Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

Petty Larceny, NY

I have no prior criminal history. I was at a Grocery store last night. I had merchandise in a bag (one of the reuse ones I brought with me). I left with the merchandise. I did not mean to leave but of course no one believes that. I offered to pay and they did not want to hear that they just wanted to have me arrested. The merchandise was worth $79 and some change. Wegmans wants me to pay $398 civil demand to them. I also have a court date jan 22 @ 6 pm.

I am guilty of this crime I tryed to leave. But I want to know if I have any options so this might not show up when I apply for jobs etc. This was for petty larceny.

Please response in my dire time of need.

I plan on pleading guilty, I was thinking about doing that without an attorney and hoping for leniency at my court date.


Asked on 12/30/08, 9:15 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Joel Salinger Law Office of Joel R. Salinger

Re: Petty Larceny, NY

If this is truly your first offense then you will be usually offered a plea bargain. YOU SHOULD GET AN ATTORNEY. I write this in caps because I want to make you understand how important this is in your case. The District Attorney will not talk to you and you will not be able to discuss your case directly with the DA. The only thing that will happen if you represent yourself is that the DA will make a one time offer and it might not be the best offer that can be negotiated. An attorney, talking on your behalf can talk to the DA and usually get you a non-criminal offer.

Joel R. Salinger, Esq.

Read more
Answered on 12/30/08, 12:20 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in New York