Westchester Federal Bank Robbery Law State and Why You Need To Hire a Federal Bank Robbery Lawyer

Getting charged with bank robbery in Westchester County can be an incredibly scary and overwhelming experience. As a Westchester resident facing these serious accusations, it’s crucial that you understand the specific laws around bank robbery in New York, and why having an experienced federal bank robbery lawyer on your side is so important.

Overview of Bank Robbery Laws in New York

In New York, bank robbery falls under the state’s robbery laws. Robbery is essentially defined as forcibly stealing – meaning taking property by using or threatening to use physical force. Bank robbery specifically refers to forcibly taking money or property from a bank, credit union, or other financial institution[1].

While there are other ways to illegally take money from banks, like embezzlement or check fraud, robbery involves things like:

• Using a weapon to force a teller to hand over cash
• Passing a note to a teller demanding money and implying harm if they don’t comply

Even just passing a threatening note is enough to be charged with bank robbery in NY, because it can reasonably be seen as intimidation or threat of force[1].

Bank robbery is viewed as an extremely serious crime in New York. There are a few key reasons why[1]:

• Robberies involving banks often result in additional charges like weapons offenses, assault, or even murder.
• Bank robberies tend to involve factors that increase severity, like displaying weapons, stealing large sums, and having accomplices.
• There is a high risk of harm to third parties like customers.
• Even just attempting bank robbery is punished harshly.

As a result, bank robbery convictions typically result in lengthy prison sentences of many years. And if you have any kind of criminal history, especially violent crimes, the punishment will likely be even more severe.

Why Federal Charges Are Common for Bank Robbery

In many bank robbery cases, you may face federal charges rather than just state charges in New York[1]. There are two main reasons why:

1. Federal robbery laws are broader in scope

Federal bank robbery laws cover not just banks, but also credit unions, ATMs, armored trucks, bank messengers, and more. So if the robbery involved any type of federally-insured financial institution, federal charges are likely[2].

2. Harsher sentencing under federal law

Sentencing for federal bank robbery can include up to 20 years in prison, fines up to $250,000, or both[2]. So federal prosecutors will often get involved to pursue these harsher punishments.

Some key factors that can increase your sentence under federal law include[2]:

• Using violence or weapons during the robbery
• Having previous convictions
• Stealing a large amount of money

So due to the broader laws and tougher sentences, federal bank robbery charges are very common.

Why You Need an Experienced Federal Bank Robbery Lawyer

Facing federal bank robbery charges in Westchester County can feel terrifying. But having the right legal representation on your side can make all the difference in reaching the best possible outcome for your specific case. Here are some key reasons why working with an experienced federal bank robbery lawyer is so crucial:

Navigating complex federal laws

As discussed, federal bank robbery laws are quite complex, broad, and carry severe sentences. An attorney well-versed in these laws can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case based on technicalities or exceptions in the law.

Arguing against federal charges

In some cases, experienced lawyers may be able to argue that federal charges are not appropriate, leading to the case remaining within the NY court system rather than federal.

Negotiating pleas or reduced sentencing

Skilled lawyers know how to negotiate with prosecutors to secure plea deals or reduced sentencing when possible. This can make an enormous difference in the outcome.

Building strong defense arguments

There are many avenues for building a strong defense in bank robbery cases, which lawyers are experts in developing. Some examples include arguing mistaken identity, lack of solid evidence, or demonstrating actions that don’t meet legal standards for “intimidation” [1].

Humanizing you to the judge

Your lawyer can also present mitigating factors to humanize you and advocate for leniency in sentencing. This can make a big impact on the judge’s sentencing decisions.

Avoiding mandatory minimums

For certain factors like weapon involvement, mandatory minimum sentences come into play. An experienced lawyer may be able to avoid the application of these.

Managing emotions and stress

Finally, a knowledgeable lawyer can help manage the overwhelming emotions and anxiety while focusing on building your defense. This provides invaluable support through the legal process.

Conclusion

Being arrested for bank robbery in Westchester County and facing federal charges is extremely serious. But working with a federal bank robbery lawyer who understands both NY state laws and complex federal laws can prove invaluable. Their experience with building strong defenses, negotiating reduced charges, and advocating for fair sentencing based on the specifics of your case can make all the difference in the outcome. If you or a loved one are facing bank robbery accusations in Westchester, don’t go it alone – consult with a knowledgeable lawyer immediately.