Petit Larceny Lawyer Queens County, NY

If you are facing a petit larceny charge in Queens County, New York, the stakes are serious. Under New York Penal Law, petit larceny — the theft of property valued at less than $1,000 — is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail, probation, and a criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and immigration status. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides criminal defense representation to individuals in Queens County, including Jamaica, Flushing, Astoria, Long Island City, Forest Hills, and surrounding neighborhoods. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, and his Of Counsel appear in the Queens County Supreme Court Criminal Term at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, and in the NYC Criminal Court — Queens, and work to protect clients’ rights at every stage of the proceedings. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Petit Larceny Means in Queens County

In New York, larceny offenses are divided into petit and grand larceny based on the value of the property taken. Petit larceny involves property worth less than $1,000. While the charge is a misdemeanor rather than a felony, a conviction still carries significant consequences. Because Queens County is part of New York City, its criminal courts operate under the city’s high-volume docket, and the District Attorney’s Office prosecutes thousands of theft cases each year. Understanding the specific procedures and potential dispositions available in Queens County courts is essential for anyone facing a petit larceny charge.

Misdemeanor-level cases are heard in the NYC Criminal Court — Queens, while felony larceny cases proceed in the Queens County Supreme Court Criminal Term. Queens County also has its own distinct diversion and disposition programs. For many first-time offenders, an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) may be available. Under an ACD, the case is adjourned for a period of six to twelve months, and if no new arrests occur during that time, the charge is dismissed and the record may be sealed. New York’s 2020 bail reforms have largely eliminated cash bail for misdemeanor offenses, including petit larceny, so most defendants are released on their own recognizance or with a Desk Appearance Ticket after arrest.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Petit Larceny Cases

When Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents a client on a petit larceny charge in Queens County, the immediate priority is to analyze the evidence and identify the strong $1. This may involve challenging whether the property was taken with the requisite intent to permanently deprive the owner, whether the value alleged by the prosecution is accurate, or whether the identification of the accused is reliable. In Queens County, where retail thefts are frequently prosecuted, the firm’s attorneys carefully examine store surveillance footage, loss prevention reports, and witness statements for inconsistencies or procedural errors.

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel also assess whether a disposition short of conviction is achievable. Depending on the facts, this may mean negotiating with the District Attorney’s Office for a reduction to a non-criminal violation such as disorderly conduct, or advocating for an ACD. When a trial is necessary, the defense focuses on creating reasonable doubt, including through cross-examination of witnesses and presentation of contrary evidence. Throughout the process, the firm ensures that the client understands each step and the potential consequences, including immigration ramifications for non-citizens.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal defense since founding the firm in 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is joined by Of Counsel attorneys who are not employees or associates, but independent attorneys who contract with the firm. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.

The firm’s New York location is at 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202, by appointment only. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel represent clients throughout Queens County, including in Jamaica, Flushing, Astoria, Long Island City, Forest Hills, Bayside, Jackson Heights, Rego Park, Elmhurst, Woodside, Corona, and surrounding neighborhoods. To schedule a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does New York have cash bail?

New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies. For a petit larceny charge, which is a Class A misdemeanor, a defendant is typically released on their own recognizance or issued a Desk Appearance Ticket without being held in custody. Cash bail may still be set for certain qualifying offenses, but petit larceny alone rarely triggers a cash bail requirement. This reform means that most individuals charged with petit larceny in Queens County are not incarcerated pending trial. The case is later adjudicated at the Queens County Supreme Court or NYC Criminal Court — Queens, depending on whether it is a felony or misdemeanor. For guidance on your specific situation, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What is an ACD in Queens County, New York?

An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a disposition where the court adjourns the case for six to twelve months, and if the defendant has no new arrests during that time, the charge is automatically dismissed. ACDs are available for many first-offense petit larceny cases in Queens County. After dismissal, the record may be sealed, helping to avoid a permanent criminal record. The decision to offer an ACD is made by the District Attorney’s Office, often after negotiation by defense counsel. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented case results in Queens County. Results may vary. To discuss your eligibility for an ACD, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Can I get my criminal record sealed in Queens County, New York?

Yes, New York law allows for conditional sealing of certain convictions under Criminal Procedure Law § 160.59, and automatic sealing of ACD dismissals. For a petit larceny conviction, sealing may be available after a ten-year waiting period, assuming no more than two eligible convictions. Marijuana-related offenses have expanded sealing eligibility. Cases in Queens County are sealed through the sentencing court. Sealing can significantly reduce the collateral consequences of a criminal record, including barriers to employment. Because the process requires a motion and court review, it is advisable to work with counsel familiar with Queens County procedures. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals in record-sealing matters; call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.

What are the penalties for petit larceny in Queens County?

Petit larceny is a Class A misdemeanor in New York, carrying a maximum sentence of up to one year in jail, a fine, and up to three years of probation. Additional consequences may include a permanent criminal record, mandatory surcharges, and potential immigration complications for non-citizens. For a first-time offender, a sentence of jail time is less common; probation, community service, or a conditional discharge are more likely, particularly with effective advocacy. The court also may impose an ACD, which results in dismissal and sealing of the record. The outcome depends heavily on the specific facts of the case and the quality of the defense. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

What should I do if I am charged with petit larceny in Queens County?

If you are charged with petit larceny in Queens County, the most important step is to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney before speaking with law enforcement or appearing in court. Do not discuss the facts of the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any documents, receipts, or video evidence that may be relevant. In New York City, many petty theft cases are resolved through ACDs or plea negotiations, but the outcome depends on early intervention and a well-prepared defense. Ignoring the charge can lead to a bench warrant and more severe consequences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations by appointment. Call (888) 437-7747 to speak with counsel about your situation.

How does a lawyer defend against a petit larceny charge in New York?

Defense strategies in a petit larceny case often focus on challenging the element of intent, disputing the value of the property, or contesting the identification of the defendant. Because petit larceny requires proof of intent to permanently deprive the owner of property, a defense may argue that the taking was accidental, authorized, or done without criminal intent. In Queens County, where many cases involve store surveillance, scrutinizing the quality and completeness of the video evidence is a key tactic. Value disputes can also arise if the item is worn or of questionable worth. An experienced defense attorney will investigate all angles to seek a dismissal, reduction, or acquittal. To discuss your defense options, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Additional criminal defense resources for New York City boroughs:
Criminal defense representation in Manhattan
Brooklyn criminal defense lawyers
Staten Island criminal defense attorneys
Nassau County criminal defense legal services

New York legal resources:
New York Penal Law
Queens County Supreme Court — 11th Judicial District
New York State Unified Court System

Last reviewed: July 2026

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Practicing since 1997.

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.