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Long Island Theft and Burglary Defense Attorneys

Defending Larceny, Robbery, and Burglary Charges

Property crime charges in New York vary enormously in severity — from a petit larceny misdemeanor over a low-value item to a first-degree burglary felony involving a weapon. The value of property involved, whether force was used, and prior criminal history all shape how a case is charged and what penalties are on the table. MontanaroLaw P.C. represents clients throughout Nassau and Suffolk County against theft-related charges.

Charges We Handle

  • Petit Larceny (Penal Law § 155.25): Class A misdemeanor for theft of property valued at $1,000 or less.
  • Grand Larceny (Penal Law §§ 155.30–155.42): Felony theft charges scaled by degree based on the value of property stolen, from over $1,000 up to over $1 million.
  • Robbery (Penal Law §§ 160.05, 160.10, 160.15): Forcible theft, charged as a felony in all degrees, with severity increasing when a weapon is used or injury results.
  • Burglary (Penal Law §§ 140.20, 140.25, 140.30): Unlawfully entering or remaining in a building with intent to commit a crime, ranging from a class D to a class B felony.
  • Criminal Possession of Stolen Property (Penal Law §§ 165.40, 165.45, 165.50, 165.52, 165.54, 165.60: Knowingly possess stolen property, with intent to benefit yourself or another person other than an owner or to impede the recovery by the owner.
  • Shoplifting and Retail Theft: Taking merchandise from a store without paying for it.

What’s at Stake

Because grand larceny and burglary charges are felonies, a conviction can mean state prison time, restitution obligations, and a permanent record that follows you into future employment and housing applications. Even misdemeanor petit larceny convictions can affect job opportunities, particularly in fields requiring background checks or professional licensing.

Common Defenses in Theft / Burglary / Robbery / Larceny Cases

Theft and burglary cases often hinge on intent — the prosecution must prove the defendant intended to permanently deprive the owner of property or intended to commit a crime upon unlawful entry. MontanaroLaw P.C. examines the evidence of intent, ownership disputes, mistaken identity, surveillance footage quality, and whether property valuations used to determine felony thresholds are accurate and properly supported.

Domestic Violence-Related Assault Charges

Assault charges arising from domestic incidents carry additional complications, including orders of protection that can affect custody, housing, and contact with family members even before a case is resolved. We help clients understand and, where appropriate, challenge these orders while defending the underlying charge.

Contact MontanaroLaw P.C.

If you’ve been charged with theft, larceny, robbery, or burglary in Nassau or Suffolk County, call (516)-203-1700 today for a free, confidential consultation.