Theft Lawyer in Manhattan
Hire an Aggressive Larceny Defense Lawyer
Being charged with larceny or theft in Manhattan is serious. Whether it was a misunderstanding, a mistake, or a false accusation, a conviction could affect your future, job opportunities, and even your freedom. New York law has strict penalties for theft-related offenses, and prosecutors are aggressive about securing convictions – especially for repeat offenders or felony-level thefts.
If you’re facing larceny charges, you need to understand your rights, the potential consequences, and how a strong legal defense can protect you. Yifei He, a Manhattan criminal defense attorney, will work tirlessly to get theft charges reduced, dismissed, or beaten in court.
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Call our Manhattan Criminal Defense Lawyer at 1-917-338-7678 Let’s discuss your case and your options.
What is Considered Larceny in NYC?
Under New York Penal Law § 155.05, larceny (or theft) occurs when someone wrongfully takes, obtains, or withholds another person’s property with intent to permanently deprive them of it.
- Shoplifting – Taking merchandise from a store without paying.
- Grand Larceny – Theft of high-value property, often charged as a felony.
- Credit Card or Identity Theft – Using someone else’s financial information without permission.
- Employee Theft – Stealing from an employer, often classified as a felony if the value is high.
- Robbery vs. Larceny – Unlike robbery, larceny does not involve force or threats
How is Larceny Classified?
Larceny is classified on the value of the stolen property, as outlined below:
| Charge | Property Value | Potential Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Misdemeanor) | Less than $1,000 | Up to 1 year in jail, fines, probation |
| Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree (Felony) | $1,000 – $3,000 | Up to 4 years in prison |
| Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (Felony) | $3,000 – $50,000 | Up to 7 years in prison |
| Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (Felony) | $50,000 – $1,000,000 | Up to 15 years in prison |
| Grand Larceny in the First Degree (Felony) | More than $1,000,000 | Up to 25 years in prison |
What To Expect After an Arrest
New York takes larceny charges very seriously, especially in high-traffic areas like Times Square, SoHo, and Midtown, where retail theft and fraud-related crimes are common. Here’s what typically happens after an arrest:
Arrest & Booking – You will be taken to a Manhattan precinct for processing. Depending on the charge, you may be released with a desk appearance ticket or held for arraignment.Court Arraignment – A judge will formally charge you, and you’ll enter a plea. If it’s a felony, bail may be set.Pre-Trial Negotiations – Your lawyer may fight to get charges dismissed, reduced, or negotiate a plea deal.Trial (If Necessary) – If no agreement is reached, the case goes to trial, where the prosecution must prove intent to steal beyond a reasonable doubt.
Call us for a free consultation at 1-917-338-7678 if you’ve been arrested on larceny charges. Let’s discuss your case and your options.
Defending a Larceny Charge in Manhattan
Hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer will ensure you have a strong defense strategy.
An attorney can mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal.
Here’s how we defend clients facing theft charges:
- Determine Lack of Intent – If you didn’t mean to steal (e.g., accidental shoplifting or a misunderstanding), we fight to get charges dropped.
- Proving Your Identity Was Mistaken – New York is a crowded place and many larceny arrests rely on poor eyewitness accounts or faulty surveillance footage—we challenge unreliable evidence.
- You Experienced Illegal Search & Seizure – If police searched you or your property without cause, we can suppress evidence and weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Falsey Accused – Were you wrongfully accused out of retaliation or personal disputes? We expose the truth.
- Alternative First Time Offender Programs – For non-violent theft charges, we may be able to negotiate probation, community service, or dismissal instead of jail time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Arrested for Theft in NYC
Did you know that when you’re charged with larceny in Manhattan, even small mistakes can seriously hurt your case?
Here’s what not to do if you’ve been arrested:
- Talking to the Police Without a Lawyer – Many people think they can “explain the situation” and clear things up, but anything you say can and will be used against you. Even casual remarks can be twisted to support the prosecution’s case.
- Resisting Arrest or Arguing With Officers – Even if you believe you’re innocent, fighting back or refusing to comply can lead to additional charges like resisting arrest or obstruction. Staying calm and cooperative is always in your best interest.
- Waiting to Hire an Attorney – Time is critical in a larceny case. The longer you wait to get legal representation, the harder it can be to challenge evidence, secure witnesses, or negotiate a favorable outcome.
- Discussing Your Case With Anyone Else – Talking about your arrest with friends, family, or even on social media can come back to haunt you. Prosecutors can subpoena texts, calls, and online posts, so it’s best to stay silent and let your attorney handle everything.
The Risks of Not Hiring a Defense Lawyer
Trying to handle your case without a criminal defense lawyer is a critical mistake. Even a misdemeanor theft charge can lead to fines, probation, a permanent criminal record, and even jail time, while felony larceny charges carry even harsher penalties. New York City prosecutors are aggressive when pursuing theft cases, and without an experienced attorney, you may find yourself facing the maximum sentence—even if the evidence against you is weak. A criminal defense lawyer knows how to challenge the prosecution’s case, identify legal flaws, and fight for a reduction or dismissal of charges whenever possible.
Beyond just fighting the legal penalties, a larceny conviction can impact your future, making it harder to secure jobs, housing, or even professional licenses. If you are a non-citizen, a theft conviction could also jeopardize your immigration status and lead to deportation. A skilled defense attorney will work to protect your record and minimize long-term consequences, whether that means negotiating for alternative sentencing options or proving you were falsely accused. From gathering evidence to representing you in court, having a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer is your best chance at protecting your rights and securing a favorable outcome.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Take the most crucial step in protecting your future by contacting The Law Office of Yifei He, PLLC today.
Speak with a larceny defense attorney in Manhattan for FREE at 917-338-7678 or start the process online now.
FAQs: Larceny in NYC
What’s the Difference Between Petit Larceny and Grand Larceny?
Petit larceny is a misdemeanor for thefts under $1,000, while grand larceny is a felony for thefts over $1,000. The higher the stolen value, the harsher the penalties.
Can I Be Charged with Larceny If I Returned the Stolen Property?
Yes. Returning stolen property does not automatically erase the charge – prosecutors may still pursue penalties. However, it can help negotiate a reduced charge or dismissal.
Can Shoplifting Lead to Jail Time?
Yes. While first-time offenders may qualify for probation or diversion programs, repeat offenders face harsher consequences – especially for felony-level theft.
Can a Larceny Conviction Affect My Job?
Yes, depending on the severity of the case and if you’re facing jail time. Also if you lose your job, many employers perform background checks, and a theft conviction can make it harder to find work, especially in finance, retail, or corporate positions.
What Should I Do If I Am Arrested for a Weapons Charge?
Remain silent, do not answer police questions, and contact an attorney immediately. Anything said to law enforcement can be used as evidence, and a lawyer will provide critical legal guidance to protect your rights.
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