Bank robbery can be a state or federal crime.
Because they hold large amounts of cash, banks are popular robbery targets.
Bank robbery can occur without a firearm or weapon (for instance, a note) or a firearm or weapon. With a weapon or firearm, the charge - at the state level - will be armed robbery. Without a weapon, the charge - at the state level - will be strong-arm robbery.
Armed robbery can carry a life term if committed with a firearm. Strong-arm robbery can carry up to 15 years in prison.
Eric Matheny is a Miami robbery attorney and Broward Robbery attorney.