Petit Larceny New York

What Is Petit Larceny in New York?

Being arrested for petit larceny, even for something as minor as shoplifting, can turn your life upside down. You may be wondering: Will I go to jail? Will this affect my job? Can I get this off my record?

Under New York Penal Law §155.25, petit larceny occurs when someone unlawfully takes another person's property valued at $1,000 or less with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. While it's considered the lowest level of theft offense in New York, petit larceny is still a crime that can result in jail time and a permanent criminal record.

At the Law Offices of Matthew Cohan, we've successfully defended countless clients against petit larceny charges throughout New York, securing dismissals, reductions, and alternative resolutions that protect our clients' futures.

Petit Larceny vs. Grand Larceny: What's the Difference?

The key difference is the value of the property involved:

Petit Larceny: Property valued at $1,000 or less (charged as a Class A misdemeanor)

Grand Larceny: Property valued over $1,000 (charged as a felony with escalating degrees based on the value)

While petit larceny may sound minor compared to grand larceny, don't be fooled. A Class A misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor charge in New York and carries penalties that can impact every aspect of your life.

Penalties for Petit Larceny in New York

If convicted of petit larceny, you face:

Criminal Penalties:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Up to 3 years of probation
• Fines up to $1,000
• Restitution to the victim for property loss
• A permanent criminal record visible on background checks

Collateral Consequences:

The criminal record alone can create obstacles that follow you for years:

• Employment barriers: Many employers automatically reject applicants with theft convictions
• Professional licensing issues: Nurses, teachers, lawyers, accountants, and other licensed professionals may face disciplinary action or license denial
• Immigration complications: Non-U.S. citizens may face deportation or be barred from citizenship
• Housing difficulties: Landlords often deny applications from individuals with criminal records
• Educational setbacks: College admissions and financial aid may be jeopardized

The "Crime of Dishonesty" Problem

Perhaps most damaging is that petit larceny is classified as a crime involving moral turpitude or "crime of dishonesty." This designation means employers, licensing boards, and professional organizations view it as a serious character flaw, even though it's "just" a misdemeanor.

If you hold or are pursuing a professional license in fields such as nursing, medicine, finance, law, teaching, or real estate, a petit larceny conviction can derail your entire career. That's why it's critical to speak with an experienced New York criminal defense attorney immediately.

Common Petit Larceny Cases in NYC

We regularly defend clients accused of:

• Shoplifting merchandise from retail stores (most common)
• Taking personal items like phones, wallets, or bags
• Employee theft of cash or property from an employer
• Switching or altering price tags to pay less
• Taking items from a gym, office, or other location

Many of our clients have never been in trouble before. A momentary lapse in judgment, a misunderstanding, or even a false accusation can result in criminal charges that threaten everything you've worked for.

Strong Defenses Against Petit Larceny Charges

Every case is different, and an experienced attorney will evaluate the specific facts to build the strongest possible defense. Common defense strategies include:

Lack of Intent: You didn't intend to steal or permanently keep the property. Perhaps you forgot to pay, became distracted, or planned to return the item.

Mistaken Identity: Store security or witnesses identified the wrong person, especially in crowded retail environments.

Claim of Right: You genuinely believed the property belonged to you or that you had permission to take it.

Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution cannot prove ownership, value, or intent beyond a reasonable doubt.

Procedural Violations: Evidence was obtained through an illegal search, or your rights were violated during the arrest.

Alternative Resolutions: Your attorney may negotiate for programs like an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD), which can result in complete dismissal of charges after a period of good behavior. This leaves you with no criminal record.

At the Law Offices of Matthew Cohan, our primary goal is to get your charges dismissed or reduced to a non-criminal violation whenever possible. We've achieved this outcome for countless clients facing petit larceny charges.

Why You Need a Private Criminal Defense Attorney

While public defenders work hard, they're often overwhelmed with massive caseloads. When you hire the Law Offices of Matthew Cohan, you get:

Immediate Attention: We begin building your defense from day one, not weeks before your court date.

Personalized Strategy: Every case receives individualized attention based on your specific circumstances and goals.

Proven Track Record: We've successfully secured dismissals, ACDs, and favorable plea deals in countless petit larceny cases.

Former Prosecutor Experience: Attorney Matthew Cohan's background as a former prosecutor gives him unique insight into how the other side builds their case—and how to defeat it.

Aggressive Advocacy: We fight to protect your record, your career, and your future. We don't just process cases; we fight to win them.

Clear Communication: You'll always know what's happening with your case and what to expect next.

Don't Wait. Your Future Depends on Acting Now

The decisions you make right after being charged with petit larceny can determine the outcome of your case. The sooner you contact an experienced attorney, the more options we have to protect you.

Early intervention allows us to:

• Preserve crucial evidence
• Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
• Negotiate with prosecutors before charges are formally filed
• Explore diversion programs and alternative resolutions
• Prepare the strongest possible defense if your case goes to trial

Contact the Law Offices of Matthew Cohan Today

If you've been arrested or accused of petit larceny anywhere in New York, don't leave your future to chance. We have successfully helped countless clients get their petit larceny charges dismissed or reduced, protecting their records and their futures.

Call (516) 375-1107 now or complete our contact form below for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced New York theft defense attorney.

We're available 24/7 because we understand that arrests don't happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. Let us fight for you and help you move forward with confidence.