NYC
Theft Lawyer
Theft Attorney in New York City
Anyone charged with a theft-related offense in New York could face stiff penalties like restitution, other fines, and potentially lengthy periods of incarceration. There are many different degrees of theft, and each carries specific penalties, legal considerations, and sentencing guidelines. Regardless of the theft charges pending against you, it is essential to secure a qualified NYC theft lawyer as soon as possible.
Hire a Theft Lawyer in NYC
With its well-known shopping, shoplifting is a common theft accusation in the city. An accusation, however, is not a conviction. Working with the right attorney can help you with your chances of securing a favorable outcome.
A skilled theft and criminal defense lawyer in NYC can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, advocating for your interests and protecting your rights. At the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, our team provides you with the legal counsel you deserve. With our decades of combined experience, you won’t put your future on the line. You will secure it. Our team works tirelessly to pursue an acquittal, a reduction of charges, or an outright dismissal.
There are several benefits to working with the dedicated attorneys at the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, including:
- 24/7 availability to quickly address your needs
- Focus on client-forward guidance
- Multilingual services
- We will return all calls and emails within hours
- The experience from thousands of cases handled and a record of success
- State and federal court experience, including the Manhattan, New York County Criminal Court
Our team is made up of trial-ready and top-rated defense attorneys who understand the intricacies of New York larceny law. Your future is at stake when you face criminal charges, and you don’t want to leave your life up to chance. You need a legal team you can count on.
Types of Theft Charges
In 2024, there were 158,769 larceny offenses reported in New York City, as well as 13,248 burglary offenses. The same year, there were 5,327 convictions of petit or grand larceny offenses not involving public corruption in the city.
In New York State, there are many unique categories for theft charges. All offenses are related to illegally transferring goods, services, or funds from one individual or group to another. There are many designations for these crimes, though some common terms include larceny, burglary, and robbery.
In New York, Title J of the Penal Code arranges theft crimes in the following sections:
Section 155 – Larceny
Section 156 – Crimes Involving Computers
Section 158 – Welfare Fraud
Section 160 – Robbery
Section 165 – Other Offenses Related to Theft
Speaking with a lawyer about your specific charges can help identify which section may apply to you. This can help identify not only potential penalties but also serve as the catalyst for building your defense. Your lawyer will work with you to develop the right defense strategy and build the confidence you need to overcome your charges.
Proven 2026 Theft Crime Case Results & Outcomes
NYC Theft & Larceny Case Results
Grand Larceny (Felony)
Where Handled: Manhattan Criminal Court
The client faced a felony conviction and incarceration. Counsel monitored discovery obligations and allowed speedy-trial time to accrue, leading to a procedural challenge.
Result: Dismissed & Sealed
Timeline: ~4 Months
Felony Financial Crime
Where Handled: Queens Supreme Court
Facing state prison and $1M+ in restitution for business record falsification. Counsel litigated motions and coordinated asset liquidation to satisfy court requirements.
Result: No Incarceration
Timeline: ~3.5 Years
Theft Offense Penalties in New York City
The primary larceny-theft offenses in New York are petit larceny and grand larceny. Petit larceny applies to theft offenses unless an aggravating factor makes it a grand larceny offense. An aggravating factor might be the value of the property stolen, the type of property stolen, or how the property was stolen. These offenses carry the following penalties:
Petit larceny. This is a Class A misdemeanor, and a conviction can lead to up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Grand larceny, fourth degree. Conviction results in a Class E felony, resulting in up to four years of imprisonment and fines up to $5,000.
Grand larceny, third degree. This is a Class D felony, and conviction can result in up to seven years of imprisonment and as much as $5,000 in fines.
Grand larceny, second degree. This is charged as a Class C felony. Conviction can lead to up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
Grand larceny, first degree. This is a Class B felony, and a conviction leads to as much as 25 years in prison and fines up to $30,000.
These offenses may also carry other penalties, like restitution paid to the victim. No matter what type of charge you are facing, they all have lasting impacts outside of the law. A criminal record can limit where you live or where you work.
When you speak with a lawyer, share all the details of your case so they can help determine if any mitigating circumstances may play a role in any future charges or in any potential penalties you could face.
Featured Insight From Attorney Robert Tsigler
Founding Attorney Robert Tsigler was featured on News 12 discussing why a woman repeatedly accused of “dine-and-dash” offenses continues to be released despite multiple arrests.
He explained how New York’s bail laws classify theft-of-services cases and why prosecutors face legal limitations in seeking bail.
“Theft of services is a non-violent misdemeanor that doesn’t put the community at risk. He says that most misdemeanors simply aren’t eligible for bail.”
“They would need to use a stolen credit card,” Tsigler added. “Or an argument could be made if they purchase an item over $1,000, like a bottle of wine, they could be charged with grand larceny, which is a felony.”
— Robert Tsigler, Founding Attorney, as featured on News 12
His explanation underscores the challenges prosecutors face when dealing with repeat theft-of-service cases in New York. Unless the law changes or felony criteria are met, judges are required to release most defendants under supervision rather than setting bail.
FAQs About NYC Theft Laws
How Much Evidence Is Needed to Be Charged With Theft in New York City?
The evidence needed to charge and convict a person with theft in New York City is whatever evidence is needed to prove they committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution must be able to prove that the individual accused of the crime acted to wrongfully take, secure, or withhold the property of a person, and intended to deprive that person of their property or intended to obtain their property for themselves or someone else.
What Is Considered Theft in New York?
Theft in New York is the offense of taking or retaining someone’s property wrongfully, with the intent to keep it from them. Theft offenses also include many ways that property is stolen, such as wage theft, false promises, acquiring lost property, false pretenses, embezzlement, extortion, issuing a bad check, or deed theft.
How Can You Win a Theft Case?
The most effective way to be successful with a theft case is to work with a skilled theft defense attorney. When you hire a theft lawyer, they can assess the case the prosecution has, the specifics of your alleged offense, and your side of the story. Using this information and their legal knowledge, they can determine what defense is ideal to mitigate your charges or avoid conviction entirely.
What’s the Minimum Amount Stolen That Is Still Considered Petty Theft?
An offense may be considered petty theft if the value of the property stolen is $1,000 or less, but this does not apply to all property. Theft of property over $100 is not petty theft if the property is specific items like a motor vehicle or objects of religious worship. Other types of property are not considered petty theft, no matter what the value. This includes theft of credit cards, firearms, and other property.
NYC Theft Lawyer
In New York, theft-related offenses are considered very serious. There are many types of larceny and theft charges that can be levied against individuals, groups, and organizations. Regardless of what you may be facing, it is essential to secure the representation of a skilled theft attorney in New York City as quickly as possible following your arrest. The Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC can help.
If you have been charged with burglary, larceny, or robbery, do not delay. Contact the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, for a consultation. With our knowledge and experience on your side, you can confidently pursue an acquittal, a reduction of charges, or a dismissal. With decades of experience, we can support you regardless of your case’s complexity.
Act Now. Call 718-878-3781
In the state of New York, theft related offenses are considered very serious. Within each of the above sections, there are many specific charges which can be levied against individuals, groups, and organizations. Regardless of what you may be facing, it is essential to secure the representation of a skilled theft attorney in New York City as quickly as possible following your arrest.
We Serve Clients Across NYC
- Brooklyn Theft Defense
- Queens Theft Defense
- Staten Island Theft Defense
- Manhattan Theft Defense
- Bronx Theft Defense
NYC Theft Crime Resources
- New York Penal Code § 155.42: Grand Larceny in the First Degree
- New York Penal Code § 155.40: Grand Larceny in the Second Degree
- New York Penal Code § 155.35: Grand Larceny in the Third Degree
- New York Penal Code Section 155.30: Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree
- New York Penal Code Section 160.15: Robbery 1st Degree
- New York Penal Code § 160.10: Robbery 2nd Degree
- New York Penal Code § 160.05: Robbery 3rd Degree
- New York Penal Law § 140.30: Burglary 1st Degree
- New York Penal Law § 140.25: Burglary 2nd Degree
- New York Penal Law § 140.20: Burglary 3rd Degree
- New York Penal Law § 140.17: Criminal Trespass 1st Degree
- New York Penal Law Section 140.15: Criminal Trespass 2nd Degree
New York City
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Real Results
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Rob is a great criminal defense attorney whom I would recommend for his expertise and communication-style.
—Brad
Robert knew exactly what he was doing and he got the CHARGES DISMISSED!!! Couldn't ask for a better attorney. I definitely recommend him.
—Mike
The best criminal defense lawyer. Takes his client’s calls at any time of the day or night. He was always there for me and my family. Saved my life.
—Jacquille
I retained Robert Tsigler to help me with a criminal case. He exceeded all my expectations and was able to get a great resolution for me... He was highly respected by the district attorney.
—David
I hired Robert to defend me in a case where the cops arrested me for something I didn't do. I was really worried and angry that I was arrested for something that wasn't my fault. Robert told me to relax and that he would handle everything. He kept his word and got all the charges dropped!
—Joe
We Set the Bar Others Strive to Reach
The Theft Law firm of Robert Tsigler, PLLC is Ready to Fight for You!
If you have been charged with burglary, larceny, or robbery, do not delay. Call the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC at 718-878-3781 for a consultation.
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