  
• Committing a break-in and confronting someone during the act
  
• Using an imitation weapon or making verbal threats to induce fear
  

No weapon or actual harm is required—the perception of force or threat is enough.

Penalties for Robbery

Robbery is always treated as an indictable offence and carries severe penalties:

Basic Robbery

• Maximum sentence: Life imprisonment
  
• Minimum sentence: None (unless a firearm is used)

Robbery with a Firearm

• Minimum sentence: 4 years imprisonment
  
• Maximum: Life imprisonment
  
• Firearm-related robbery charges are prosecuted extremely aggressively under Canadian law

How GS Associates Defends Robbery Charges

Our legal team examines every detail to build a strong and effective defence. We focus on:

• Identification issues – Was the accused properly identified?
  
• Was force or threat actually used, or was this a case of misunderstanding?
  
• Was the intent to steal present, or was it another type of altercation?
  
• Challenging witness credibility and inconsistencies
  
• Challenging the legality of arrest, search, or evidence collection (e.g., Charter violations)
  
• Exploring defences such as mistaken identity, duress, or lack of intent
  

We may also negotiate with the Crown for lesser charges (such as theft or assault), especially for first-time offenders or where the evidence is weak.

Youth & First-Time Offenders

Robbery charges involving young persons (under 18) or first-time adult offenders may be eligible for diversion programs, community sentences, or rehabilitative options instead of jail—depending on the circumstances and legal strategy.

Charged with Robbery? Contact Us Immediately.

If you or someone you care about is facing robbery charges, do not wait. Robbery is a violent crime, and the consequences—jail, a criminal record, immigration problems—can be permanent.

Call GS Associates now for a confidential consultation. We will act quickly to assess the evidence, protect your rights, and begin building a solid defence.