Facing robbery charges in Ohio can be very overwhelming. These accusations are serious and can destroy certain aspects of your life. A Mentor robbery lawyer can help ease your worry by helping you navigate the legal process and build a solid defense to achieve a positive outcome.
Having the right legal representation can be pivotal for your case, offering you compassion during this challenging time. The right Mentor robbery lawyer needs to understand the state’s laws and trial processes. They will need to be skilled negotiators and investigators, seeking to have evidence suppressed or negotiate plea deals if your case requires it.

Our team at Fortress Law Group, LLC, is backed by proven results. With over 15 years of experience defending clients at Mentor Municipal Court on Civic Center Blvd, our team understands the trial process and can help you through every step of the process.
Our team will work to protect your rights as your case progresses through the legal system. Our goal is to help you achieve an outcome that allows you to move forward with minimal damage to your personal or professional life. Contact us today to discuss the right strategy to fit your case.
Robbery is defined as taking another person’s property through threats, intimidation, force, or violence. In Ohio, it is considered a theft crime, but what sets it apart is the element of force or fear that must be present in order to classify it as a robbery.
In 2024, Ohio had reported 1,551 property crimes per 100,000 people. This is 11.9% lower than the national average, but still high. Due to these numbers, Ohio law enforcement agencies have made great efforts to prevent crime and punish habitual offenders.
Robbery is a very serious crime that can escalate into a second-degree felony if the offender is armed or causes harm. If the offender threatens the use of force, but does not cause any physical harm, then it is charged as a third-degree felony. This comes with lesser penalties, but is still a very serious conviction.
Although theft and robbery are used interchangeably at times, they are two separate charges in Ohio. Robbery includes an element of violence that theft does not, making it a more serious charge.
Penalties for robbery charges in Ohio include:
Your robbery defense attorney can deploy different strategies to help reduce these penalties.
With over 15 years of experience providing strong representation to numerous clients in Mentor, our team at Fortress Law Group, LLC can tailor strategies to aid with your specific case. The first thing we will do is look at the evidence the prosecution has against you and uncover ways to challenge this evidence.
We may be able to argue that the state’s team cannot prove every element of the robbery, such as intent, beyond a reasonable doubt. Another common defense would be to claim mistaken identity. This can be used if there is not enough evidence to prove that you were at the scene when the robbery occurred. Our team will question the validity of the state’s witnesses and provide an alibi if possible.
If your rights were violated by law enforcement during an illegal search and seizure, our team can have any evidence gathered suppressed in court. If the evidence includes an alleged weapon, you may be able to achieve a lesser charge with lower penalties.
Protect Your Reputation and Future — Speak With a Defense Attorney Now
Many factors contribute to the cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Ohio. With no set amount, all lawyers’ fees vary based on the complexity of your case, the attorney’s experience, location, and the length of proceedings.
Most attorneys will charge an hourly rate versus a flat fee. More senior attorneys or attorneys located in large metropolitan areas will cost more than newer attorneys in rural areas.
There are many ways to “win” a robbery case or achieve a favorable legal outcome. This could be an acquittal, dismissal of charges, or a reduction in conviction and penalties. The outcome of your case depends greatly upon early intervention from a qualified Mentor robbery defense lawyer.
Your lawyer will analyze every aspect of your case and the charges law enforcement has against you, and develop a strategy to help you move forward with your life.
Penalties for robbery charges in Ohio range from 1 year in prison up to 10 years, depending on the element of the crime. Robbery with force or threat of force is a 3rd degree felony, which in Ohio is punishable by at least 1 year in prison. An aggravated felony is the most serious robbery charge. This involves a weapon and/or causes serious harm to the victim and can be punished by up to 10 years in prison.
The main difference between robbery and theft in Mentor, Ohio is that theft only involves taking property without consent. Robbery is using force or threatening the use of force to take property. The crime of robbery includes the element of making the victim fear for their safety or life and is more serious than theft. Theft can be tried as a misdemeanor in Ohio, but robberies are always classified as felonies and carry harsher penalties.
The penalties and lifelong consequences of a robbery charge can be devastating. Do not risk your freedom by attempting to navigate this alone. With the help of our skilled team, the court can reduce charges and limit the penalties you are facing.
At Fortress Law Group, LLC, we put our clients first. We will meticulously review the elements of your case and develop a defense strategy to help you achieve a favorable outcome. Protect your future. Contact our firm today.
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“Attorney Matt Bangerter and his administrator Mia made it easy for me to provide the information they needed for my case through their online portal. Mia was always available to answer questions. Today, at court, Matt negotiated an incredibly positive outcome. I am pleased to recommend Fortress Law Group, LLC for your legal matters.” – Linda
★★★★★
“I can’t thank Matt enough for everything he did for me during my case. From the start he was honest knowledgeable and trustworthy. In court he was confident and professional, it was clear he knew exactly what he was doing. If you are in a tough spot and need someone to fight for you I highly recommend Fortress Law Group.” – Sarah
★★★★★
“Mr. Bangerter is a very professional lawyer. All questions were kept confidential and answered quickly. If needed would definitely use his services again.” – Lynn Hupp


Founder, Fortress Law Group, LLC
Matthew draws on his unique background as a former Assistant Prosecutor and his scientific expertise in molecular genetics to bring unparalleled precision and strategy to criminal defense in Northeast Ohio. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor charges, serious felony indictments, or federal prosecution, he builds defense strategies rooted in forensic evidence analysis, cutting-edge legal theory, and an unwavering commitment to protecting your constitutional rights and positioning you for the strongest outcome in court.