Petty Larceny and Shoplifting
Petty larceny (or petit larceny) is the basic crime of theft. As a misdemeanor charge, it typically involves stealing property valued at less than $1,000. Shoplifting, which involves stealing merchandise from a store, is one form of petty larceny. But petty larceny also includes stealing goods or services from a person or from a non-retail business.
Whether you've been caught shoplifting from a store or stealing from a person, it's important to retain legal counsel to represent you. While stealing may seem like a minor offense, conviction can leave a permanent mark on your record, which can lead to problems down the road.
A Strong Defense When You Have Been Charged With Shoplifting
My name is Bruce Yerman, and I'm a criminal defense lawyer. I help clients resolve shoplifting and other petty larceny changes in New York City. When you retain me, we will discuss the facts of your case in depth. We'll talk about the circumstances of your arrest. I'll help you understand how the law specifically applies to you. Together, we will devise a plan with a goal to secure the most favorable outcome possible.
I'm a skilled negotiator and have extensive experience negotiating plea bargains with prosecutors throughout New York City. My primary goal is always to help my clients avoid jail. My second goal is to obtain reduced charges or outright dismissal. If you have no prior criminal history, chances are good that you'll receive the opportunity to plead guilty to a non-criminal offense. In many cases, dismissal will be an option. A favorable negotiated resolution of your case might require you to complete an anti-shoplifting course such as StopLift, and perform some community service. In the event a satisfactory resolution can't be negotiated, trial is always an option.
While I can never guarantee a legal outcome, my extensive experience handling shoplifting and other petty larceny cases, as well as my past results, gives me a good sense of what we can accomplish in a particular case.
Helping Clients Who've Been Wrongly Accused of Shoplifting
Many charges of shoplifting are unwarranted or false. Sometimes overly eager security guards will claim you shoplifted when you never had the intent to steal. I've had absent-minded clients innocently walk out of stores holding merchandise they forgot was in their hands: arrested by store security. I've had an innocent client walk to the front of the store past the cash registers, merchandise in hand, seeking better cell phone reception: arrested by store security. One client temporarily put an item in her handbag, merely to keep her hands free so she could handle other merchandise: arrested.
In other instances, store security officials use overly aggressive tactics. For example, security at a well-known department store in Midtown Manhattan is infamous for telling arrested customers that they'll be released after signing false confessions: security then calls the police before the ink is dry.
If you've been wrongly accused of shoplifting, I'm dedicated to proving your innocence.
Facing shoplifting and other larceny charges is a frightening experience. The legal process can seem very intimidating. As my client, you won't go through this process alone. I'm with you every step of the way.
Bruce Yerman, Attorney at Law · NY Petty Larceny Attorney
Contact Bruce Yerman at 646-480-1278 to schedule a free initial consultation. I'm a dedicated shoplifting defense attorney in New York. 24/7 emergency contact is available. My office is conveniently located two blocks from the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse. I accept payment by cash, check or credit card.
Criminal Defense — Helping You Leave Trouble Behind
