Bank Robbery Lawyer New Jersey
Some crimes are a gray area of the law, while others are clearly black and white. Robbery is clearly a crime, which is why you need to retain the assistance of a bank robbery lawyer in New Jersey from Lorraine Gauli-Rufo, Esq. & Associates if you are being accused of robbing a bank. You do not want to leave something as important as your freedom up to chance. Bank robbery is a federal crime, so it can come with great repercussions.
Defenses for Bank Robbery
One of the simplest defenses for bank robbery is a case of mistaken identity. This happens more than you may think. Witnesses do not always have the best memory and security photos can be blurry and hard to see. If you did not commit the crime that you are being accused of, your lawyer will likely want to share an alibi as to why you were physically unable to commit the crime. It is the prosecution’s job to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a person is guilty, so if you did not do it, in theory, this should prove difficult. Innocent people do go to prison, though, so you should absolutely have an experienced bank robbery lawyer on your side.
If you did commit the crime, it may be in your best interest to plead guilty. This all depends on the evidence that is benign presented against you and the charges that are being put on you. Your bank robbery lawyer will understand the federal laws surrounding bank robbery and may want to help negotiate a fair punishment for the crime committed. Ultimately, your lawyer will leave these big decisions up to you, but we will want to go over each scenario in great detail to determine what the best option would be. You may need to serve jail time or pay fines, but ultimately your freedom is the most important thing. It will also be important to negotiate what will – and more importantly, what will not – be on your permanent record as well.
Contact a Lawyer Right Away
You do not want to wait to retain legal representation if you are being accused of a crime. Whether you are innocent or guilty, a lawyer will be on your team and wants to protect your rights. You should never speak until you have a lawyer on your side, as you do not want to say anything that will be detrimental to your case and be used against you. Your lawyer can speak on your behalf and will know how to navigate through the entire process.
What Are the Penalties for Bank Robbery?
If you’ve been accused of robbing a bank, you will face harsh penalties. If you’re convicted of first-degree robbery, which involves the use of a weapon, you may face decades in prison and a fine up to $200,000. Even after you have successfully completed your sentence, you may still feel repercussions. A bank robbery conviction will go on your criminal record, which may make it more difficult to secure employment, get approved for an apartment and get accepted into college.
If you aren’t a current U.S. citizen, a bank robbery conviction can also negatively affect your immigration status. Since bank robbery is considered an aggravated felony, you may likely get deported.
What Is the Difference Between Robbery and Theft?
Robbery involves using force or threats against another person to steal possessions. Theft, on the other hand, refers to stealing without the use of any kind of violence against someone else.
What Does the Prosecutor Have to Prove in a Bank Robbery Case?
To convict you of bank robbery, a prosecutor has to successfully establish that you attempted or committed a theft, threatened or used force to commit the theft, the force or threat happened during the theft and you acted intentionally.
Should I Speak to the Police After Getting Charged with Bank Robbery?
If you’ve been charged with bank robbery, police will likely ask to speak to you about your case. They may even claim that they will go easier on you if you cooperate. Don’t trust their word. Police have no power to reduce criminal charges. They only want to talk to you to get information that they can use against you. Politely tell them that you don’t wish to speak to them without a lawyer present.
How Soon Should I Retain a Lawyer?
If you’re facing a bank robbery charge, it’s important to hire an experienced bank robber lawyer in New Jersey as soon as possible. As mentioned above, a bank robbery conviction carries stiff penalties, and you want the best possible defense. A lawyer can review your case and advise you of your legal options. He or she may suggest accepting a plea bargain or taking your case to trial, depending on the unique circumstances of your case. Having a skilled lawyer on your side may improve your likelihood of a favorable outcome in your case.
