Shoplifting Charges, Sec. 155.25 of the Penal Law

[peedi]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: New York

Hello everyone I was recently arrested for switching a tag at a retail store and putting it on another item at a lower price, and got caught by the cameras at Macy's in Albany, NY. I signed the papers and all, i am banned from there for life, the cops came finger printed me and all and i have a court date. This is my first offense, full time student and i work. 21 years old.

I was wondering if you think they will reduce this to a violation + ACD + Community service? What is the maximum punishment i can get? What are my chances of this not being on my record?

[Mr. Knowitall]

The manner in which charges are handled can vary enormously from county to county, and even from judge to judge. The best way to find out the practices and policies of the local court, prosecutor and judge assigned to your case is by discussing your situation with a local criminal defense lawyer.

Petit Larceny is a Class A misdemeanor, and the maximum penalty for a Class A misdemeanor is normally up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. People rarely get the maximum jail sentence, and for first offenses probation is pretty typical. Note, however, that between the fine and court assessments, the financial penalty can easily exceed $1,000.