Shoplifting

Brooklyn Shoplifting

Item: Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC
Rating: 5
Author: J.P.

A Brooklyn Shoplifting Lawyer would agree that Shoplifting is a “quality of life crime.” This term is used to describe offenses that are a drain on law enforcement and the legal system alike. Legally, Shoplifting is called Petit Larceny. New York Penal Law section 155.25 sets out this crime, which is the taking of the property of another that is valued at $1,000. or less. If the value of the property is over $1,000., then it is Grand Larceny. Petit Larceny is punishable by up to one year in prison, and is a class A misdemeanor. If you have been arrested for a theft offense such as Credit Card Fraud, robbery, Shoplifting, or even Burglary, it is extremely important to be represented by a Brooklyn Criminal Lawyer from our team. You could be facing both criminal and civil penalties.

If you have been apprehended in a department store for Shoplifting, a Brooklyn Shoplifting Lawyer would advise you to never sign anything. Store security will go to great lengths to encourage you to confess either verbally, or by signing something. Never sign anything, and ask to speak with your lawyer.

When you are arrested, the police have to ways they can proceed. They can book you in jail, and hold you until your arraignment in front of a judge. Or they can issue you a desk appearance ticket (DAT). If you are issued a DAT, you will be free to leave. You must however appear in court on the date and crime specified on your ticket.

The Kings County Office of the District Attorney strictly enforces petite larceny cases. They believe this crime can lead to larger ones. Many people are unaware that a conviction of this misdemeanor will result in the defendant having a criminal record. Moreover, this record is public. This means that anyone doing a background check can access this information. Therefore, the consequences for stealing a $100 item can be quite serious as employers may require a background check. It is important to be sure that an experienced Brooklyn Shoplifting Lawyer represents you throughout your legal proceedings from our team.

If you have been arrested for a theft crime, it is important to protect your interests. There are also civil statutes that enable a store merchant to sue you in civil court for up to 5 times the value of the items taken. Contact Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC for advice and a free case consultation. We will create and aggressive defense strategy for your case and ensure that your rights are protected. We have offices to serve you throughout New York including Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island and Queens. We also have locations in Westchester County, as well as Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island. Call our office today to schedule your free appointment at 800.696.9529.

★★★★★

My wife and I met under some unconventional circumstances. After I had some legal problems, Mr Bilkis and his firm continually got me out of trouble. I then had his firm represented my wife and he got her out of trouble! We are still married and got our ways straightened away. We both can't thank him enough for saving our lives and our families! J.P.

I contacted Stephen Bilkis' office for an issue regarding a family member and I could not be happier with the results. I have recommended the firm to friends and family, all of whom were also ecstatic with Mr. Bilkis and all members of his staff. P.R.

I was in need of legal assistance for a very sensitive matter for a family member. I contacted the law offices of Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC and was met with staff whose demeanor was supportive, compassionate and professional. The lawyer handling our case had many years of experience and treated us as if we were his own family. Our experience was so good, and we became so close to all of the staff and all of the attorneys who assisted us, that we consider them our extended family and continue to send them our home baked gifts for the holidays. P.A.K.

I hired Stephen Bilkis and Associates to represent me on a legal matter a few months ago and am grateful for their swift action and resolution on my behalf. I was impressed with their professionalism and would recommend them to friends and family in a heartbeat. M.B.

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