Robbery Lawyer in The Woodlands
Defending Clients Facing A Robbery Charge In Montgomery County
If you or someone you care about has been arrested for robbery or aggravated robbery in or around The Woodlands, you are likely worried about prison time, a permanent felony record, and what will happen in court. These charges are serious, and the process can feel fast and confusing.
I am attorney Ronnie Yeates, and I focus my practice on criminal defense in this part of Montgomery County. I bring more than 20 years of experience in criminal law, including 17 years as an Assistant District Attorney, to every robbery case I handle. I use that background to evaluate how prosecutors are likely to build and negotiate your case.
From my office at Ronnie Yeates Law, I work with people accused of robbery, aggravated robbery, and related felony offenses who live or work in The Woodlands.
If you are trying to make sense of what comes next, you can contact me online or call (832) 957-9077 for a confidential consultation so we can talk through your specific situation.
Understanding Robbery Laws in Texas
In Texas, robbery is governed by Chapter 29 of the Penal Code. The law defines robbery as occurring when a person, in the course of committing theft and with the intent to obtain or maintain control of property:
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another; or
- Intentionally or knowingly threatens or places another in fear of imminent bodily injury or death.
It is critical to distinguish between the two primary levels of this offense:
- Robbery (2nd Degree Felony): The standard charge when force or threats are used during a theft. Even a minor scuffle or "shoving" someone during a shoplifting incident can escalate a misdemeanor theft into a second-degree felony robbery.
- Aggravated Robbery (1st Degree Felony): Under Texas Penal Code § 29.03, the charge is elevated if the actor causes serious bodily injury, uses or exhibits a deadly weapon (such as a firearm or knife), or targets a victim who is 65 years of age or older or disabled.
Our firm focuses on these distinctions. A The Woodlands robbery attorney must be able to challenge the "deadly weapon" finding or the severity of an injury to prevent a client from facing the life-altering penalties of a first-degree felony.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Robbery in Texas
The penalties for robbery in Texas are among the most severe for property-related crimes due to the violent element involved.
- Second-Degree Felony (Robbery): Punishable by 2 to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (prison) and a fine of up to $10,000.
- First-Degree Felony (Aggravated Robbery): Punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Beyond prison time, the collateral consequences are devastating. A robbery conviction is a "strike" in many jurisdictions and a permanent mark on your record that signifies a violent history. This often results in:
- Permanent loss of the right to own or possess a firearm.
- Ineligibility for many professional licenses (nursing, real estate, teaching).
- Mandatory deportation or denial of naturalization for non-citizens.
Significant barriers to housing, as many landlords in The Woodlands refuse to rent to individuals with violent felony records.
Attorney Ronnie Yeates has over 25 years of experience in criminal law. Get the representation you need by filling out an online contact form or calling our team today: (832) 957-9077.
How I Defend Robbery Allegations
A strong robbery defense begins with closely examining the State’s version of events. The attorney reviews charging documents, police reports, body camera footage, and recorded statements to identify inconsistencies or gaps. Identification is often central, so factors like lineup procedures, lighting, stress, and surveillance quality are analyzed to determine whether a witness identification is truly reliable.
The defense also evaluates whether the evidence supports claims of force, intent, or weapon use, distinguishing theft from robbery or aggravated robbery. Police procedures are scrutinized, including how statements were obtained and searches conducted. Experience inside a District Attorney’s Office helps identify weaknesses, procedural errors, and overstatements that may affect the strength of the prosecution’s case.
When I review a robbery case, I often focus on issues such as:
- Whether witnesses or alleged victims gave consistent accounts of what happened
- How identifications were made and whether proper safeguards were followed
- Whether video, phone data, or other records truly match the timeline in the reports
- How police handled searches, seizures, and any statements by you or others
- Whether the facts support an aggravated charge or a lower-level offense
Throughout the case, I work to keep you informed about what we are seeing and what it means. No lawyer can promise a particular result. What I can commit to is bringing my years of prosecution and defense experience to your case, preparing thoroughly, and giving you straightforward advice based on what I see in the evidence and in the courtroom.
Why Clients Choose My Robbery Defense in The Woodlands
Clients choose my robbery defense in The Woodlands because I combine extensive courtroom experience with a deep understanding of how the State builds its case. Having spent 17 years as an Assistant District Attorney handling serious felonies, I know how prosecutors evaluate evidence, assess risk, and pursue enhancements. That perspective now guides how I defend people accused of robbery and aggravated robbery.
My former role as a prosecutor provides insight into how robbery cases are handled inside the District Attorney’s Office. I understand what drives charging decisions, which facts may increase penalties, and which issues can weaken the State’s theory. This knowledge allows me to identify weaknesses, challenge evidence, and create a defense strategy tailored to the circumstances of each case.
Local expertise in Montgomery County courts is another key advantage. I know how hearings are scheduled, how bond is set, and how prosecutors approach robbery charges in The Woodlands. For cases involving firearms, my background as a federally licensed firearm manufacturer adds a practical perspective on technical details. I combine experience, local knowledge, and ongoing legal education to provide informed, strategic, and transparent defense for every client.
What To Do After A Robbery Arrest
Taking a few careful steps can help protect your rights while we prepare your defense.
- First, be very cautious about what you say and to whom. Statements to police, alleged victims, or even on social media can be used in court. In many situations, it is safest not to discuss the facts of the case until you have spoken with a lawyer who can advise you about potential risks.
- Second, pay close attention to any bond conditions set by the Montgomery County court that is handling your case. Conditions might include travel limits, no contact orders, or drug testing. Violating these can lead to your bond being revoked, which can make defending the case more difficult.
- Third, try to keep track of information that could help your defense. This might include names and contact information for potential witnesses, phone records, messages, or locations you were at when the alleged incident occurred. Even small details can matter when we are challenging the State’s version of events.
When you contact me, we can talk through what has happened so far, what charges have been filed, and what court you will appear in. I can explain how Montgomery County typically schedules settings, what to expect at those hearings, and how we can start preparing an approach that fits the specific facts of your case.
Talk To A Robbery Attorney in The Woodlands Today
As a robbery attorney The Woodlands with more than 20 years in criminal law and 17 years as an Assistant District Attorney, I draw on both prosecution and defense experience when I take on a case. My goal is to give you clear information about your options, prepare thoroughly, and stand with you throughout the process.
When you contact Ronnie Yeates Law, your consultation is confidential. We can discuss your charges, the potential range of outcomes, and practical next steps. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and decide whether I am the right fit for you and your family.
If you or someone close to you is facing a robbery or aggravated robbery charge in this area, I encourage you to reach out so we can talk about what comes next and how I may be able to help.
Call (832) 957-9077 or reach out online to speak with me about your robbery case.
Testimonials From Former Clients
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"From the first five minutes of my initial conversation with Ronnie, he seemed to know exactly what I was going through and I knew he was who I needed"Bert S.
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"I don't know what I would've done without Ronnie Yeates Law. They made sure I had my life back and could spend it with my family. From day one, they listened and ensured I was taken care of."Jason B.
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"Ronnie Yeates Law worked tirelessly to get my case dismissed. I trusted them throughout the process, and they always kept me informed and made me feel at ease."Lorissa P.
