Robbery Extortion in Frankfurt – Criminal Defence & Nationwide Representation
Facing an allegation of robbery extortion (§ 255 StGB) immediately creates intense pressure. Where violence or threats of present danger to life or limb are alleged, high penalties and intrusive measures can follow even during the investigation. Our Frankfurt-based firm Buchert Jacob Peter supports individuals and companies with experienced defence — discreetly, swiftly and nationwide. Learn how proceedings unfold in our overview of the course of criminal proceedings and German criminal procedure.
If you are facing criminal allegations in Germany – for example relating to the offence or procedural situation described on this page – you should seek early advice from our English-speaking criminal defence solicitors and specialist lawyers for criminal law in Frankfurt. We defend private individuals and companies nationwide and guide you safely through investigations, police questioning and court hearings.
For a confidential initial assessment of your situation and the development of a tailored defence strategy, you can reach us on +49 69 710 33 330 or by email at kanzlei@dr-buchert.de.
Problem: What does robbery extortion mean — and where are the risks?
Robbery extortion uses the means of robbery — violence or threats of present danger — to force a disposition of property. Unlike robbery, the focus is often not on taking, but on coerced action by the victim (e.g. handing over money, revealing PINs or hiding places). The boundary to robbery can be fluid; crucial are the circumstances, the victim’s will, and the outward appearance of “giving” vs. “taking”. Early legal classification prevents misjudgments that can quickly lead to detention, searches or seizures. See entries on initial suspicion and indictment.
A key element is the “present” danger: a threat may be present even as an ongoing danger that can materialise at any moment. This matters where time is ostensibly given, yet a real, immediate pressure continues. In multi-party constellations, threats to third parties or corporate contexts, precise findings are needed. We structure the facts, draw clear distinctions and protect your rights from the first report onwards.
Solution: Consistent criminal defence — early, structured, decisive
We immediately build a strategy focused on clarity and speed: we secure evidence, prevent risky solo statements and shield you from premature questioning. File access is central — only the investigation file shows what actually exists; until then, use your right to remain silent. We handle police summonses and scheduling (summons for interrogation) and act swiftly in urgent situations (arrest, search, imminent detention). For definitions and rights of the accused, see the accused in German proceedings and access to files.
Approach: How we work in § 255 cases
- Initial assessment and protection against hasty statements; communication with police/prosecution.
- Rapid file access and analysis of evidence, sequence of events and any contradictions.
- Testing elements (threats, “present danger”, distinction from taking), exclusionary rules and coercive measures.
- Strategy for discontinuance, conditions or an application to discontinue; alternatively, full trial preparation.
- Follow-up, legal remedies (appeal) and consequences management through to finality.
Where corporate interests are affected — threats targeting information, trade secrets or payment flows — we combine classic defence with corporate-crime expertise and align internal measures accordingly. In potential side matters such as money laundering, we keep the overall case in view.
Your advantages with Buchert Jacob Peter
- Substantive depth: Precise assessment of threats, present danger and participation acts; experience with complex, multi-party and corporate cases.
- Experienced specialists: Strong background in general and white-collar defence with interfaces to employment and insolvency criminal law.
- Early course-setting: From first report through investigation to possible remedies — we plan ahead and keep options open.
- Transparency: Clear recommendations, realistic options and balanced risk assessment — including strategic use of agreements where sensible.
When does a threat become “robbery-like”?
The threshold is crossed when violence or a threat of present danger to life or limb is used to force the act. Threats may also concern third parties if the harm can be attributed to the victim. Not every harsh announcement suffices — but the threshold is often reached sooner than expected. We examine whether “present danger” truly existed, explore alternative fact patterns and draw the right conclusions from the evidence.
From investigation to trial: setting the right course
If charges are filed, the specific modalities must be worked out: giving or taking? Any true consent? How did the coercive situation shape conduct? These points affect classification and sentencing. We prepare the main hearing, structure evidence motions and consider calibrated understandings without weakening your position.
FAQ – Robbery Extortion (§ 255 StGB)
- How does robbery extortion differ from robbery?
Robbery centres on taking; robbery extortion on a forced disposition of property. In borderline cases, the overall picture decides. - What counts as “present danger”?
Also a continuing danger that can materialise at any moment. The concrete context is decisive. - May threats concern third parties?
Yes, if the harm is attributable to the victim. We assess scope, proximity and seriousness. - What penalties are possible?
Sentencing is aligned with robbery provisions; qualifiers (e.g. carrying certain objects) can increase the range. Active defence and precise fact-work can improve outcomes — up to discontinuance. - Can proceedings be discontinued?
Depending on facts and culpability, discontinuance with or without conditions is possible. We evaluate prospects and, if helpful, a carefully framed understanding. - How should I react to a police summons?
Do not make statements without defence. We take over communication, request file access and plan strategy. - What if there is a search or arrest warrant?
Stay calm, sign nothing unchecked and contact us immediately. We review legality and proportionality and protect your rights.
Call-to-Action: Get reliable advice now
Need rapid support regarding an allegation under § 255 StGB? Contact us — confidentially, carefully and with a focus on robust solutions. We act in Frankfurt and nationwide. Phone +49 69 710 33 330 · Email kanzlei@dr-buchert.de · Contact page.
Contact us – Your specialist criminal lawyers in Frankfurt am Main and nationwide
- Frank M. Peter, Specialist Lawyer for Criminal Law
- Dr. Caroline Jacob, Specialist Lawyer for Criminal Law
- Of Counsel: Prof. Dr. Frank Peter Schuster
- Cooperation Partner: Tax Advisor and former Tax Investigator Frank Wehrheim
Our law firm Buchert Jacob Peter has been based in Frankfurt am Main for over 25 years with experienced criminal defence lawyers. We represent clients nationwide.
Contact: Phone +49 69 710 33 330 · Email kanzlei@dr-buchert.de
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