Staten Island Shoplifting

A Staten Island Shoplifting Lawyer can tell you that the crime of Shoplifting is extremely common in New York. It is considered a “quality of life” crime, in that it drains law enforcement resources. Shoplifting is legally called Petit Larceny, and is set forth in section 155.25 of New York Penal Law. Petite Larceny involves the taking the property of another that has a value of less than $1,000. It is a class A misdemeanor, which means that it is punishable by one year or less in jail. If the value of the item is more than $1,000. the crime would be Grand Larceny. If you or a loved one has been charged with the crime of Grand Larceny, credit card theft or Shoplifting, it is important to speak with a qualified Staten Island Shoplifting Lawyer from our team today.

If you are suspected of Shoplifting, store security will detain you. One of their main goals at this point is to try and get you to confess to the crime. They may tell you that if you sign a confession they will let you go. A Staten Island Shoplifting Lawyer from our team with strongly advise against this. It is important to not give any information and answer as few questions as possible. Anything you sign, or anything you say can be used against you.

When the police arrive, two different scenarios can take place. You can be issued a desk appearance ticket and released, or you can be booked and held in custody until your arraignment. At your arraignment, you will have the opportunity to hear the charges against you, and will be expected to enter your plea.

In New York, a conviction of this misdemeanor results in a criminal record. This conviction is there for anyone to see who chooses to do a background check. Moreover, your fingerprints will be kept as well. That’s why it’s so important to fight the criminal charge and get the charge dismissed to protect your reputation. That is why it’s so important to have an experienced Staten Island Criminal Lawyer working on your behalf to ensure that you rights are protected.

Being arrested for Shoplifting is embarrassing, as well as frightening. If convicted you could be facing serious penalties. Contact a Staten Island Shoplifting Lawyer from Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC. We will provide you with valuable legal guidance and a free consultation. We have offices in New York City, including not only Staten Island, but also Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens. We also have locations in Westchester County and Suffolk County and Nassau County on Long Island. Call us today at 800.696.9529.