Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

Re: Petit Larceny

A 16 year old who commits a first offense is eligible for "youthful Offender" treatment, which means that she can plead guilty to the charge, be placed on 3 years probation (which can be terminated sooner if she behaves herself) and at the end of the probationary period her record is cleared and she has no criminal record. In the alternative, if the DA agrees, she can ask for an ACD which means that the case is adjourned for a 6 month or 1 year period, and if she does not commit any other offense the charge is dropped. An ACD is preferable.

Re: Petit Larceny

Anyone who has reached the age of 16 years old is considered an adult for the purposes of criminal prosecution. If this is a first offense, normally the court will consider a plea bargain of an adjournment in contemplation of dismissal - known as an ACD. Many courts, however will require that such a bargain be made in the presence of legal counsel. If you cannot truly afford one, the court will entertain an application for assigned legal counsel. Good luck!