What am I facing with a recent petit larceny charge?

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What am I facing with a recent petit larceny charge?

Recently charged on petit larceny for allegedly taking a few items from a store with a value of about $75. Was arrested and let out the same day at a local police station. Store security showed up and did their police report at the station. I was finger printed and I was given a ticket to appear at the end of the month. My current record has a misdemeanor charge on it from over 10 years ago.. The charge has nothing to do with this type of crime and is in a completely different category. I know the max in my state is 1 year in jail. Should I use a public defender or private counsel?

Asked on January 16, 2012 under Criminal Law, New York

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

I advise all people who have been charged with a criminal offense that is either a misdemeanor or a felony that they should consult a criminal defense attorney to assist them in court instead of handling the matter on their own. My experience is that the district attorney's office is more willing to work on a realistic plea offer with a criminal defense attorney as opposed to the accused on his or her own.

The charge filed against you if convicted could result in jail for up to one year, a $1,000 fine or both on the high end. Most likely if you plead out, you will have no jail time, a fine, probation and community service work.


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