Utica Theft Lawyers Defending Clients Accused of Larceny-Related Crimes

In New York, larceny is a theft-related crime that, depending on the type and value of the property that was taken, can either be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. The legal standards to charge an individual with larceny are clearly defined. Larceny has occurred if:

• You knowingly and intentionally appropriated the property of another by taking, obtaining, or withholding it from the rightful owner without permission
• The property in question, whether tangible or intangible, belongs to another owner
• The property was taken for an extended period of time or permanently

Larceny charges are extremely serious in nature and can have long-lasting life consequences if you are convicted. Being convicted of a charge of larceny can impact your ability to find employment, secure housing, and even apply for loans.

If you are facing charges related to larceny, you need the help of a knowledgeable and experienced attorney who can explain your legal options and help determine the best strategy to deal with your case. Contact our law offices today by calling (315) 500-6425 to schedule a meeting with an attorney who will be happy to review your charges and explain any questions that you may have.

What is the Difference Between Petit Larceny and Grand Larceny?

In New York, larceny crimes are either classified as petit (petty) or grand larceny. Petty larceny is considered to be a Class A misdemeanor and includes the theft of property valued at below $1,000. If you are convicted of petty larceny, you could potentially face a year in jail along with a $1,000 fine.

Grand larceny, also commonly known as grand theft, is considered to be a felony, with penalties based on the market value of the property that was stolen.

If the property that was stolen is valued at over $1,000 but under $3,000, the offense is charged as a Class E or fourth-degree felony punishable by a maximum prison sentence of four years.

For property valued above $3,000 but below $50,000, the charge is upgraded to a Class D or third-degree felony, with a maximum prison sentence of seven years.

Grand larceny charged as a Class C or second-degree felony involves property that is valued from $50,000-$1 million. If convicted, you could face a maximum of up to 15 years in prison.

If the property in question is valued above $1,000,000, the charge then moves to a Class B or first-degree felony with a maximum prison sentence of 25 years.

If you have been charged with any type of larceny, you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. New York state has tough laws on the books regarding larceny, and the penalties that can accompany them if you are convicted can be severe.

Is Stealing a Motor Vehicle Considered to be Grand Larceny in New York?

If you steal a motor vehicle that is valued at over $100, then you will be charged with grand larceny. In truth, nearly every motor vehicle, including motorcycles, is valued over the $100 starting point.

Not only is auto theft considered to be grand larceny, but it could also bring additional criminal charges. For instance, if you were to break into a garage or other structure where the vehicle was kept in order to steal it, you would also be charged with burglary, another serious felony.

If convicted of a grand larceny charge of stealing a motor vehicle, you could face a maximum sentence of four years in prison. Additionally, you will then have a felony record which will automatically show up on background checks. This type of conviction can prohibit you from fulfilling basic needs such as employment or housing. To make matters worse, this charge is not eligible to be expunged from a criminal history.

Is Shoplifting Considered to be Larceny in New York?

Shoplifting is a larceny offense in New York, with penalties based on the value of merchandise that was stolen. For example, if the merchandise that was taken was an electronic item such as a tablet or smartphone of considerable value, it could easily become a felony offense.

Even though shoplifting seems to be a victimless crime, it can leave you with a criminal record and undesirable consequences that can affect you for the rest of your life. Any type of theft charge can cause employers not to want to take a chance on hiring you, especially in jobs that include the handling of cash or other types of payments.

If you have been charged with larceny related to shoplifting, you need to hire an attorney who can review all of the evidence against you and fight either to have your case dismissed or your charges reduced. Contact our law firm today and schedule a free strategy session.

Do I Need to Hire an Attorney to Defend Me in a Larceny Charge?

Larceny, no matter if it is charged as a misdemeanor or as a felony, is a serious charge in New York. Depending on the circumstances of the case, you could be facing a substantial number of years in prison accompanied by steep fines that could run into thousands of dollars.

Hiring an attorney is your best option when charged with a serious crime such as larceny. The potential long-term consequences of being convicted can severely hinder your life for years to come, maybe even permanently.

You need an experienced attorney who understands the law regarding larceny charges and can fight for your best interests. The attorneys at our law firm are highly qualified when it comes to reviewing your charges and negotiating with the state to have them potentially dismissed or reduced.

Contact our law offices at (315) 500-6425 and schedule a free strategy session with one of our experienced Utica criminal attorneys. They will be happy to explain your legal options and recommend the best measures to proceed with your case.