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Expert Legal Defence Across The UK From Our Middlesbrough Law Offices
Get Your Free 30 minute consultationIf you’ve been accused of commercial robbery, you need expert legal support—fast. This page is for individuals and businesses under investigation or facing charges, not for victims or crime prevention advice. Our team of commercial robbery solicitors has decades of experience defending clients facing serious and complex allegations across the North East. We understand what’s at stake and act quickly to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future. We offer a free 30-minute consultation and 24/7 legal representation. If you've been arrested or expect to be questioned, contact us immediately for expert defence.
Get Your Free ConsultationCommercial robbery is defined under Section 8 of the Theft Act 1968, which states that a person is guilty of robbery if they steal and, immediately before or at the time of doing so, use force or threaten to use force to carry out the theft. In a commercial context, this involves targeting a business premises such as a shop, bank, post office, or commercial warehouse.
The key legal components of robbery include:
The difference between robbery and commercial robbery lies in the setting. Commercial robbery specifically refers to incidents targeting businesses or workplaces, rather than individuals in public (such as in a street robbery). It also often involves additional planning, use of weapons, or working in groups, which can lead to harsher charges and penalties.
Examples of commercial robbery include:
Both attempted and completed commercial robberies are treated seriously by the courts. Even if nothing was ultimately stolen, the presence of force or threat is enough to warrant a criminal charge.
If you’ve been accused of commercial robbery or believe you're under investigation, visit our Robbery Solicitors page for further legal information and support.
Being accused of commercial robbery is a serious matter and typically follows a structured legal process. Knowing what to expect can help reduce panic and ensure you take the right steps early.
If you’re suspected of involvement in a business robbery, you may be arrested at your home, workplace, or at the scene. You’ll be taken to a police station for questioning and may be held in custody while initial investigations take place.
Police will question you under caution — meaning anything you say may be used in evidence. You have the right to remain silent and the right to a solicitor. It’s crucial not to answer questions until you've received professional legal advice.
We offer 24/7 police station representation, ensuring your rights are protected and you don’t inadvertently harm your defence.
Police may execute a search warrant at your home or business premises. Officers may seize items such as phones, laptops, clothing, or other items that could relate to the alleged offence.
It’s also common for law enforcement to seize cash, vehicles, or financial records, especially if they believe the robbery was part of a broader criminal enterprise. These assets may be held pending investigation or trial.
Acting early is vital. Legal support at this stage can affect bail decisions, what evidence is admissible, and whether you're formally charged. If you've been arrested or expect to be questioned, contact our commercial robbery solicitors immediately for support.
At MMA Law, we offer more than just legal representation — we provide strategic defence built on decades of experience in serious criminal law. Our commercial robbery solicitors are trusted by clients across Middlesbrough, the North East, and beyond for our ability to handle high-stakes, complex robbery cases with care, discretion, and legal precision.
We understand the pressure and uncertainty that come with a commercial robbery allegation. That’s why we offer:
Whether you’ve been arrested, charged, or are under investigation, MMA Law is ready to defend your rights with determination and experience.
Contact us to arrange a free 30-minute legal consultation.
If you’ve been accused of a commercial robbery, the potential legal consequences are severe. In the UK, robbery is charged under Section 8 of the Theft Act 1968, which defines the offence as theft involving the use or threat of force.
When the alleged offence involves a weapon or imitation firearm, charges may escalate. This could result in aggravated robbery or even possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear or violence. These factors are treated very seriously by the courts and can significantly increase sentencing.
The maximum penalty for robbery is life imprisonment. However, actual sentences depend on the specific circumstances and the Sentencing Council’s guidelines.
Examples of sentencing ranges include:
Aggravating factors that can increase sentencing:
Mitigating factors that may reduce a sentence:
At MMA Law, we understand that being accused of commercial robbery can be devastating. Our role is to examine every detail of the prosecution’s case and build a strong, strategic defence. Our criminal defence solicitors have decades of experience defending complex and high-stakes cases, including armed and commercial robbery.
Depending on the facts, we may argue one or more of the following defences:
Insufficient evidence: Where the prosecution relies on circumstantial or uncorroborated evidence, we press for dismissal.
Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) cases often rely heavily on forensic, mobile phone, or CCTV footage. We work with expert analysts to assess the quality and legality of this evidence. If the footage is unclear, the forensic links are weak, or the chain of custody is broken, we’ll challenge its admissibility.
In every criminal case, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution. Our job is to highlight inconsistencies, gaps, and errors that raise reasonable doubt — ensuring you are not convicted without clear and compelling evidence.
Whether you're facing a first-time allegation or a complex joint enterprise charge, our serious crime defence team is ready to help.
Our solicitors use strategic case-building to seek charge reductions, plea bargains, or sentencing mitigation. We gather evidence to support your case, challenge unreliable prosecution claims, and present your circumstances clearly and persuasively to the court.
If you’re facing commercial robbery charges in the UK, expert legal defence could make a life-changing difference. Let us fight your case.
Commercial robbery charges don’t always stem from masked intruders or armed raids. In some cases, business owners or employees themselves are accused, often due to internal suspicions, workplace disputes, or security breaches.
Allegations of an “inside job” can arise if:
In these cases, police may treat individuals as suspects based on circumstantial evidence or tip-offs. Even without a conviction, the reputational harm can be lasting.
Employers are not usually held criminally responsible unless there’s active involvement or wilful negligence. However, issues around data security, access control, or lack of safeguards can complicate matters.
Disputes between employees, anonymous reports, or unfounded suspicions can all lead to false claims. We regularly represent clients who’ve been accused due to personal grievances, internal politics, or misinterpreted actions.
Many commercial robbery investigations involve reviewing:
At MMA Law, we carefully examine this evidence for accuracy, legal admissibility, and context. A missing timestamp or faulty system can completely change the narrative.
We help both business owners and employees protect their legal position, challenge false accusations, and minimise reputational damage from the outset.
Below are the most common questions we've been asked over the years when it comes to defending commercial robbery cases. If you have further questions, please get in touch with a member of our legal team. We'll be able to give you answers specific to your circumstances.
The maximum sentence for commercial robbery under Section 8 of the Theft Act 1968 is life imprisonment.
Actual sentencing depends on factors like:
Sentences commonly range from 4 to 20+ years, depending on severity. Aggravated cases involving firearms often result in longer custodial terms.
Yes, you can still be charged. While physical evidence strengthens a case, prosecutors may rely on:
Our solicitors will challenge the credibility and admissibility of such evidence as part of your defence.
Robbery involves the use or threat of force to steal property from someone. Burglary involves entering a building unlawfully with the intent to steal, cause damage, or commit assault.
Robbery
Burglary
Involves direct confrontation
May occur without anyone present
Force or threat is essential
No force needed for theft element
Typically charged under Section 8 Theft Act
Typically under Section 9 Theft Act
A prison sentence is highly likely if convicted. Courts take commercial robberies seriously, particularly where:
However, early legal advice, strong mitigation, or plea negotiation can reduce sentencing severity or result in alternatives to custody.
An experienced solicitor can:
MMA Law provides robust legal defence for those falsely accused. We will help you every step of the way. From 24/7 police station representation to fighting your case in court.
Yes. Business owners may face charges if suspected of staging robberies, colluding with others, or misreporting theft for gain. We help defend against:
If you're a business owner under suspicion, early legal advice is vital to protect your reputation and legal position.
If you or someone you care about has been accused of commercial robbery, it’s vital to act quickly. Early legal intervention can significantly improve your outcome — from securing bail to challenging evidence or preventing charges altogether.
Our experienced solicitors are here to provide immediate, expert support.
We’re based in Middlesbrough and represent clients across the North East and nationally. Whether you're facing investigation or preparing for court, our team is ready to support you.
Contact us today — your future deserves expert defence.
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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