INTRODUCTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION
Section 343 of the Criminal Code of Canada defines robbery as the act of stealing while using violence or threats, causing harm to the victim, or being armed with a weapon.
SECTION WORDING
343 Every one commits robbery who (a) steals, and for the purpose of extorting whatever is stolen or to prevent or overcome resistance to the stealing, uses violence or threats of violence to a person or property; (b) steals from any person and, at the time he steals or immediately before or immediately thereafter, wounds, beats, strikes or uses any personal violence to that person; (c) assaults any person with intent to steal from him; or (d) steals from any person while armed with an offensive weapon or imitation thereof.
EXPLANATION
Section 343 of the Criminal Code of Canada is concerned with the offence of robbery. The section highlights four different scenarios in which a person can be charged with robbery. Firstly, if a person steals and uses force or threats of force to extort or prevent resistance, it will be considered as a robbery. Secondly, if during a theft, the thief inflicts physical harm or uses violence on the victim, it will also be regarded as robbery. Thirdly, if a person assaults another individual with the intent to steal from them, it will be considered as robbery. Fourthly, if a person steals from someone while carrying an offensive weapon, or something that can be mistaken as such a weapon, it will be categorized as robbery. This section emphasizes that robbery is a very serious crime that involves the use or threat of violence, and it carries severe legal consequences. In summary, section 343 of the Criminal Code of Canada provides a detailed definition of what constitutes robbery and sets out the various ways in which a person can be charged with this offence. By clearly specifying the circumstances of a robbery, the section enables law enforcement agencies and judicial systems to take appropriate actions to ensure public safety and maintain the rule of law.
COMMENTARY
Section 343 of the Criminal Code of Canada deals with the offence of robbery. This offence is often seen as one of the most serious property crimes as it involves violence or the threat of violence. The section lays out four specific situations in which a person can be charged with robbery. The first situation is where a person steals something and uses violence or threats of violence to the victim or the victim's property with the intention of extorting whatever is stolen or preventing any resistance to the theft. This is the most common form of robbery and is often referred to as armed robbery" when a weapon is used. The second situation is where a person steals from someone and uses violence either immediately before or after the theft. The use of violence in this situation can be seen as an aggravating factor as it increases the harm caused to the victim beyond just losing their property. The third situation is where a person assaults someone with the intention of stealing from them. In this situation, the theft may not have been successful, but the use of violence against the victim still warrants criminal charges. The fourth situation is where a person steals from someone while armed with any type of weapon. This situation is also seen as an aggravating factor as the use of a weapon elevates the risk of harm to the victim and can cause increased fear. Section 343 of the Criminal Code is important because it defines the threshold for what is considered robbery and sets out the penalties for those who commit this offence. The severity of the offence is reflected in the potential punishment, which can range from a minimum sentence of four years in prison to life imprisonment for those who commit robbery with a firearm. Robbery is a crime that can have both physical and psychological effects on the victim. Victims may suffer physical injuries such as bruises, broken bones, or even death. Psychological harm can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or a fear of leaving the house. Society also feels the effects of robbery as it undermines public safety and can lead to a lack of trust in the justice system. In conclusion, Section 343 of the Criminal Code of Canada exists to protect individuals from violent and threatening behaviour when having their property stolen. This offence is taken seriously by the legal system, and those who commit it can face severe consequences. The existence of this section reinforces the importance of respecting others' property and safety, and is a reminder of the values that underpin Canadian society.
STRATEGY
When dealing with Section 343 of the Criminal Code of Canada, it is important to consider the implications of such a serious offence. Robbery is a violent crime that often involves serious injury or even death of the victim. Therefore, the approach to this type of case should be careful, thorough, and strategic. One strategic consideration when dealing with a robbery charge is identifying the elements of the offence. A successful defence lawyer will know the specifics of the robbery offence and be able to determine which elements of the offence the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt. For example, if the accused was not armed with a weapon during the robbery, the defence lawyer could argue that the accused should not face a more severe sentence for an armed robbery offence. Another strategy that can be employed is plea bargaining. If the evidence against the accused is overwhelming, it may be beneficial to plead guilty to a lesser offence in exchange for a reduced sentence. This strategy can save time and money in court and could result in a more favourable outcome for the accused. It is also important to consider the potential sentence for a robbery conviction. A conviction for robbery carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment in Canada. Therefore, it is important to argue for a sentence that is both fair and appropriate for the specific circumstances of the case. A good defence lawyer will argue for a sentence that takes into account the accused's criminal record, their role in the offence, and the nature of the crime. During a trial, it is important to challenge the prosecution's evidence. This can be done by identifying flaws in witness statements, inconsistencies in the evidence, or by pointing out discrepancies in the forensic evidence. A skilled defence lawyer will carefully examine the evidence and present a convincing argument that will cast doubt on the prosecution's case. Ultimately, the key to success when dealing with a robbery charge is having a strong defence team that can effectively rebut the prosecution's case and argue for a fair and reasonable sentence. This may require the recruitment of expert witnesses, private investigators, and forensic analysts, as well as having an experienced defence lawyer who will fight zealously for the accused's rights and freedom.