Q: Is it possible to get 18 months for armed robbery
A:
In order to determine a "range" for a specific crime, you need to look at the sentencing guidelines. You can find them online for the District of Columbia at http://scdc.dc.gov/publication/2014-voluntary-sentencing-guidelines-manual. You need to know both the offense being charged, and any enhancements or aggravating elements that could make the crime more serious. The most common form of enhancement is prior offenses.
Like many jurisdictions, DC works on a point system. For example, prior convictions for serious crimes carries a "+ point score" of +3. Misdemeanors are +1. Generally, any conviction AND sentence within 10 years will add points to the score table.
Armed robbery itself falls on master group 5 with a range from 36 months to 120 months. Although these are suggestive (voluntary) guidelines, the Court will almost always follow them. Of course, enhancements or aggravating factors will make this much higher.
To deviate from this, you need an excellent and compelling reason. Speak to your attorney -- or contact us and we can help.
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