Petit Larceny Lawyer New York County (Manhattan) — What Are Your Defense Options?
In New York County (Manhattan), petit larceny is a Class A misdemeanor under NY Penal Law § 155.25, carrying up to one year in jail. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for theft charges in Manhattan courts. A conviction can create a permanent criminal record, affecting employment and housing. Our petit larceny lawyer New York team understands local procedures to seek dismissal or reduction.
New York Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
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. The statute requires proof that you intentionally deprived the owner of property or appropriated it for yourself.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm uses his background in accounting and information systems to analyze evidence in theft cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see NY Penal Law § 155.25 (official New York State Senate). For local court procedures, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for Petit Larceny in Manhattan
In New York County, most petit larceny cases begin with a desk appearance ticket (DAT) issued by police, requiring you to appear in Criminal Court for arraignment. The 2020 bail reform means you will likely be released on your own recognizance. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office frequently offers Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for first-time, low-level offenses.
- Receive Summons or DAT: You may be issued a Desk Appearance Ticket instead of being held.
- Arraignment in Criminal Court: You will be formally charged and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your attorney negotiates with the ADA for a possible dismissal or reduction.
- Motion Practice: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a bench trial or is resolved by a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or Dismissal: If convicted, sentencing occurs; if an ACD is granted, the case is dismissed after the adjournment period.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in New York
In New York County (Manhattan), a petit larceny conviction is a Class A misdemeanor with a penalty of up to one year in jail, three years of probation, and a fine 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 directly | Criminal record, employment difficulties, immigration consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we are committed to every client’s defense.
Case Results in New York County
While specific case counts are proprietary, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented results with over 93% favorable outcomes across our practice jurisdictions. In New York, our defense strategies for theft charges focus on challenging intent, value, and evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Near New York County (Manhattan)
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients at Manhattan courts. We are accessible via all major subway lines, PATH, and Metro-North. We provide petit larceny attorney New York representation for clients in neighborhoods including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood. For a petit larceny law firm New York clients trust, call for a 24/7 phone consultation at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Petit Larceny Lawyer New York FAQ
Is petit larceny a felony in New York?
No. Petit larceny is a Class A misdemeanor under NY Penal Law § 155.25. It becomes grand larceny, a felony, if the stolen property value exceeds $1,000.
Can a petit larceny charge be dismissed in Manhattan?
It depends. For first-time offenders, Manhattan prosecutors often offer an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD). If you complete the terms (typically 6-12 months with no new arrests), the case is dismissed and sealed. An attorney can negotiate for this outcome.
What is the jail time for petit larceny?
The maximum penalty is up to one year in jail. However, for a first offense with no criminal history, sentences often involve probation, community service, or a conditional discharge instead of jail time.
Will I get a desk appearance ticket for shoplifting?
Yes, for most first-time, low-level petit larceny arrests, New York police issue a desk appearance ticket (DAT). This requires you to appear in court later instead of being held for arraignment.
How does a petit larceny conviction affect my record?
A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. This can affect job applications, professional licenses, housing, and immigration status. Sealing may be possible under CPL § 160.59 after 10 years for eligible convictions.
Internal Links: For more on criminal defense, see our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. For related charges, read about Criminal Defense in Kings County (Brooklyn). For other legal needs in Manhattan, consider our Immigration Lawyer services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding petit larceny charges in New York.