Being accused of armed robbery is one of the most serious criminal allegations a person can face in the UK. It carries the possibility of a life sentence and can have a lasting impact on your future, your freedom, and your family. At MMA Law, our specialist armed robbery solicitors provide expert defence for clients facing these complex charges. We act quickly, discreetly, and decisively to protect your rights from the very beginning. Whether you’ve been arrested, charged, or are under investigation, early legal representation can make all the difference to the outcome of your case. We represent clients across Middlesbrough, Teesside, and the wider North East. Our criminal defence team is available 24/7 for urgent police station call-outs and immediate legal advice. Book a free 30-minute consultation with our experienced solicitors today. We’re here to listen, support, and defend you every step of the way.
Get Your Free ConsultationArmed robbery is defined under Section 8 of the Theft Act 1968. It is a form of robbery where the offender uses a weapon or threatens violence during a theft. This includes real firearms, imitation guns, knives, or any item intended to cause fear or harm.
In simple terms, it’s theft that involves the threat or use of force while carrying or using a weapon. The presence of a weapon significantly increases the seriousness of the offence and the penalties that follow.
Examples of armed robbery include:
The key difference between robbery and armed robbery lies in the presence or use of a weapon. Robbery alone is serious, but the use of arms makes it far more severe in the eyes of the law.
If you’ve been accused, understanding the armed robbery definition under UK law is the first step in building your defence. Our team of criminal defence solicitors will help you - every step of the way.
You don’t have to fire a weapon to be charged with armed robbery. In fact, many people are arrested for armed robbery based on the presence or use of a weapon — real or imitation — during the commission of a theft.
Armed robbery charges often arise from:
You can also be prosecuted even if you didn’t carry out the robbery yourself. Under joint enterprise, you may be found guilty if you played a role in planning or assisting the crime. Being concerned in a robbery means you can be charged if you helped organise or were present during the offence.
It’s also important to understand that possession of an imitation firearm during a robbery is treated seriously. The law focuses on the fear and danger created, not just whether the weapon was real.
If you’re facing a firearm-related offence, the risks are high. Early legal advice is essential to protect your future and build a strong defence.
Armed robbery is one of the most serious criminal offences under UK law. If convicted, the maximum sentence is life imprisonment. The courts treat these cases with the utmost severity, especially when firearms or imitation weapons are involved.
Sentencing is guided by the Sentencing Council for England and Wales, which considers both aggravating and mitigating factors:
Aggravating factors:
Mitigating factors:
If a firearm (real or imitation) is used or carried during a robbery, a minimum custodial sentence may apply under the Firearms Act. This is especially the case for repeat offenders or when a firearm is discharged, even if no one is physically harmed.
Courts also consider:
You can view the full guidelines at the Sentencing Council website.
If you’re facing a charge, it’s vital to seek immediate legal advice. Contact us today to see how MMA Law can help.
Being arrested for armed robbery is a serious matter. What happens in the first few hours can affect the entire outcome of your case. Here’s what to expect:
If the police suspect your involvement, they will arrest and detain you. You may be held in custody for questioning under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE).
You’ll be interviewed under caution. What you say here can be used as evidence. Never answer police questions without a solicitor present. MMA Law offers immediate legal advice during interviews — 24 hours a day.
After the interview, the police may refer your case to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). The CPS will decide whether to charge you based on the evidence and the public interest.
If charged with armed robbery, your first appearance will be in the Magistrates’ Court. Your case will likely then be sent to the Crown Court due to the serious nature of the offence.
Throughout the process, having an experienced legal team is crucial. MMA Law provides expert defence from the moment of arrest to final trial. If you’ve been charged with armed robbery, act fast — your defence starts now.
At MMA Law, we provide expert criminal defence in serious cases. Our armed robbery defence solicitors have years of experience representing clients facing complex, high-stakes allegations in the Crown Court.
We understand the urgency and severity of these cases. From the moment you're under investigation or arrested for armed robbery, early legal advice can make all the difference. It can lead to dropped charges, stronger plea negotiations, or exclusion of unreliable evidence.
Our approach is strategic, discreet, and focused on results. We don’t just react — we prepare, challenge, and protect. You’ll be supported every step of the way by a dedicated armed robbery defence solicitor.
If you're facing serious allegations, don’t delay. Book your free 30-minute consultation with MMA Law today for urgent legal advice for armed robbery.
Armed robbery carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment under the Theft Act 1968. The actual sentence depends on factors such as the use of violence, presence of firearms or weapons, injuries caused, prior convictions, and planning involved. Judges follow Sentencing Council guidelines, which balance aggravating and mitigating factors. If a firearm was used, a mandatory minimum sentence of five years may apply.
Yes, but bail is not automatic in armed robbery cases. Courts consider:
You will usually need a criminal defence solicitor to apply for bail. In some cases, bail may come with strict conditions like curfews, electronic monitoring, or surrendering your passport.
The prosecution may rely on a wide range of evidence, including:
A strong defence will challenge the reliability, relevance, and legality of each type of evidence.
Yes. Even imitation firearms can lead to armed robbery charges if used to threaten or intimidate. The law focuses on the perceived threat to the victim, not whether the weapon is real. Courts take such cases seriously and may impose similar sentences to those involving real firearms, especially if the imitation looks realistic or causes distress.
Yes, armed robbery charges can be dropped — but only under specific conditions:
Our experienced solicitor can assess the case early and work to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
Robbery involves theft with the use or threat of force. Armed robbery includes the use or threat of a weapon, such as a firearm, knife, or imitation gun. This significantly increases the seriousness of the offence, with harsher penalties and mandatory minimum sentences in some cases.
When you're facing one of the most serious criminal allegations, experience and expertise matter. At MMA Law, our specialist criminal defence solicitors are trusted across Middlesbrough, Teesside, the wider North East and beyond for providing strategic, effective defence in armed robbery cases.
We bring:
Our team is known for its strategic thinking, client-first service, and robust case preparation. Whether you’re under investigation or already charged, we can step in immediately — and take over existing cases if needed.
Your first 30-minute legal consultation is completely free and confidential. Let MMA Law be the firm that stands between you and a wrongful conviction.
If you’ve been arrested or charged with armed robbery, or believe you may be under investigation, the time to act is now. At MMA Law, we offer fast, confidential advice when you need it most.
Don’t wait. Get expert help from an experienced defence solicitor today.
Call us now on 01642 941440 or book your free 30-minute legal consultation online.
We’re available 24/7, and our solicitors cover police stations and courts across the North East, including Middlesbrough, Teesside, and surrounding areas.
Every moment counts. Talk to our criminal defence specialists now. Your future may depend on it.
We will assess your eligibility for Legal Aid and if you are not eligible, we will provide you with an agreed fee to represent you to conclusion of your case.
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