Petit Larceny Lawyer New York, NY
If you are facing a petit larceny charge in New York City, the legal consequences can be significant even though the offense is classified as a misdemeanor. Under New York Penal Law, petit larceny is defined as the theft of property valued at less than $1,000. A conviction carries potential jail time, a permanent criminal record, and long-term consequences for employment, housing, and professional licensing. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced criminal defense representation to individuals charged with petit larceny in New York County, Kings County, Queens County, and throughout the New York metropolitan area. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, is a former prosecutor who understands how the other side builds its case and uses that insight to work toward favorable outcomes for his clients. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to each matter. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Petit Larceny Means in New York
Petit larceny is a theft offense that falls under Article 155 of the New York Penal Law. When the value of the stolen property is below $1,000, the charge is a Class A misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor level in New York. A conviction may result in up to one year of incarceration, probation, community service, restitution, and a criminal record that can follow you for years. The charge is prosecuted in the local criminal courts, including the New York City Criminal Court in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, and in the Nassau and Suffolk County courts on Long Island.
New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors, including petit larceny, meaning many individuals are released on their own recognizance after arrest. An important procedural option is the Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD), available for many first-offense petit larceny cases. Under an ACD, the charges are adjourned for a period—often six months to a year—and if the defendant has no new arrests during that time, the charges are automatically dismissed. Additionally, conditional sealing under CPL § 160.59 may be available for qualifying convictions after a waiting period. An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate whether an ACD disposition or alternative resolution is appropriate in your case.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Petit Larceny Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. approaches every petit larceny matter with a thorough review of the prosecution’s evidence and the circumstances of the alleged offense. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys examine the strength of the evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and any allegation of theft. They identify procedural issues—such as whether law enforcement followed proper arrest and search procedures—and assess whether the value of the allegedly stolen property can be challenged. A reduction in the alleged value below $1,000 is not at issue because petit larceny inherently involves amounts under that threshold, but other factual defenses may exist, including lack of intent, mistaken identity, or ownership of the property.
The legal process typically begins with an arraignment in criminal court, where the charges are formally presented. The defense then obtains discovery and reviews the evidence. Pre-trial motions can be filed to suppress evidence obtained through unlawful searches or to challenge the sufficiency of the complaint. Throughout, the firm works to negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable resolution, which may include an ACD, a reduction to a non-criminal violation such as disorderly conduct, or a dismissal. If a trial is necessary, the firm’s attorneys are prepared to present a comprehensive defense. Every strategy is tailored to the specific facts of the case and the client’s objectives.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His experience as a former prosecutor provides insight into how the prosecution evaluates evidence and decides which charges to pursue, which he applies to building effective defense strategies. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Together, they provide representation to clients across all five boroughs of New York City and surrounding counties. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is petit larceny in New York?
Petit larceny is the theft of property valued at less than $1,000, classified as a Class A misdemeanor under New York Penal Law. It is prosecuted in local criminal courts and carries potential penalties of up to one year in jail, probation, and fines. Even a first offense can result in a criminal record. Those accused have the right to legal representation and to challenge the evidence against them.
Can a petit larceny charge be dismissed in New York?
Yes, a petit larceny charge can be dismissed, especially for first-time offenders through an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD). Under an ACD, the case is adjourned for a set period, and if the defendant has no further arrests, the charges are dismissed and the record may be sealed. Dismissals also occur when the prosecution’s evidence is insufficient or when a motion to suppress evidence is granted. Every case is unique, and a lawyer can evaluate whether a dismissal is likely given the specific facts.
How does New York’s bail reform affect petit larceny cases?
New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors, including petit larceny, so defendants are generally released on their own recognizance after arrest. This means you are not required to post bail while your case is pending. The reform aims to reduce pretrial detention for non-violent offenses. However, certain circumstances, such as being charged with a qualifying felony or having a history of failing to appear, could still lead to bail being set.
Do I need a lawyer for a petit larceny charge in New York City?
While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer, having experienced defense counsel significantly improves your ability to navigate the criminal justice system and achieve a favorable resolution. A lawyer can advise you on potential defenses, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you at all court appearances. Even a seemingly minor petit larceny conviction can have lasting consequences, so obtaining legal guidance is important. For a consultation about your case, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What are the potential penalties for petit larceny in New York?
A conviction for petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor, can result in a sentence of up to one year in jail, up to three years of probation, and a fine of up to $1,000. The court may also order restitution to the alleged victim. A criminal record from a petit larceny conviction can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. Because the consequences extend beyond the immediate sentence, defending against the charge is critical. Results may vary.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in New York?
The primary difference is the value of the stolen property: petit larceny involves property valued at less than $1,000, while grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more. Grand larceny is a felony with harsher penalties, including state prison sentences. Petit larceny is a misdemeanor. The value threshold determines which court hears the case and the range of possible sentences. An attorney can challenge the valuation of the property to ensure the charge is appropriate.
For more on criminal defense in the New York City area, see our pages on criminal defense lawyers in New York County (Manhattan), Kings County (Brooklyn), and Queens County (Queens).
Additional resources: New York State Unified Court System and New York Penal Law.
Last reviewed: July 2026
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