Aggressively Defending Clients Accused Of Shoplifting Since 1993
In New York, petit larceny is the theft of another party’s property totaling less than $1,000. This is the least serious of the theft crimes in New York, but a conviction can still bring about life-altering consequences. If you or someone you know has been accused of petit larceny, consult a skilled criminal defense attorney right away to defend these charges and minimize penalties.
For more than two decades, attorney Jeffrey DeRoberts has been vigorously defending clients accused of petit theft, shoplifting, grand theft, and other related crimes in Syracuse and throughout New York State. Attorney Jeffrey DeRoberts has in-depth experience in this area of the law and fights hard to obtain a successful outcome for his clients.
What is the difference between shoplifting and petit larceny in New York and what are the penalties?
Larceny falls into two general categories; grand larceny and petit larceny. New York residents accused of stealing property with a value of $1000 or higher are charged with grand larceny, while theft crimes of less than $1000 draw a petit larceny charge. Shoplifting can fall into either category, though most cases of shoplifting involve merchandise that is valued under $1000.
Though not as severe as grand larceny, a petit larceny conviction still carries with it some serious consequences. In New York, petit larceny is categorized as a class A misdemeanor. The punishments are as follows:
- Fines of up to $1000
- Up to one year in jail
- Civil Penalties: Restitution for stolen merchandise
In shoplifting cases, merchants often file civil charges to recover damages for allegedly stolen merchandise as well as attorney’s fees.
Having a conviction for petit theft can have consequences in several other areas of your life as well, including:
- Difficulty obtaining employment or promotion from your current employer
- Difficulty obtaining housing
- Difficulty obtaining credit/financing
- Difficulty being admitted into college
Defending Shoplifting Charges In New York
Successfully defending petit larceny charges such as shoplifting often comes down to the effectiveness of your defense. In such cases, a number of factors can impact the outcome, including:
- The strength of your case
- The prosecutor’s work load
- Effective negotiation
An experienced defense counselor like attorney Jeffrey DeRoberts examines all pieces of evidence, builds a strong case and skillfully negotiates the best outcome for you.
Don’t Risk Your Future, Contact A Skilled Petit Larceny Defense Attorney Today
If you or someone you know has been accused of petit larceny or shoplifting in New York, do not fight this battle alone. With so much at stake, you need experienced legal counsel on your side. Call Jeffrey DeRoberts of the DeRoberts Law Firm today at 315-479-6445 or contact our attorney online for a free initial consultation and receive the personalized attention you deserve.