Bank Robbery Lawyer in Arlington, Virginia — Federal Defense
Bank robbery is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 2113, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. A conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence, often decades in prison. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a bank robbery lawyer in Arlington Virginia with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Federal Bank Robbery Statute and Penalties
Bank robbery is defined under federal law, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 2113. This statute covers the taking or attempting to take anything of value by force, violence, or intimidation from a bank, credit union, or savings and loan association. The law also covers entering any bank with intent to commit a felony affecting the bank. Because banks are federally insured, these crimes fall under federal jurisdiction, not state law.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the gravity of federal charges. A bank robbery lawyer in Arlington Virginia from our team can analyze the federal indictment, the evidence gathered by the FBI or other agencies, and build a defense strategy focused on your specific circumstances.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the federal statute, refer to the official U.S. Code: 18 U.S.C. § 2113 (bank robbery and incidental crimes). For local court procedures and rules, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Facing Federal Bank Robbery Charges in Arlington
Federal bank robbery cases in Arlington are investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. The process is complex and moves quickly. An experienced robbery attorney will immediately work to protect your rights during questioning, challenge the legality of evidence collection, and negotiate with federal prosecutors when possible.
- Initial Investigation/Arrest: The FBI or local police acting on federal authority will conduct the investigation. If arrested, you will have an initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge.
- Detention Hearing: The government will argue whether you should be held without bond pending trial. Your lawyer will present arguments for your release.
- Indictment & Arraignment: A federal grand jury will issue an indictment. At arraignment, you will formally hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your defense team will review all evidence (discovery) and file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial in federal district court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are often harsh for violent crime defense cases like bank robbery.
Potential Penalties for Federal Bank Robbery
In Arlington, a federal bank robbery conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 2113 carries severe mandatory penalties, including decades in federal prison, where parole is not available.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bank Robbery (by force/violence) | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Mandatory minimums apply if a dangerous weapon is used; supervised release after prison. |
| Bank Robbery (armed or assault) | Federal Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $250,000 | Enhanced penalties; consecutive sentences for brandishing or discharging a firearm. |
| Attempted Bank Robbery | Federal Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | Same penalties can apply even if no money was taken. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys, including former prosecutor Mr. Sris and Of Counsel Matthew Greene, bring direct insight into the government’s strategies in complex federal cases. We approach each case with a full review of the investigation, witness statements, and forensic evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. For a bank robbery lawyer in Arlington Virginia, this foundational experience is vital.
Our team, including Mr. Sris, has handled numerous serious felony cases. While every case is unique, our collective experience allows us to provide a vigorous defense case-specific to the specific allegations you face. A robbery charges lawyer from our firm will work to protect your future.
Local Defense for Arlington Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — By appointment only
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
Our Arlington location serves clients throughout the area, including the neighborhoods of Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. As a bank robbery lawyer near Arlington, we are accessible for meetings to discuss your federal case. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 — all meetings are by appointment only.
Bank Robbery Defense FAQs
What makes bank robbery a federal crime?
Yes. Bank robbery is a federal crime because most banks are federally insured by the FDIC. This federal interest gives the U.S. government jurisdiction under 18 U.S.C. § 2113, meaning you will be prosecuted in federal court, not Virginia state court.
What are the possible defenses to a federal bank robbery charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent, duress, challenging the evidence (like faulty eyewitness ID or illegal search), and negotiating for a lesser charge. An experienced armed robbery defense lawyer will evaluate all angles.
Is there a mandatory minimum sentence for bank robbery?
Yes. Mandatory minimum sentences apply, especially if a dangerous weapon was used or brandished during the robbery. These minimums range from 5 to 10 years also to the base sentence, and judges cannot sentence below them.
Should I speak to the FBI if they contact me?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a robbery attorney. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
What is the difference between state and federal robbery charges?
State robbery charges are for theft from individuals or businesses without federal insurance. Federal bank robbery charges specifically involve federally insured financial institutions, carry longer sentences, are investigated by federal agencies, and are prosecuted in U.S. District Court, which has different procedures than state court.
Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding a bank robbery charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a confidential consultation by appointment.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related charges in Alexandria. If you are facing other serious charges, our Arlington criminal defense lawyers can help.