Georgia Robbery Laws

The robber. The bandit. A "stick up." We’ve seen it all before on dark, shadowy film noir movies and comic books. A masked person comes creeping down a low-lit alleyway and sticks a gun in an innocent person’s back. While this might sound familiar, robbery doesn’t always require the use of a gun or any other weapon. Georgia robbery laws penalize taking property from another person through the use or threat of force, which by definition would include an empty threat if taken seriously. Below you will find key information about the robbery laws in Georgia, including armed robbery and robbery of a pharmacy.

Robbery

Robbery occurs in Georgia when a person takes money or property from another person against that person’s will through violence, force, intimidation, or threats. This is different than burglary because here another person, i.e. the victim, must be present when criminal act happens.

Armed Robbery

Armed robbery is defined by the taking of or attempt to take something of value from another through force or threats of bodily harm, but also with the use of a weapon. You can still be punished under this statute if you use a toy gun to commit the crime.

Robbery and a Pharmacy

Georgia lawmakers have carved out a specific crime for persons who commit robbery of a pharmacy. For instance, if the person is trying to steal prescription drugs from a pharmacist, there are additional penalties in consequences.

Georgia Robbery Laws Overview

The following table provides a basic overview of Georgia’s robbery laws and penalties. Keep in mind, the law does not look kindly upon those who are convicted of armed robbery. A judge may not grant probation, stay or suspend a sentence, or defer the sentence or withhold it.

Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Additional Resources

If you have additional questions about Georgia robbery laws, click on the following links below:  

• Getting Arrested: Documents Your Attorney Will Need
• Georgia Criminal Statute of Limitations
• Georgia Criminal Laws

Charged With Robbery? Contact a Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyer

Robbery is a major felony offense that can land you in prison for a long time. If you are being accused of robbery in Georgia, you don’t have to figure out the criminal justice system on your own. Start learning more about the law and any possible defenses that you may have by meeting with an experienced Georgia criminal defense lawyer.