Salt Lake City Robbery Charges Defense Attorney

Last updated on September 22, 2026

Robbery is often associated with a man in a black eye mask holding bags of cash and a gun while running from the police, but make no mistake, they are very serious criminal charges for which it would be a very good idea to retain a Utah robbery lawyer.

Robbery involves the unlawful and intentional taking of personal property from the possession of another who has possession of the property on his person or in his immediate presence by force with the intention to permanently deprive the person of the property. Force or fear of the use of immediate force must be used by the perpetrator to commit a robbery. Thus, the typical mugging is a robbery. Likewise, stick-ups and hold-ups at banks and convenience stores are robberies.

Robbery is a second-degree felony because it is a property crime that involves violence. That means that prison time, fines and restitution all become possible penalties for someone who is convicted of the offense, so minimizing those potential penalties is what a good Utah robbery lawyer will do for you.

Aggravated Robbery Charges

There are three ways that a robbery becomes an aggravated robbery. First, if the suspect used a dangerous weapon, which is defined as anything that can cause death or serious bodily injury. We have seen prosecutors claim that a skateboard that was used as a weapon was a “dangerous weapon,” so basically, anything can be claimed to be a dangerous weapon for purposes of an aggravated robbery charge. Second, if the suspect actually caused serious bodily injury. Finally, if the suspect stole or attempted to steal a motor vehicle. If any of these acts are committed during the course of a robbery, the charges will be enhanced to an aggravated robbery.

Aggravated robbery is a first-degree felony, which can result in life in prison. If you have been charged with aggravated robbery, contact our experienced criminal defense law firm to get top-rated attorneys defending your rights. Call us for a consultation at 801-810-2045.

Common Questions About Robbery In Utah

Understanding these allegations under Utah law is critical when evaluating your defense options. Because the law treats taking property very differently depending on force, location and weapons, answering these common questions can help clarify your charges:

What is the legal difference between theft, burglary and robbery in Utah?

While all three offenses involve property, Utah law distinguishes them by how and where the crime occurs:

• Theft (Utah Code § 76-6-404): Unlawfully taking someone else’s property without permission, involving no force, threats or unlawful entry.
• Burglary (Utah Code § 76-6-202): Unlawfully getting inside a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime on the premises.
• Robbery (Utah Code § 76-6-301): Taking property directly from a person’s body or immediate presence using physical force or fear.

What makes a robbery ‘aggravated’ under Utah law?

Under Utah Code § 76-6-302, standard robbery elevates to aggravated robbery if, during the act or immediate escape, an individual uses or threatens to use a dangerous weapon, causes serious bodily injury to another person or takes or attempts to take an operable motor vehicle.

Can I be charged with aggravated robbery if I didn’t actually have a real gun or weapon?

Yes. Under Utah law, using a fake gun, a toy weapon or simply implying you have a weapon – such as holding a hand in a pocket while claiming to be armed – satisfies the legal standard for a dangerous weapon if the victim reasonably believes a weapon is present.

Knowing these distinctions helps you recognize where prosecutors may have overcharged your case, giving your defense team clear opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s evidence.

Talk To A Utah Robbery Attorney Today For Guidance

Facing robbery charges puts your freedom, reputation and future at immediate risk. Our criminal defense team stands ready to intervene, protect your constitutional rights and build an aggressive strategy to fight your charges. Contact Salcido Law Firm today at 801-810-2045 or complete this form to schedule a confidential strategy consultation.