One of the most serious of robbery crimes is bank robbery. A robbery is stealing items that do not belong to you while using violence or making others think that you will use violence. Although there is a slight chance that if you commit bank robbery, you will face a state charge, for the most part, all bank robberies are considered federal crimes.
A bank robbery charge is a serious criminal offense that usually calls for severe penalties under the law, whether state or federal. If you find yourself charged with this crime, you must be aware of the charges, the law, and the possible consequences.
What Happens If You Are Facing Bank Robbery Charges?
If the government is charging you with bank robbery, you are most likely facing federal criminal charges. Federal law as it stands today will charge a person with federal bank robbery if that person by force, violence, or intimidation takes money or property belonging to any bank, credit union, or savings and loan association. The institution, however, must be a member of the Federal Reserve System or insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIC) or the National Credit Union Administration.
Being faced with federal charges means more than just having to appear in federal court. A federal crime carries heftier penalties than state charges. Under 18 USC 2113(a), if you are convicted of a bank robbery because you used force, violence, or intimidation to steal property from a bank or other institutions defined by the law, you can face up to 20 years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines.
Looking For The Right Federal Crimes Attorney
When your life and freedom are in question, you need the right person by your side. When looking for an attorney to represent you in a federal case, look for someone who has not only represented clients in federal court but who also has extensive knowledge of federal law.
Furthermore, a good federal crimes attorney should be knowledgeable in the law and local norms. Meaning, a good defense attorney will know the court, judges, and prosecutors handling your case. Knowing who you are up against will better prepare your attorney to provide the best defense for your case.
The Bottom Line When Facing Federal Bank Robbery Charges
If charged with a federal bank robbery, it is essential to seek legal help right away. Due to the severity of the charge, the enormous jail time and fines a defendant may face, a bank robbery charge is not a simple matter. You must take heed to find an attorney that can help you understand what you are facing and help you fight the charges.
The criminal defense attorneys at Vinas & Graham have more than 30 years of experience handling federal cases. As former prosecutors, they understand not only the law but also the system. If you are looking for an attorney in the Houston area to represent you in your bank robbery case or any other federal crime, follow the law firm of Vinas& Graham on Facebook for more information or contact them today for an initial consultation.
