Ithaca Theft Crimes Lawyers

Experienced Defense Against Theft Crimes in Tompkins County

If you have recently been accused of committing theft in New York, there is no time to hesitate to seek tenacious legal advocacy. Theft is treated as a very serious crime, and those convicted are subject to paying excessive fines and potential prison time. With the support of an experienced theft crime attorney in Ithaca, you can fight against unfair accusations and seek your right to a fair trial. At The Law Office of Charles H. Kee, we aim to provide you with the toughest legal representation. 

Call us today at (800) 954-5724 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with one of our theft crimes attorneys in Ithaca!

Theft Crime Classifications in New York

In the state of New York, theft is defined as wrongfully taking or keeping another person's property, regardless of whether that property is physical or intellectual. There are several forms of theft crime, but the most commonly known is that of larceny, which primarily refers to taking a piece of property or physical object.

According to NY Penal § 155.00, such objects can include money and valuables but also extend to digital programs, financial contracts, or even fuel and energy sources (such as electricity or water) set at a monetary value. Shoplifting is also considered to be larceny and depriving another person of property for such a long period of time that the object loses value.

Some of the more common examples of larceny in New York include:

• Engaging in larceny either by trickery, deception, or embezzlement
• Acquiring a piece of property with false promises or deceitful means
• Taking a piece of lost property
• Utilizing extortion to gain property

What are the Penalties for Theft Offenses in New York?

Depending on the degree of theft that is committed, a person who has been charged could face highly significant consequences, resulting in a detriment not only to their own lives but to the lives of their family members. If the object in question is worth less than $1,000, the crime is considered a "petit larceny." According to NY Penal § 155.25, this falls under a class A misdemeanor, and the penalty would be spending up to a year in jail and paying a fine of $1000. 

However, the penalties for different forms of "grand larceny" (referring to anything stolen that is worth over $1,000) can range quite widely. Fourth-degree grand larceny can result in a fine of $5,000 and a 4-year long imprisonment. The highest level of grand larceny, however – first-degree larceny of an object worth more than a million dollars – is not only classified as a B felony but can result in imprisonment of up to 25 years (see NY Penal § 155.42). Without the support of a powerful theft crime lawyer in Ithaca, it can be challenging to ensure that you have a fair trial to enable you to avoid these devastating consequences.

Strategic Defenses For Theft Crime Accusations

Mounting a strong defense is crucial when facing theft crime charges. 

Our experienced attorneys employ a range of defenses to safeguard your interests:

• Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that the accused did not intend to commit theft.
• Mistaken Identity: Establishing that the individual charged was not the perpetrator.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence to weaken the case against you.
• Duress or Coercion: Showing that the accused committed the theft under the threat of harm or force.
• Procedural Errors: Identifying errors or misconduct in the legal process that may impact the case.

Our legal team meticulously analyzes the details of each case to determine the most effective defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances.

Contact Our Ithaca Theft Crimes Attorneys Today

Confronting charges related to theft crimes can be a challenging ordeal, yet having proficient legal representation empowers you to navigate the legal system with assurance. The Law Office of Charles H. Kee is prepared to deliver the adept defense required in Ithaca. Rely on our seasoned attorneys to champion your rights and strive to attain the most favorable resolution for your case.

Contact The Law Office of Charles H. Kee today to schedule a meeting with one of our theft crimes lawyers in Ithaca!