Robbery and Burglary Offences
Criminal Offences
About Robbery and Burglary Offences
Offences of this nature are regarded by the Court as very serious crimes against another person. If found guilty at Court the accused could face a lengthy prison sentence; especially if a high level of violence is demonstrated.
Our solicitors have successfully defended clients for such allegations where the prosecution could not prove beyond reasonable doubt our client’s identity. Moreover, using cell-site evidence client’s have successfully been defended on the basis that their presence could not be proven.
Our expert solicitors have experience in dealing with such complex matters at Court and effectively analysing the prosecution’s case. Contact us immediately to explore your defence or discuss any ongoing investigations.
Robbery / Armed Robbery
To be guilty of this offence it must be proven beyond reasonable doubt that at the time of/or directly before stealing from a victim, the accused uses force or threatens to use force. The force used must be linked to the theft from the victim to amount to an offence of robbery. This can involve a simple punch to the face where the accused takes the victims mobile phone. A successful defence to this allegation is that illustrated by the case of Robinson [1977] Crim LR 173, in which the Court of Appeal held that there was no robbery where the defendant honestly believed that he had a right to the property in question.
The offence of armed robbery takes place when a weapon is used to commit robbery. In these circumstances a weapon can be a firearm, or any form of physical tool. Such cases often involve forensic/DNA analysis to link the weapon to the accused.
Burglary / Aggravated Burglary
What you might not know is that to be guilty of burglary, you need not steal anything after entering someone else’s property, the intention to steal or cause them GBH or commit criminal damage is sufficient. Burglary of a dwelling house has more severe sentencing that that of burglary of a non-dwelling e.g. office block. If the intention cannot be proven, the offence is not made out.
To be charged with the more serious offence of aggravated burglary the additional element required to be proven by the prosecution is that the accused at the time has with him a firearm, imitation firearm, weapon or explosive.
If the prosecution cannot prove beyond reasonable doubt that the accused entered the alleged building, the offence is not made out.
Going Equipped
A person is guilty of this offence if he has with him any article for use in the course of or in connection with any burglary or theft. Defendants are commonly charged with this offence if found on the street with tools such as bolt cutters, screwdrivers and balaclavas/gloves.
It is a full defence if it can be demonstrated that the items carried were used for example, in trade or the accused had lawful authority to carry these items. Moreover, the intention to commit a burglary or theft must be proven.
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Brilliant result
Mr Masood has represented me for a number of years. Whenever I have been caught in a difficult position before the Magistrates Court, with his attention to detail and expert advocacy he always gets me a brilliant result.
– MrN
Brings "A" Game
Honest, learned and experienced solicitor. Mr Masood always brings his A Game to the police station and Court. He is never afraid to challenge the police and the evidence. I would never speak to the police without Mr Masood by my side.
Extremely grateful
Mr Masood represented me for a matter of drug driving. Unfortunately this was the second time I had been charged with this offence and due to my previous convictions I faced the real prospect of a custodial sentence. Mr Masood was able to expertly mitigate on my behalf, expressing my personal circumstances and persuaded the Court to suspend my sentence. I am extremely grateful for his efforts.
– MrR
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I was arrested and wrongly accused of assaulting the police. At my police station interview, Mr Masood challenged the evidence provided by the police and escalated the matter to professional standards. I was released with no further action with the arresting officer referred to professional standards for the way I was treated.
– MrP
Unparalleled dedication and empathy
Represented throughout the most difficult period of my life facing an allegation of Rape in the Crown Court. Tenacity and eye for detail through a challenging process led to my acquittal. I can finally move on with my life. Wishing the team nothing but the best.
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Notable Wins
- R v W: Murder Acquittal at the Old Bailey - Youth client acquitted after 6-week trial
- R v B: Drug Importation Acquittal - Modern slavery defence for trafficking victim
- R v C: Section 18 GBH Acquittal - Self-defence in serious wounding case
- R v S: Honour-Based Stalking - Crown discontinued at trial after evidence challenge
- R v L: Arson Acquittal - Joint enterprise case dismissed after digital evidence challenge
- R v M: Section 18 Stabbing Acquittal - Serious assault case won at trial
Why Fraser Masood
A Different Kind of Criminal Solicitor
Fraser Masood brings fresh energy to criminal defence. Whilst other solicitors play it safe, we challenge the system with a dynamic approach.
Track Record:
- One of the youngest qualified criminal duty solicitors in West London
- Built practice from startup to major regional provider in 3 years
- Excellent outcomes at the most prominent courts in the country.
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Fraser Masood handles serious cases personally
Direct approach
We tell you the truth, not what you want to hear
Professional focus
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Your Future Depends on What You Do Right Now
Every hour you wait makes this situation harder to resolve.
The investigation is happening whether you’re prepared or not. The only question is whether you’ll have expert protection fighting for you.
Don’t face this alone. Don’t wait for charges to be filed. Act now.