Facing a shoplifting charge in Newburgh, New York, isn’t as minor as some people think it is. Many people assume these charges can be handled without legal help, but this is a mistake. Shoplifting is still a theft crime, and a conviction can have lasting consequences on your life.
If you were charged with shoplifting, you’re facing potentially serious consequences in a court system you likely aren’t familiar with. A skilled legal team can help ensure you have the resources to build a strong criminal defense, which can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
At Larkin Ingrassia Andrews Criminal Defense Attorneys, our attorneys have more than 50 years combined experience and are ready to help you protect your rights. Contact us today at 845) 566-5345 to schedule a free consultation with a Newburgh shoplifting lawyer.
Why Hire Larkin Ingrassia Andrews Criminal Defense Attorneys If You’re Arrested for Shoplifting in Newburgh, NY?
Getting accused of shoplifting in Newburgh, NY, is serious, and making decisions without guidance can make an already tough situation even worse. Larkin Ingrassia Andrews Criminal Defense Attorneys is trusted by individuals throughout Newburgh who want a team to fight for them at every step.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Decades of experience defending people against criminal allegations, including theft
- Members of The National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- Recognized by Super Lawyers for outstanding and professional conduct
- Team-based approach on every client matter to help identify easily-missed issues
- Never recommending compromise unless it genuinely helps you, and always ready to take your case to trial
Whether you’re facing shoplifting charges for the first time in Newburgh, New York, or you’ve been through the system before, you’ll feel the difference with our approach. Let us put our experience to work for you. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with a Newburgh criminal defense lawyer.
Overview of Shoplifting in New York
In New York, shoplifting falls under the broader category of theft crimes. Shoplifting can happen in different ways, like hiding goods in a bag or under clothes, switching out price tags to pay a lower amount, using tools to get past anti-theft systems, or working with store employees to underpay.
Most accusations of shoplifting lead to a charge of petit larceny when the value taken is less than $1,000. If the shoplifted merchandise is worth more, the charges can be increased to grand larceny.
What Are the Penalties for Shoplifting in Newburgh, New York?
Penalties for shoplifting in Newburgh can become severe and will mostly depend on how much was taken and what charges are brought.
Petit Larceny
If the value of the stolen items is less than $1,000, the crime is generally treated as a Class A misdemeanor. Even a conviction for this as a misdemeanor can lead to fines, probation, or up to 364 days behind bars.
Grand Larceny
Theft of high-value items—where the stolen amount is over $1,000—can turn into a felony. Those convicted might face time in a state prison and be required to pay more significant fines. Prison time could reach 25 years, depending on the amount stolen.
Getting convicted doesn’t just lead to jail or probation. Penalties often include being ordered to pay back what was taken and having a permanent record of theft on your record, which can affect your ability to obtain housing and jobs.
Our Newburgh shoplifting attorneys can review your charges with you and explain more about what penalties you could be facing..
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Shoplifting?
If you’re accused of shoplifting in Newburgh, there may be effective ways to challenge the charges. The strategy your attorney uses often depends on the specific facts of your case.
Lack of Intent
One common defense challenges the idea that you intended to steal. Your lawyer can argue that you didn’t mean to take the items or that you forgot to pay because you were distracted. This can be an especially strong defense if you paid for other items in your possession.
Without proof that you meant to leave the store without paying, prosecutors may have trouble proving their case.
Mistaken Identity
Store security footage isn’t always clear. If someone else took the merchandise or you were misidentified, your attorney can dispute that you were actually the person seen committing the theft. It’s particularly helpful if you can provide an alibi, showing you were somewhere else at the time the items were allegedly stolen.
Ownership or Right to Possession
Sometimes people are accused of shoplifting when they didn’t actually steal anything. For example, if you bought an item in a store and continued to shop, a worker might think you took an item without paying as you walk out. You can show proof of purchase to refute the allegations.
Many accusations can be challenged, and not every shoplifting charge leads to a conviction. Our Newburgh criminal defense attorneys can help you fight to protect your legal rights .
Facing a shoplifting charge can be stressful, but you do not have to handle it alone. Larkin Ingrassia Andrews Criminal Defense Attorneys can review your case, identify potential issues, and help you better understand your situation. Legal guidance can ensure you make informed decisions about your next steps.
By having an experienced advocate, you don’t have to navigate the justice system alone or worry about saying something that might harm your case. Reach out to us to schedule a free consultation with a Newburgh shoplifting attorney today.