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Grand larceny is a serious crime in New York City, with potentially severe penalties for those convicted. These could include prison time, fines, paying reimbursement, serving probation, or some combination of these punishments. The severity of a sentence depends on the value of the items stolen, any prior criminal record, and other factors.
This is why it is important to hire an experienced lawyer. A skilled grand larceny lawyer at Rosenblum Law will provide invaluable insight and guidance throughout the process and improve your odds of getting the charges reduced or dropped.
In this article, we explain more about what grand larceny is, the potential penalties, and possible legal defenses.
Understanding Grand Larceny Laws in New York City
Grand larceny is a felony and is generally defined as intentionally taking someone’s property valued at $1,000 or more without their consent, according to New York Penal Law Sections 155.30 through 155.42. Under New York Penal Law Section 155.05, it is possible to commit grand larceny in several ways, including by embezzlement, trick, lying, or extortion.
By contrast, the misdemeanor petit larceny is taking someone’s property valued at less than $1,000.
There are four degrees of grand larceny in New York City.
- Grand larceny in the fourth degree is considered the least serious and is typically charged when the value of the allegedly stolen property is between $1,000 and $3,000. Grand larceny in the fourth degree is a class E felony that can carry a jail term of one to five years.
- Grand larceny in the third degree is typically charged when the property is valued between $3,000 and $50,000. Grand larceny in the third degree is a class D felony, which generally entails a jail term of two to seven years.
- Grand larceny in the second degree is typically charged when the property is valued between $50,000 and $1,000,000. This is a class C felony, which is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
- Grand larceny in the first degree is typically charged when the property is valued at more than $1 million. This is a class B felony and carries a possible prison sentence of up to 25 years.
No matter the degree, the consequences of a grand larceny conviction are severe and potentially life-altering.
Factors Considered in Prosecuting Grand Larceny
In general, prosecutors must show beyond a reasonable doubt that someone charged with grand larceny knowingly and intentionally stole property worth more than $1,000. Other relevant factors include the overall value of the allegedly stolen property and the defendant’s criminal record, if any. A prosecutor could be more open to a plea deal if the defendant may not have intended to steal the property in question and/or does not have a prior criminal record.
How an Attorney Can Assist Someone Accused of Grand Larceny in New York City
If someone is charged with grand larceny in New York City, they should contact a knowledgeable and experienced grand larceny lawyer. During an initial evaluation, the attorney will discuss possible defenses and legal strategies, answer questions, and explain New York’s criminal justice system.
Once hired, the attorney can go to work compiling evidence such as witness testimony and surveillance footage. Once evidence is gathered, they will consider different defense strategies tailored to the specific circumstances of the case.
During court proceedings, the attorney will aggressively advocate for their client. They also will negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or penalties, or even try to get the charges dropped altogether. In addition, the attorney can suggest a possible plea deal and explain its consequences to their client.
FAQs
Grand larceny means taking someone’s property worth more than $1,000 with the intent to deprive them of it.
Penalties can include having to serve a multiyear jail term, paying a fine and/or restitution, serving years of probation, or some combination of these. Specific punishments depend on the facts of a given case, particularly the value of the property stolen.
Yes. The amount of jail time depends on the degree of grand larceny and can be anywhere from one to 25 years.
No. New York law generally does not allow individuals to expunge felony offenses such as grand larceny from their record. However, it may be possible to get a grand larceny conviction sealed from public view under New York Criminal Procedure Law 160.59.
There are several potential defenses. For example, under New York Penal Law Section 155.15, if someone genuinely thought they had the right to take the property, they may have a solid defense. There also could be evidence that the defendant took the property by mistake or just intended to borrow and return it, neither of which is considered larceny.
This depends on the circumstances. The best way to assess one’s legal options, including whether to accept a plea deal or go to trial, is to speak to a knowledgeable grand larceny lawyer.
Call Rosenblum Law for a Free Consultation
Being charged with a crime, particularly a felony offense, is stressful and scary. A conviction could result in jail time, fines, and a host of other consequences.
This is why you should contact Rosenblum Law to schedule a free confidential case evaluation if you are charged with grand larceny. After the consultation, if you hire us, one of our experienced defense attorneys can negotiate with prosecutors to try to get the charge reduced or dismissed. If necessary, we will represent you in court and try to beat the charge altogether. So don’t hesitate – call us today.
Last updated: Dec 6, 2024
