Theft Defense Lawyer New York County, NY
You walk into a department store in Midtown Manhattan, browse the racks, and leave without buying anything. A security guard stops you outside and accuses you of shoplifting, claiming you concealed a piece of clothing. The next thing you know, the police are involved and you face a theft charge in New York County Criminal Court. A theft accusation in New York County (Manhattan) can disrupt your life — from potential jail time and a permanent record to employment consequences. Having an experienced attorney on your side is critical. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represent individuals charged with theft offenses in Manhattan, from petit larceny to grand larceny felonies. Founded in 1997, the firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel, and has handled matters across New York State. Results may vary. To discuss your case, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Theft Defense Means in New York County
The New York Penal Law defines theft offenses based on the value of property taken and the circumstances of the taking. In New York County (Manhattan), theft charges are heard at the New York County Supreme Court, Criminal Term, for felonies, or in the NYC Criminal Court for misdemeanors, both located at 60 Centre Street. Petit larceny — theft of property valued at $1,000 or less — is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail. Grand larceny ranges from fourth degree (property valued between $1,000 and $3,000) to first degree (property exceeding one million dollars), with felony classifications and prison terms escalating accordingly.
Manhattan’s courts handle a high volume of theft cases, from shoplifting and employee theft to more complex financial fraud matters. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non‑violent felonies, which means many theft defendants are released on their own recognizance pending trial. An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) may be available for certain first‑offense thefts — charges are adjourned for a period and then dismissed if the defendant stays out of further legal trouble, often experienced to record sealing. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly in Manhattan courts and understand how the local district attorney’s office handles theft prosecutions.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Theft Defense Cases
When you retain Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., the defense team begins by thoroughly reviewing the evidence — arrest reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and any other materials the prosecution intends to use. The goal is to identify weaknesses in the state’s case and build a defense strategy tailored to the specific facts. Strategies may include challenging the legality of a stop or search, disputing the value of the property, or asserting a claim of right or mistake of fact.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel then work toward the most favorable resolution possible under the circumstances. In many theft cases, this means negotiating with the prosecutor for a dismissal, an ACD, a reduction to a lesser non‑criminal violation, or a sentence that avoids jail time. If trial is necessary, the defense team is prepared to present a vigorous defense. Each case timeline varies based on the complexity of the evidence, the court’s calendar, and whether the matter goes to trial; your attorney will keep you informed at every stage.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. A former prosecutor, he founded the firm in 1997 and has spent his career representing individuals facing criminal charges across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His familiarity with how prosecutors build theft cases gives him valuable insight when defending clients in Manhattan.
Mr. Sris is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys, each engaged through Excella, with extensive litigation experience. Collectively, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. The firm has documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas since 1997.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in New York?
Petit larceny is a Class A misdemeanor involving theft of property valued at $1,000 or less. Grand larceny is a felony and applies when the value exceeds $1,000, with degrees of grand larceny escalating based on the property’s value or the manner of the taking. The distinction affects potential jail time and the long-term consequences of a conviction. An experienced attorney can evaluate the evidence surrounding the valuation and may seek to have a grand larceny charge reduced to a misdemeanor-level offense.
Can a theft charge be dropped in New York County?
A theft charge may be dropped if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence, the complaining witness does not cooperate, or the defense raises a viable legal challenge. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel investigate the facts and communicate with the district attorney’s office to pursue a dismissal or a favorable alternative resolution. While there is no guarantee, having a knowledgeable defense team increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Results may vary.
Do I need a lawyer for a first‑offense shoplifting case in Manhattan?
Even a first‑offense shoplifting charge can result in a criminal record, fines, or jail time if not handled properly. An attorney can identify whether you qualify for an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD), which would allow the charge to be dismissed and sealed upon completion of a period of good behavior. Without counsel, you risk pleading guilty to an offense that may have been avoidable. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What is an ACD and how does it apply to theft cases?
An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal is a disposition under the New York Criminal Procedure Law that postpones a case for a set period — often six months to one year. If the defendant is not arrested again during that time, the charges are dismissed and the record is sealed. For many first‑offense thefts in Manhattan, the prosecution will consider an ACD. An attorney can advocate for this outcome and help you understand the conditions attached.
What should I do if I am arrested for theft in New York County?
Immediately ask to speak with an attorney and refrain from making any statements to the police. You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you. Contact a theft defense lawyer as soon as possible to begin building your defense. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747. The firm’s Buffalo location serves clients throughout New York State, including Manhattan.
Related Practice Areas in New York
Criminal Lawyer Kings County (Brooklyn), NY · Criminal Lawyer Queens County (Queens), NY · Criminal Lawyer Richmond County (Staten Island), NY · Criminal Lawyer Nassau County (Long Island), NY · Criminal Lawyer Suffolk County (Long Island), NY
Additional Resources
New York Penal Law (PEN) · New York State Unified Court System
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients from its Buffalo location at 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Buffalo, NY 14202; by appointment, call (888) 437-7747.