Theft Attorney in Queens

Personal Representation for Theft & Larceny Charges in Queens

Being accused of theft or larceny in Queens can disrupt your life, affecting your career, reputation, and peace of mind. If you’re facing these charges, you deserve direct, honest, and knowledgeable legal guidance. I’m Sean A. McNichols, and at Sean A. McNicholas, P.C., I work with you personally from consultation to courtroom.

Many people charged with larceny feel overwhelmed by the process and uncertain about what comes next. In Queens, law enforcement agencies and courts follow strict procedures that can result in quick decisions about bail, arraignment, or other actions. 

Fast, informed legal advice from a theft crime attorney in Queens can help you navigate those moments confidently and give you a stronger foundation for every step that follows. I draw on years of local experience to guide clients through the unique challenges that theft and larceny cases often present here.

Contact me, Sean A. McNicholas, P.C., your former prosecutor and specialized theft attorney in Queens. I offer free consultations and affordable services. Call (475) 471-1971 or reach out online now.

The Critical Distinction: Petit Larceny vs. Grand Larceny

In New York, the charge you face is largely determined by the value of the property allegedly stolen or the nature of the property taken.

Misdemeanor: Petit Larceny (Penal Law § 155.25)

• Definition: Stealing any property, regardless of its value, provided the value is under $1,000.
• Classification: Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in local jail and a fine up to $1,000.

Felony: Grand Larceny (Penal Law § 155.30, et seq.)

Grand Larceny is always a felony. While it is often charged when the property value exceeds a certain threshold, it can be a felony even for low-value property if the item or the means of theft meets a specific statutory criterion.

• Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree (§ 155.30): Involves property valued over $1,000 but less than $3,000; classified as a Class E Felony, punishable by up to 4 years in prison.
• Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (§ 155.35): Involves property valued over $3,000 but less than $50,000; classified as a Class D Felony, punishable by up to 7 years in prison.
• Felony Regardless of Value: Applies when the stolen item is a credit or debit card, a firearm, or property taken directly from a person (pickpocketing); classified as a Class E Felony, punishable by up to 4 years in prison.

As your Queens theft crimes lawyer, I meticulously analyze the valuation of the property—often challenged through depreciation—and the specific statutory definition used by the prosecution to ensure the charge is not overclassified.

Long-Term Consequences of a Larceny Conviction in New York

A theft conviction is classified as a crime of moral turpitude, meaning the consequences are especially devastating to your trustworthiness and professional life.

• Employment Disqualification: A felony theft conviction is a permanent disqualification from most licensed professions (finance, insurance, law, real estate) and can lead to the revocation of existing professional licenses by state boards.
• Immigration Status: A conviction for Grand Larceny, or even Petit Larceny with certain aggravating factors, can be classified as a Crime Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT) or an Aggravated Felony, leading to mandatory detention and deportation for non-citizens.
• Reputation and Housing: The stigma of a conviction for dishonesty severely restricts housing options in Queens and New York City, as landlords frequently use criminal background checks to deny tenancy.

Key Elements I Challenge in Every Theft Case

Larceny requires proof of specific intent to steal. My defense strategy focuses on dismantling the prosecution’s proof of this intent (mens rea) and their ability to sustain the property valuation.

• Lack of Intent to Permanently Deprive: Larceny requires the specific intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property. I challenge this by arguing:
  • Mistake of Fact: The accused genuinely believed the property was his or her own.
  • Temporary Borrowing: The accused intended only to use the property temporarily and intended to return it, which may reduce the charge to Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle (a lesser offense).
• Challenging Property Valuation: Grand Larceny hinges on precise property value (Penal Law § 155.20). As a former prosecutor, I know the State must prove market value. I hire private investigators and appraisers to challenge the valuation, often forcing a felony charge (Grand Larceny) down to a misdemeanor (Petit Larceny).
• Constitutional Challenges: My firm meticulously reviews police procedure for violations of the Fourth Amendment (illegal search) or Fifth Amendment (coerced confessions), often leading to the suppression of evidence that forms the core of the State’s case.

Why Choose My Larceny Lawyer Services in Queens

My work always focuses on the needs of Queens residents. With over 25 years devoted to criminal law, and prior service as a Queens prosecutor, I bring firsthand insight into how cases are handled here. When you call Sean A. McNicholas, P.C., you speak directly with me—you never get passed to a junior associate or paralegal.

My direct experience with the Queens County District Attorney’s Office lets me anticipate how theft and larceny cases proceed. This understanding helps set realistic expectations about local court timelines, negotiations, and sentencing practices. Because my work centers exclusively on criminal defense in Queens, I have valuable insight into how local judges approach theft charges.

The Legal Defense Process with a Queens Theft Crime Lawyer

Clients often wonder what the legal defense process will look like in Queens. When you reach out, I lead you through each step so you always know where you stand. Facing a theft or larceny charge can bring uncertainty—especially when navigating the process for the first time. 

As a theft crime lawyer in Queens, I combine local courtroom familiarity with direct client support. Here is what you can expect when working with me:

• Clear, honest case review: I discuss your case personally and explain likely pathways.
• Consistent communication: You have direct access to me, and I keep you updated with every development.
• Court process guidance: I outline the steps within Queens courts, which can include arraignment, hearings, negotiations, and appearances before a judge.
• No surprises: I provide timely updates and straightforward explanations so you always know what’s next.

Contacting a larceny lawyer in Queens as soon as possible gives you the advantage of early planning—helping you protect your rights and prepare for each court date the right way.

Contact a Trusted Larceny Attorney in Queens for Personal Guidance

If you or someone you care about faces theft or larceny charges in Queens, take the next step toward clarity and protection. Reach out to Sean A. McNicholas, P.C. for a free, confidential consultation. By contacting my office, you’ll discuss your case directly with me, benefit from over 25 years serving this community, and gain a partner focused on communication and personalized legal support.

Call (475) 471-1971 or reach out online today and let’s discuss how I can help you move forward from this situation.

FAQs

What should I do if I am accused of theft in Queens?

Stay calm, avoid discussing the case with anyone except your lawyer, and request to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Early legal advice can help protect your rights and prevent missteps.

Will a theft or larceny charge stay on my record?

A conviction can remain on your criminal record, which may affect employment, housing, or education. Legal representation may help reduce these impacts, depending on the case details.

What’s the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?

Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000. Grand larceny covers thefts above that amount, with increasing degree charges for higher values or special circumstances.

Do Queens courts treat theft crimes differently than other boroughs?

Queens courts operate under the same state laws, but local procedures, court staff, and prosecutorial practices can affect how a case progresses and is resolved.

How soon should I contact a lawyer for a theft or larceny case?

Contact an attorney as soon as you learn you are under investigation or charged. Quick action improves your chances of understanding options and building a strong defense.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION