Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

17 year-old, petty theft, first-time offense; options?

My niece age 17 was arrested and charged with petty theft (a T-shirt), she has a court date coming. Given that she admitted the theft to the police, is there much point in hiring a lawyer? If she simply pleads guilty and says she's sorry, wouldn't the judge give her a lenient sentence or is there a real risk of a bad outcome. Thank you.


Asked on 7/17/08, 3:01 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Christopher Hoyt The Law Offices of Christopher W. Hoyt

Re: 17 year-old, petty theft, first-time offense; options?

She should get a lawyer. There may be a number of defenses available. Also, a lawyer may be able to work out a much better deal than she would get on her own. She should not be walking into court and pleading to a misdemeanor on a first arrest without speaking with an attorney first to see what her options are. You may contact my office for a free consultation if I may be of assistance.

Read more
Answered on 7/17/08, 12:31 pm

Re: 17 year-old, petty theft, first-time offense; options?

Definatly get a lawyer. Why should she plead guilty - its a misdemeanor - and have a criminal record the rest of her life? A good criminal defense attorney will resolve the case and leaver her without a criminal record. I am a former state and federal prosecutor so I may bw able to help depending on what county the case is in.

Read more
Answered on 7/17/08, 6:30 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in New York