Tampa Burglary & Robbery Defense Lawyers
Serving Hillsborough, Pinellas & Pasco Counties
If you or a loved one is facing burglary or robbery charges, you need immediate legal representation from an experienced Tampa burglary & robbery lawyer. These are serious felony offenses under Florida law, carrying the potential for lengthy prison sentences, permanent criminal records, and life-altering consequences.
At Sanchez Vaughn, we focus on criminal defense. Founded by a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer and former prosecutor who has achieved a high success rate, we fight strategically, aggressively, and without compromise to protect your rights and pursue optimum results.
When you are arrested or learn you are under investigation for burglary or robbery anywhere in the Tampa Bay area, every step you take can affect how your case unfolds in the Hillsborough County courts or neighboring circuits. Speaking with a burglary attorney Tampa residents trust for serious felonies can help you avoid common mistakes, understand what to expect at first appearance and arraignment, and begin building a defense before the prosecution has fully developed its case.
We offer free initial phone, office, or virtual consultations. Call Sanchez Vaughn at (813) 401-9918 or contact us online to get started. Hablamos español. Available 24/7.
Why Choose Sanchez Vaughn?
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Recognition of Excellence
Nicole's consistent recognition in the list of Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” from 2021 through 2025 reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence, integrity, and results-driven representation.
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Culturally Attuned RepresentationWe recognize the importance of culturally competent representation. By offering services in both English and Spanish, we ensure our clients feel heard, respected, and understood at every step.
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Comprehensive Legal ExpertiseWith extensive experience across a wide range of serious criminal cases—from homicide and sex crimes to federal appeals—we bring a deep and nuanced understanding of the law to every case we handle.
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Strategic and Fearless AdvocacyWe approach each case with fearless determination and strategic precision, relentlessly challenging injustices and standing up to power imbalances in the legal system.
Burglary vs. Robbery in Florida
Although often confused, burglary and robbery are distinct crimes under Florida law.
Burglary (Florida Statutes § 810.02) involves unlawfully entering a dwelling, structure, or conveyance with the intent to commit a crime inside, typically theft. Importantly, no theft needs to be completed; only the intent matters.
Burglary can be classified as:
- Third-degree felony if no one is present and no weapon is used (up to five years in prison).
- Second-degree felony if the building is occupied (up to 15 years).
- First-degree felony if a weapon is involved or assault occurs (up to life in prison).
In many Tampa cases, questions arise about whether the accused actually intended to commit a crime inside or whether they had permission to be on the property, and an experienced burglary lawyer Tampa defendants can turn to will carefully examine police reports, witness statements, and any available video to identify defenses based on lack of intent, mistaken identity, or unlawful entry procedures.
Robbery (Florida Statutes § 812.13) is defined as the use of force, violence, or the threat of force during the act of taking property from another person. Unlike burglary, robbery requires a confrontation with a victim.
Robbery offenses include:
- Robbery by sudden snatching - Third-degree felony (up to five years).
- Strong-arm robbery (no weapon) - Second-degree felony (up to 15 years).
- Armed robbery - First-degree felony (up to life in prison).
Because robbery charges almost always involve allegations of threats or violence, they are treated very seriously in courts such as the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit in Hillsborough County and can trigger Florida’s sentencing guidelines, minimum mandatories, and victim-impact considerations, so having a Tampa burglary & robbery lawyer residents can rely on for clear guidance and strong advocacy can be critical from the earliest stages of the case.
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the Collateral Consequences of a Conviction
A burglary or robbery conviction can follow you for life, even after serving time.
Beyond incarceration and fines, you may face:
- Loss of civil rights, including voting and firearm ownership
- Barriers to employment, housing, and education
- Immigration consequences, including potential deportation
- Damage to personal reputation and relationships
These long-term repercussions make it critical to challenge the charges effectively from the beginning.
Why Legal Representation Is Essential
Prosecutors often pursue burglary and robbery cases aggressively, especially when weapons, prior convictions, or victims are involved. Law enforcement may rely on unreliable witnesses, questionable identifications, or circumstantial evidence.
An experienced defense attorney from Sanchez Vaughn can:
- Investigate unlawful searches, seizures, or arrests
- Challenge eyewitness testimony and surveillance evidence
- Negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Defend you at trial with strategic and persuasive advocacy
Early intervention can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.