Bank robbery is a federal crime and will be thoroughly investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). When someone becomes the subject of a theft charges investigation, an experienced Houston area bank robbery lawyer should be retained. Even a relatively minor bank robbery conviction can result in a substantial prison sentence.
According to the Texas Penal Code, a robbery takes place when a person threatens injury or makes someone else think they’re in danger. Pretty much every bank and credit union in the state of Texas is insured by the federal government, making bank robbery a federal crime. The commission of any robbery crime is taken quite seriously by federal prosecutors. It is vital that a bank robbery suspect obtain legal representation at the very beginning of an investigation. The legality of all evidence and the credibility of witnesses must be challenged early on in a bank robbery case.
Every bank robbery case is unique. The exact criminal charges and related penalties will vary in accordance with the facts of the case. A convicted bank robber is subject to the following potential penalties:
Defending a bank robbery suspect begins by carefully reviewing the evidence and charges. It is often the case that evidence in a bank robbery case was obtained in violation of a defendant’s legal rights. A knowledgeable bank robbery attorney will act quickly to have illegal evidence and testimony suppressed. Depending on the strength of the evidence, a defendant will be advised whether the bank robbery charge should be litigated in court or a plea bargain should be negotiated with the prosecution. A successful plea agreement can result in reduced charges and penalties.
The time to retain the services of a bank robbery lawyer is at the very beginning of an FBI investigation. A good defense lawyer who is experienced with defending criminal clients in federal court will definitely be required. The importance of uncovering evidence that is likely to corroborate a defendant’s account of an alleged crime cannot be overestimated.
Even after a convicted felon is released from a federal penitentiary, a bank robbery conviction will continue to make life difficult. Obtaining employment, security clearances and housing is especially problematic for a convicted person.
Speak with Brett Podolsky at 713-227-0087 to learn about your defense options for a bank robbery charge.
