Being arrested or investigated for robbery is frightening, and it can feel like your entire future is at risk. Felony charges bring the threat of prison, a permanent record, and damage to your work and family life. You should not face that alone or without clear guidance.
At Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, we defend people accused of robbery and other serious crimes in the Knoxville area. We provide vigorous legal representation and work to build a defense strategy that fits the facts of your case and your goals. You can speak with us in a free, confidential consultation, and we are available to respond to urgent situations at any hour.
Attorney Joseph A. Fanduzz is a skilled trial lawyer who has handled criminal cases in Federal Court, Criminal Court, and General Session Court. Our firm focuses on strong attorney-client relationships, so you always know where your case stands and what comes next.
Robbery in Tennessee is a serious felony accusation. A conviction can mean years in prison, strict supervision, and limits on your options long after any sentence is over. In this situation, you need a criminal defense lawyer who is comfortable in high-stakes courts and who understands how prosecutors build robbery cases.
Our firm is led by Attorney Joseph Fanduzz, who is part of an elite group of trial lawyers and a graduate of the National Criminal Defense College. This training reflects a high level of commitment to defending people accused of crimes and to effective courtroom advocacy. When your freedom is on the line, trial skill and preparation matter, even if your case ultimately resolves through negotiation.
We handle cases in the Federal Court, Criminal Court, and General Session Court. Robbery matters that arise in or around Knoxville may be heard in Knox County General Sessions Court and Knox County Criminal Court, depending on how the case proceeds. This experience gives us insight into how cases typically move through the local system and what procedures you can expect at each stage.
What is Robbery?
In Tennessee, robbery involves taking property from another person using violence or putting that person in fear. It is different from theft because it focuses on force or intimidation, not just the property taken.
There are more serious forms of this offense. Aggravated robbery generally involves a weapon or serious bodily injury. Especially aggravated robbery typically involves both a deadly weapon and serious injury, or other factors that increase the level of danger. These higher levels carry more severe potential penalties and are treated very seriously in court.
What are the Penalties for Robbery in Tennessee?
Robbery offenses are felonies, and potential sentences can include significant prison terms, fines, probation, and lengthy supervision. A felony record can also affect housing, job opportunities, professional licensing, and some civil rights. The exact consequences in any particular case depend on the specific charge level, prior record, alleged facts, and decisions made by the court.
Cases that arise in or around Knoxville often proceed in Knox County General Sessions Court first. They may then be bound over to Knox County Criminal Court if the matter continues. Each step can involve important decisions about bond, discovery, and how to respond to the charges. We guide clients through these stages, explain what to expect at each hearing, and help them understand their options.
Learning about the law can feel overwhelming, especially while you are dealing with the stress of an arrest. We work to explain Tennessee robbery statutes and possible penalties in straightforward language so you can weigh the risks and make choices that align with your goals and concerns.
What Should I Do After Being Arrested?
The hours and days after an arrest are often confusing and stressful. You may be taken to a local jail facility, appear before a judge for an initial appearance, and be questioned by officers or detectives. Family members are often trying to find out where you are and what can be done next.
Every situation is different, but some steps usually help protect your rights and your case. Following these can reduce the chance of unintentionally harming your defense.
Key steps to take after a robbery arrest:
Exercise your right to remain silent. Politely tell officers that you want a lawyer before answering questions. Even if you believe you can clear things up, statements can be misunderstood or used against you later.
Avoid talking about the case with others. Conversations with friends, family, or other inmates can sometimes become evidence. It is safer to save details for private discussions with your attorney.
Stay off social media. Posts, messages, and photos can be taken out of context and reviewed by law enforcement or prosecutors. It is wise not to discuss the case online at all.
Gather basic information. If possible, note dates, times, and any names of witnesses or officers you recall. This information can help your lawyer evaluate the situation.
Have a family member contact a lawyer. If you are in custody, a relative or friend can call our office so we can begin reviewing the situation and discussing next steps.
We understand the pressure that comes with an arrest in Knoxville or the surrounding area. When our firm is contacted, we focus on understanding the immediate concerns, such as bond, upcoming court dates, and communication with loved ones. We then work with you to begin protecting your rights and planning a defense as early as possible.
How We Defend Robbery Cases
A strong defense starts with careful attention to both the law and the facts. In robbery cases, key issues can include how the identification was made, whether there is reliable evidence of force or a weapon, what role you are alleged to have played, and what the physical or digital evidence actually shows.
When we take on a robbery case, we review available police reports, witness statements, and any surveillance or digital records. We also listen closely to your account of what happened and how the investigation unfolded. There are often details that do not appear in official paperwork but matter greatly for building a defense.
Our work can involve challenging the way evidence was collected, questioning the accuracy of identifications, or highlighting inconsistencies in the prosecution’s theory. In some cases, it may make sense to pursue negotiations with the prosecutor. In others, the better course may be to prepare thoroughly for trial. The right approach depends on the facts, the available evidence, and your priorities. We explain options and potential risks so you can decide how to move forward.
Communication is a central part of how we run our practice. We know that clients facing robbery allegations need clear updates and honest answers. Our firm strives to keep you informed about developments, court settings, and possible outcomes. We encourage questions and make time to discuss strategy, because your input is important to building a defense that truly reflects your side of the story.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I talk to the police if I am innocent?
Even if you are innocent, speaking to the police without a lawyer can harm your case. Statements can be misunderstood or taken out of context. We generally suggest that you clearly request an attorney, then remain polite but silent until you have legal advice tailored to your situation.
Can a robbery conviction affect my life beyond prison time?
Yes. A felony robbery conviction can have long-term collateral consequences, such as difficulty finding housing or employment, loss of certain civil rights (like voting or firearm possession), and a permanent criminal record.
Is attempted robbery charged the same as completed robbery?
Attempted robbery — where someone tries but fails to complete the elements of robbery — is often charged as a lesser offense (e.g., a misdemeanor or lower felony) under Tennessee law, though it can still carry jail time and fines.
Contact Our Robbery Lawyer in Knoxville Today
If you or a loved one is facing a robbery charge, the decisions you make now can affect your future for years to come. Speaking with a robbery lawyer in Knoxville can help you understand the specific allegations, the possible penalties, and the options for defending the case.
When you contact Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, you reach a firm that focuses on vigorous criminal defense, individualized strategies, and strong client relationships. We bring advanced trial training, experience in Knoxville courts, and a commitment to being accessible when you need us. We treat every client with respect and maintain strict confidentiality.
Contact us today to get started with our Knoxville robbery attorney.
“Mr. Fanduzz is committed to nothing but the BEST outcome for his clients.”
Nearly two years ago, I was charged with DUI and Speeding. Due to my occupation, a conviction could be detrimental to my career. I contacted Mr. Fanduzz and he was able to have my case placed on Judicial Diversion, which required me to serve only one year supervised probation (reduced from two years) and court cost. I retained my drivers license and did not have to purchase expensive car insurance.
Unfortunately, while on probation, I was charged with two counts of assault and aggravated assault. Along with these new charges, I also faced violation of my probation and the original DUI. All charges were considered Felonies at this point. There was no hesitation in hiring him to represent me again. Mr. Fanduzz not only kept me well informed, he also skillfully and agressively argued on my behalf. He arranged for my probation and judicial diversion to be reinstated and the felony assault charges to be dismissed in exchange for a plea to a misdemeanor offence.
Needless to say, I highly recommend Mr. Fanduzz because of his attention to detail and commitment to have the BEST possible outcome for his clients.
NACDL
