Herkimer County Petit Larceny Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Herkimer County is a Class A misdemeanor under New York Penal Law § 155.25, punishable by up to one year in jail. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for misdemeanor theft and shoplifting charges. A Herkimer County petit larceny lawyer from our firm can challenge evidence and seek alternatives like an ACD. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
New York Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined in New York Penal Law § 155.25, is the theft of property valued at $1,000 or less. It is distinct from grand larceny, which involves higher values and is a felony. In Herkimer County, these cases are prosecuted in the Herkimer County Criminal Court. The prosecution must prove you intentionally deprived the owner of property or appropriated it for yourself.
Last verified: April 2026 | Herkimer County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see New York Penal Law § 155.25 (official NY Senate site). Court information is available at the Herkimer County Courts website.
Handling a Petit Larceny Case in Herkimer County
New York’s 2020 bail reform means most petit larceny defendants are released without cash bail. The Herkimer County Criminal Court frequently offers Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for first-time offenses, skilled to dismissal after a period with no new arrests.
- Receive a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) or be arraigned within 24 hours of arrest.
- Consult with a petit larceny lawyer Herkimer County to review police reports and evidence.
- Attend all court dates at Herkimer County Criminal Court; your attorney may negotiate for an ACD or reduced charge.
- If no plea is reached, prepare for a bench trial where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny
In Herkimer County, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to one year in jail, three years of probation, and a fine of up to $1,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value ≤ $1,000) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | None | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Herkimer County
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the local procedures in Herkimer County Criminal Court.
Case Results
While specific Herkimer County results are not listed, our firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results across our practice areas with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. For petit larceny and related theft charges, our strategies often focus on securing dismissals, ACDs, or reductions to non-criminal violations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact a Petit Larceny Lawyer Herkimer County
Our New York location serves clients in Herkimer County. We are accessible via I-90 (NYS Thruway) and other major routes.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
We serve Herkimer, Ilion, Little Falls, Mohawk, Frankfort, Dolgeville, and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations are available.
Petit Larceny Defense FAQs
Is petit larceny a felony in New York?
No. Petit larceny is a Class A misdemeanor under New York Penal Law § 155.25. It becomes grand larceny, a felony, if the stolen property value exceeds $1,000.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Herkimer County, New York?
Class A misdemeanors, like petit larceny, carry up to 1 year in jail. Class B misdemeanors carry up to 3 months. Cases are heard at Herkimer County Criminal Court. New York’s bail reform means most misdemeanor defendants are released without bail.
Can a petit larceny charge be dismissed in Herkimer County?
It depends. For first-time offenses, an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is common. If you complete the adjournment period (6-12 months) with no new arrests, the charges are automatically dismissed and sealed. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Herkimer County can advocate for this outcome.
Should I hire a lawyer for a shoplifting charge?
Yes. A shoplifting charge lawyer Herkimer County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and seek to avoid a permanent criminal record through an ACD or reduction, which is difficult to achieve without representation.
Does New York have cash bail for petit larceny?
No. Under 2020 reforms, cash bail is eliminated for almost all misdemeanors, including petit larceny. You will likely be released on your own recognizance or with non-monetary conditions.
Internal Links: For more information, see our New York Criminal Defense hub, or learn about criminal defense in New York County. For related legal help in Herkimer County, consider our family law attorneys.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.