A Westchester Petit Larceny Lawyer will tell you that Petit Larceny is a crime frequently seen in the state of New York, and is often seen in relation to the offense of Shoplifting. Teens and young adults often commit this offense. This crime costs all of us, because stores raise prices to make up for the losses they experience through Shoplifting. If you have been charged with a theft crime such as Petit Larceny, grand larceny or Identity Theft, speak with a Westchester County Petit Larceny Lawyer from our team today. You could be facing serious legal penalties that include time in jail, probation and/or substantial fines.
In New York, Petit Larceny is set out in NY Penal Law section 155.25. The crime involves the theft of a service or good, that has a monetary value of less than $1,000. This crime is categorized as a class A misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is any offense punishable by one year or less in jail. If the value of the stolen property is more than $1,000. it is Grand Larceny. There are civil statutes that deal with theft crimes as well as criminal statutes. The victim of a theft can sue a defendant in a civil lawsuit and seek the cost of the stolen item.
A Westchester County Petit Larceny Lawyer would tell you that often when someone is arrested for Shoplifting, store security will detain you until the police arrive. It is legal for them to detain you. However, they will often ask for you to make a potentially incriminating statement, or to sign a written confession. It is important that you do not confess to anything, and give as little information as possible. Instead, insist that you speak with your lawyer.
Security and police will often use various tactics to illicit a confession. If you were arrested with another party, which is often the case with Shoplifting, security may separate you and question you separately. They may tell you that your friend implicated you in the theft, or tell you other information to try to get you to confess. Be sure that you do not fall for this, and remain silent. Ask to speak with your lawyer immediately.
If you have been charged with a theft crime, like Robbery, burglary, identity theft or Embezzlement, it is important to contact a Westchester County Petit Larceny Lawyer from Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC. We will create an aggressive defense strategy for your case and ensure that your rights are protected. You will receive a free consultation with your first appointment, so call us today at 800.696.9529. We have offices in not only Westchester County, but also Suffolk County and Nassau County on Long Island. Or see us in any of our New York City locations including Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island or Queens.