Robbery charges in Missouri are among the most serious criminal offenses you can face. Unlike theft, robbery involves force or the threat of force — making it a violent crime with felony consequences that can follow you for decades. Whether you are charged with second degree robbery or armed robbery in the first degree, you need an experienced robbery lawyer in Columbia, MO who understands how the prosecution builds these cases and where the defense can win. Bur Oak Legal represents clients charged with robbery across central Missouri.
(573) 499-0200 — call anytimeMissouri defines robbery under Missouri Revised Statutes § 570.023 (first degree) and § 570.025 (second degree). Robbery is the taking of property from another person through the use of force or by threatening force. It is distinct from simple theft because of the element of physical force or intimidation directed at a victim. Missouri recognizes two degrees of robbery, with significantly different penalties for each.
Even displaying what appears to be a weapon elevates the charge. Under Missouri law, first degree robbery applies if you display or threaten the use of what appears to be a firearm — even if no weapon was present or functional. This is one of the most significant distinctions in Missouri robbery law and means a robbery can be charged at the first degree based solely on what a victim perceived.
Simple theft under Missouri law does not involve a confrontation with a victim. Robbery requires that property be taken directly from a person through force or intimidation. If you push someone and take their wallet, that is robbery. If you take something from an unattended bag, that is theft. The distinction matters enormously for the severity of charges, potential sentence, and available defenses.
Robbery is also distinct from burglary. Missouri burglary statutes cover unlawful entry into a building to commit a crime. Robbery involves taking property from a person through force. It is possible to face both charges from the same incident if the conduct involved both unlawful entry and a confrontation with a victim.
The charge level directly affects everything: the class of felony, the prison range, the long-term impact on your criminal record, and what defenses are available. A criminal defense lawyer who understands these distinctions can evaluate whether the facts of your case support the charge as filed — and whether there are grounds to challenge or reduce it.
Every robbery case turns on specific facts. The prosecution must prove each element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt — and an experienced robbery defense lawyer looks for every place that burden is not met. Common defenses include:
Before entering private practice, Chris Miller worked as a government attorney — where he learned how state agencies build and present cases. That background gives him direct insight into how prosecutors approach violent crime and property offense charges, and where their cases fall short.
Chris Miller has appeared before the Missouri Supreme Court and won a case that expanded the rights of working Missourians statewide. When you hire Bur Oak Legal, your robbery defense stays with Chris from the first consultation to the final outcome. No associates at your hearings. No paralegals as your point of contact. Your case gets Chris's full attention at every stage.
A robbery conviction can affect your driving privileges, your professional license, your right to possess a firearm, your ability to find work, and your standing in the community for decades. Chris is honest about what your case looks like, explains the realistic range of outcomes, and fights to secure the best possible result — whether that means a reduced charge, a favorable plea, or taking your case to trial.
Bur Oak Legal represents clients in Columbia, MO and throughout Boone County, Callaway County, Cole County, Moniteau County, Howard County, Cooper County, Audrain County, Randolph County, and Phelps County. Missouri Supreme Court track record. Free consultation. Call (573) 499-0200.
The earlier you get legal counsel, the more options you have. Call Bur Oak Legal for a free consultation — confidential, no obligation, and no cost to talk through your situation.