Long Island Petit Larceny

A Long Island Petit Larceny Lawyer will tell you that the offense of Petit Larceny is frequently seen in the state of New York, often because of Shoplifting. Unfortunately, department stores report massive losses every year because of Shoplifting. These losses are passed onto consumers through higher prices. If you have been arrested for a theft crime, including Burglary, robbery, embezzlement or Credit Card Theft, it is important that you seek legal guidance from a Long Island Petit Larceny Lawyer. Penalties for theft crimes can include jail, probation and/or heavy fines.

Petit Larceny is defined in New York Penal Law 155.25, and involves the theft of an item that is valued at $1,000. or less. It is an A misdemeanor offense. If the item stolen is valued at over $1,000., the crime is then Grand Larceny. If you have been charged with this, or other theft crime, it is important to know that there are civil laws that deal with theft as well. Pursuant to these statutes, the victim of a theft crime can bring a civil account against you for 5 times the value of the item stolen.

Store security will employ various tactics to get a shoplifter to confess to their crime. After you are detained by security, they may ask you to either confess to taking an item, or sign a written confession. Any Long Island Petit Larceny Lawyer will tell you that you do not have to say, or sign anything. It is important to remember that legally security can detain you until the police arrive, but they cannot make you confess or sign anything.

If you are arrested with another party, security will sometimes separate the parties to question them separately. They may use one party against another. For instance, they can tell you that your friend has already implicated you in the crime. They are trying to get you to confess, so it is important you do not fall for these tactics. You should say as little as possible, and ask to speak with your lawyer right away.

If you have been arrested for a theft crime, you are likely worried and embarrassed. Contact a qualified Long Island Petit Larceny Lawyer from Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC for advice and guidance. We can answer all of your questions and ensure that you rights are protected at all stages of your legal proceedings. Whether you have been charged with Grand Larceny or Robbery, we can help. When you come in, you will receive not only sound legal advice, you will also receive a free case consultation. Call our office today and make an appointment at 800.696.9529. We have offices to serve you in both Nassau County and Suffolk County on Long Island, as well as Westchester County. We also have locations throughout New York City, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island and Queens.