When does Robbery become Extortion? =================================== There is a lot of overlap between the criminal offences of robbery and extortion. However, there are also significant differences and it is important to understand what the requirements are for each offence to make it clear which applies in the relevant circumstances. **If you have been, or are being, extorted, click the link below to contact our expert R&P Solicitors.** [BOOK CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact "BOOK CONSULTATION") What is robbery? ---------------- [Robbery](https://www.cps.gov.uk/legal-guidance/theft-act-offences)falls under the Theft Act 1968 and is defined as follows: "A person is guilty of robbery if he steals, and immediately before or at the time of doing so, and in order to do so, he uses force on any person or puts or seeks to put any person in fear of being then and there subjected to force". Robbery is the combination of stealing (the offence of theft) with the threat of violence. Theft is defined as dishonestly appropriating property belonging to another with the intention of permanently depriving the other of it. The timing of the threat of violence is very important for the offence of robbery to be made out. If the act of theft is complete before the threat is made, then this will not satisfy the requirements for robbery. The force must be used with the intent to steal. If force is used, and then following this the defendant decides to commit theft, then this is not robbery- there would be an assault followed by a theft. There is no specification as to what level of force needs to be used to qualify under the definition of robbery. What is extortion? ------------------ [Extortion](https://vardags.com/law-guide/extortion/what-is-extortion)also involves the use of threats of physical harm against the victim or another person to obtain money, property or services. The offender will use threats, force, coercion or intimidation to ensure their demands are fulfilled. When does robbery evolve into extortion? ---------------------------------------- Although there is a lot of overlap between the two offences, there are some very important differences. The issue of consent -------------------- One of the main differences revolves around consent. For robbery to occur, the victim will not be giving consent for the items to be taken and instead they are taken by force. However, with extortion- there is a degree of consent (albeit unwittingly) and the victim does agree to the defendant taking the items to prevent the threat from occurring. ### The issue of timing Another difference is when the threat will occur. For robbery to have taken place, the threat has to be of immediate physical harm. With extortion, the threat of harm does not have to be at that point- it can be in the future and this will still amount of the offence of extortion being committed. The information on this website is intended as a guide and does not constitute legal advice. Vardags do not accept liability for any errors in the information on this website, nor any losses stemming from reliance upon the statements made herein. All articles and pages aim to reflect the legal position at time they were published, and may have been rendered obsolete by subsequent developments in the law. Should you require specialist advice, tailored to your situation, please see how Vardags can help you. What our clients say -------------------- I would like to say working with the staff at Vardags was a great support to me at a difficult time of my life but with their support and sensitivity I was able to get through the experience with less stress and ease. If anyone... is looking for a good legal team I would recommend Vardags. They may cost a bit more but will give you good service. Brenda Hart Me and my son will forever will be grateful that we had such a wonderful team protecting us in such difficult times. Rahul Verma Knowledgeable, respectful and empathetic service and team. Michelle Ravden Thanks to Emma and the team for the outstanding handling of my case. Throughout the months of my ongoing case I was kept informed and updated at all times never left wondering what was happening or where I stood. From meeting... Emma I felt instantly that my case was in good (understatement) hands, she has a friendly personal approach as well as so much expertise in the handling of family law cases. I feel so grateful to have had Emma and her team handle my case and for the outcome! Thank you! Emily Calvin The Vardags team are exceptionally knowledgable and strategic but also, and most importantly, they are confident and reassuring in a time when one can feel most vulnerable. Robert Douge Outstanding firm and of highest level of professionalism. I would highly recommend Vardags as best in class in what they do. Sandip Kotecha