Bank robbery cases are usually prosecuted in federal court. The penalties for convictions are harsh and typically include federal prison time and significant fines. There are different levels of bank robbery charges, and some are much more serious than others.
If you have been charged with bank robbery, it is important to understand your charges and the penalties you might be facing. Keep reading to learn more about federal bank robbery laws and how a Houston federal crimes attorney can help defend your charges.
Federal Crimes Charges
As mentioned above, bank robbery is usually charged as a federal crime. This means that your case will be brought to federal court by a federal prosecutor. There are separate rules for federal courts, which is why it is crucial to have an experienced bank robbery attorney defending your case.
In addition to different rules, federal laws are separate and independent of state laws. The penalties, including prison time and fines, for these convictions are usually more severe than those for state convictions.
Proving Bank Robbery Charges
If you are charged with bank robbery, the prosecution still must prove its case against you. In general, for a bank robbery conviction, the prosecutor must satisfy the following elements:
- You took or attempted to take money, property, or another thing of value belonging to or in control of a bank, savings and loan association, or federal credit union.
- The bank or other financial institution has its deposits insured by the FDIC, Federal Savings & Loan Corporation, or National Credit Union Administration, and
- You acted to take the money, property, or another thing of value with threats, violence, or intimidation.
Federal bankruptcy laws have been expanded to cover different types of wrongful conduct. Examples of other conduct that also falls under federal bank robbery law include using extortion to take money that was in the custody or care of a covered financial institution or stealing from an ATM or armored vehicle.
Defending Your Charges
Preparing a solid defense is critical when you are charged with bank robbery. Depending on the circumstances of your case, your attorney may decide to pursue one or more defense strategies on your behalf. Lack of intent to steal, you were under duress, and mistaken identity are common bank robbery defenses.
Your attorney will also examine the evidence and police conduct to determine if your constitutional rights were violated. Strategies that your attorney may pursue include seeking a dismissal of charges, negotiating a plea bargain, or defending your charges at trial.
Contact A Houston Bank Robbery And Federal Crimes Attorney
If you or a loved one is facing bank robbery or other federal criminal charges, a Houston bank robbery and federal crimes attorney at Vinas & Graham, PLLC, can help. Call their office at 713-229-9992 or complete their online form for a confidential consultation. They will hear your story, review the charges against you, and discuss potential defense strategies.
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