Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

First, you go to court and plead not guilty. If you can afford an attorney, have one with you. If you can't afford an attorney, ask the court to appoint one. A first timer on a petit larceny could get an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal ("ACD") which is an adjournment for 6 months and if you are not in further trouble with the law, the case would be dismissed. There could also be other terms and conditions of the ACD like restitution or drug treatment. Otherwise, your attorney can negotiate the matter. You will not likely go to jail. However, the process is arraignment and plea of not guilty, conference, plea or trial and dismissal or sentencing.