Facing Armed Robbery Charges In LA? Here’s How A Strong Defense Can Protect Your Future

When Your Freedom And Future Are On The Line

Few things are as terrifying as being accused of a serious crime like armed robbery. One moment, you’re living your life just working, supporting your family, and planning for the future. The next, you’re staring down charges that could strip away everything you’ve built: your reputation, your career, even your freedom.

If you’re in this situation, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure of where to turn. The legal system can feel like a maze designed to trap you, with prosecutors and law enforcement already building a case against you.

But here’s the truth: You don’t have to face this alone. The decisions you make now, especially who you choose to defend you, could mean the difference between a future defined by this charge and one where you move forward with your life intact.

At the Law Offices of Donald J. Matson, PC, we understand the weight of what you’re up against. Attorney Donald Matson has spent over two decades standing between his clients and the criminal justice system, fighting to protect their rights, their futures, and their peace of mind.

If you’ve been accused of armed robbery in Los Angeles or the surrounding areas, this is the moment to act.

What Exactly Qualifies As Armed Robbery Under California Law?

Armed robbery is one of the most serious criminal charges you can face in California. But what does it actually mean in the eyes of the law?

Under California Penal Code § 211, robbery is defined as the felonious taking of personal property from another person against their will, accomplished through force or fear. When a weapon, real or implied, is involved, the charge escalates to armed robbery (Penal Code § 212.5), which carries far harsher penalties.

Key Elements Prosecutors Must Prove:

1. You took property that wasn’t yours (even momentarily).
2. The property was taken from another person’s immediate presence (e.g., snatching a purse from someone’s hand).
3. You used force or fear to take it (e.g., threatening violence, brandishing a weapon, or even implying you had one).
4. You intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property.

Important Note: You don’t have to actually use a weapon to be charged with armed robbery. If the victim believed you were armed, even if you weren’t, the charge can still apply. This is why so many cases hinge on witness testimony, surveillance footage, and the credibility of the accused.

If you’re facing these charges, prosecutors are already gathering evidence to build their case. The sooner you involve a defense attorney, the sooner you can start fighting back.

The Penalties For Armed Robbery In Los Angeles: What’s At Stake?

A conviction for armed robbery in California isn’t just a legal setback; it’s a life-altering event. The penalties are severe, and they extend far beyond prison walls.

Criminal Penalties:

• State Prison Sentence: Armed robbery is a felony punishable by 3 to 9 years in state prison under Penal Code § 213(a)(2). If a firearm was actually used, enhancements under Penal Code § 12022.53 can add 10 years or more to your sentence.
• Strike Under California’s Three Strikes Law: A conviction counts as a “strike”, meaning future offenses, even minor ones, could result in doubled sentences or life imprisonment.
• Fines: Up to $10,000 or more, depending on the circumstances.
• Probation: If granted, it often comes with strict conditions, including regular check-ins, drug testing, and restrictions on travel or employment.

Collateral Consequences (The Hidden Costs):

Even after serving your time, the consequences linger:

• Employment: Many employers automatically disqualify applicants with felony convictions, especially for violent crimes.
• Housing: Landlords can legally deny your application based on your criminal record.
• Gun Rights: A felony conviction means losing your right to own or possess firearms permanently.
• Immigration Status: If you’re not a U.S. citizen, a conviction could lead to deportation or inadmissibility.
• Social Stigma: The label of “armed robber” follows you, affecting relationships, community standing, and even mental health.

This is why your defense can’t just focus on the courtroom; it must also protect your future beyond it.

Why Experience Matters: How Donald Matson Fights For Your Rights

When your freedom is on the line, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a fierce advocate who understands the system and knows how to challenge it.

Attorney Donald J. Matson has been defending clients against serious criminal charges for over 24 years. He didn’t just study the law; he’s lived it, seeing firsthand how a conviction can derail lives, and how a strong defense can change the outcome.

What Sets Don Apart?

✅ He Treats You Like a Person, Not a Case Number – Don doesn’t see clients as files on a desk. He listens, understands your fears, and fights for you like you’re family.

✅ He Knows How Prosecutors Think – With decades in the courtroom, Don anticipates the prosecution’s strategies and builds a defense to counter them.

✅ He Doesn’t Stop at the Verdict – Even after a case concludes, Don helps clients clear their records through expungement, so they can rebuild their lives.

✅ He’s Recognized for Excellence – Named one of the Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Attorneys in 2024 by The National Trial Lawyers, Don has a track record of winning tough cases.

How Don Builds Your Defense

Every armed robbery case is unique, but Don’s approach is always thorough and aggressive:

• Challenging the Evidence – Was the weapon real? Was it visible? Did the victim actually fear for their safety? Don dismantles weak prosecution arguments.
• Questioning Witness Credibility – Eyewitness testimony is notoriously unreliable. Don exposes inconsistencies and biases.
• Negotiating Reduced Charges – If the evidence is strong, Don fights to lower charges (e.g., from armed robbery to simple robbery or theft) to minimize penalties.
• Exploring Alternative Sentencing – For first-time offenders, Don pursues probation, rehabilitation programs, or community service instead of prison.
• Fighting for Expungement – Even if convicted, Don helps clients seal or dismiss their records later, so they’re not haunted forever.

Bottom Line: Don doesn’t just defend you in court. He defends your future.

“Should I Wait To Hire A Lawyer?”

One of the biggest mistakes people make after an arrest is waiting to hire a lawyer. They think:

• “Maybe the charges will go away.” (They won’t.)
• “I’ll save money by handling it myself.” (You’ll lose far more in the long run.)
• “I’ll talk to the police and explain my side.” (This almost always)

Here’s the reality: The moment you’re arrested, prosecutors and police are building a case against you. Every word you say, even if you think it’s helpful, can be twisted and used to strengthen their argument.

Why You Need A Lawyer Immediately After Arrest

✔ To Protect You During Police Questioning – Police are trained to get confessions, not to help you. A lawyer ensures you don’t say anything that could hurt your case.

✔ To Prevent Illegal Searches or Seizures – If evidence was obtained unlawfully, Don can get it thrown out.

✔ To Start Building Your Defense Early – The sooner Don reviews the evidence, the sooner he can find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

✔ To Avoid Costly Mistakes – Missing a court date, saying the wrong thing to a prosecutor, or accepting a bad plea deal can ruin your chances of a fair outcome.

Time is not on your side. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to fight the charges.

Can You Avoid Prison Time?

If you’re facing armed robbery charges, you’re likely wondering: Is there any way to stay out of prison? The answer is yes, but it depends on the strength of your defense.

How Don Fights to Keep You Out of Prison

1. Challenging the “Armed” Allegation – If the weapon wasn’t real, wasn’t visible, or wasn’t used threateningly, Don can argue for reduced charges.
2. Proving Lack of Intent – If you didn’t intend to permanently take the property (e.g., a misunderstanding or temporary borrowing), this can weaken the prosecution’s case.
3. Negotiating a Plea Deal – In some cases, Don can secure a plea bargain for lesser charges (e.g., theft instead of robbery), which may carry probation instead of prison time.
4. Arguing Self-Defense or Duress – If you were coerced or acting in self-defense, Don can present evidence to justify your actions.
5. Highlighting Mitigating Factors – First-time offenders, strong community ties, or evidence of rehabilitation can persuade judges to show leniency.

Real-World Example: Don once represented a client accused of armed robbery after a misunderstood altercation in a parking lot. By challenging the victim’s testimony and presenting surveillance footage, he got the charges reduced to misdemeanor theft, sparing his client years in prison.

Your case may have defenses you don’t even realize exist. That’s why consulting with Don as soon as possible is critical.

Beyond The Courtroom: Protecting Your Career, Reputation, And Future

A criminal charge doesn’t just affect your legal standing; it threatens everything you’ve worked for:

• Your Job – Many employers fire or demote employees facing felony charges, even before a conviction.
• Your Professional License – If you’re in healthcare, law, finance, or trades, a conviction could revoke your license.
• Your Family – The stress of a criminal case can strain relationships, especially if you’re the primary provider.
• Your Mental Health – The fear of prison, the shame of accusations, and the uncertainty of the future can lead to anxiety, depression, or worse.

Don understands that your life doesn’t pause for a legal battle. That’s why he works to:

✅ Minimize Public Exposure – Keeping your case out of the press when possible.

✅ Negotiate with Employers – In some cases, Don can intervene to protect your job.

✅ Pursue Expungement – If convicted, Don helps clear your record so you can move forward.

✅ Connect You with Support – From counselors to financial advisors, Don ensures you have resources to rebuild.

You’re not just fighting a charge; you’re fighting for your entire future. Don makes sure both are protected.

What to Do Right Now If You’re Facing Armed Robbery Charges

If you or a loved one has been accused of armed robbery in Los Angeles, Pasadena, San Gabriel, Arcadia, or surrounding areas, time is your enemy. Here’s what you should do immediately:

1. Do NOT speak to police without a lawyer present – Anything you say can and will be used against you.
2. Document everything – Write down your version of events while it’s fresh in your mind.
3. Gather evidence – Save texts, receipts, alibis, or witness contacts that could help your case.
4. Call an experienced criminal defense attorney – The sooner Don reviews your case, the stronger your defense will be.

Don’t Face The Law Alone: You Better Call Don, Today.

Facing armed robbery charges is one of the most terrifying and isolating experiences a person can go through. The legal system is designed to overwhelm you, and prosecutors will use every tool at their disposal to secure a conviction. But you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Attorney Donald J. Matson has spent his career standing between his clients and the criminal justice system, fighting to protect their rights, their freedom, and their futures. He’s seen how a strong defense can change lives, and he’s ready to fight for yours.

Your next step is simple: 

Pick up the phone and call (626) 792-1900.

The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have. Don’t let fear or uncertainty paralyze you. Call now, and take the first step toward defending your future.

References

• California Penal Code § 211 (Robbery)
• California Penal Code § 212.5 (Armed Robbery Enhancements)
• California Penal Code § 12022.53 (Firearm Enhancements)
• The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 (2024)