If I have a past criminal record can i get a lesser chrage other that petty larceny and jail time?

You hire a lawyer and defend it. Your past is a factor BUT it does not control the offer. Joseph A. Lo Piccolo, Esq. Immediate Past...

Can you be charged with petty larceny going into the vestbule with your shoping cart?

Potentially, yes. Joseph A. Lo Piccolo, Esq. Immediate Past President, Criminal Courts Bar Association 11'-12' Hession Bekoff & Lo...

What would make a DA drop the charges before an hearing?

Generally, no. They are not that honest and fair. Joseph A. Lo Piccolo, Esq. Immediate Past President, Criminal Courts Bar Association...

In amisdemeanor assault case is it possible for a DA to drop the charges before the hearing? How?

Can they, yes. Will they, not likely. Witnesses come down to credibility and reliability and often it is a he said/he said in these cases and...

Statue of limitation? When does it start?

Statute of limitations starts on the date of the incident. Don't pay the demand. Joseph A. Lo Piccolo, Esq. Immediate Past President,...

I qualify for almost all requirements for deferred action except the age. I entered at 16?

I believe it is a firm age of 15 but you should speak to an immigration attorney. Joseph A. Lo Piccolo, Esq. Immediate Past President,...

I lied to the police to protect my ex but now I want to come clean. What are my next steps and how much trouble will I be in?

If you come clean, they could charge you with perjury. Think long and hard before continuing. Joseph A. Lo Piccolo, Esq. Immediate Past...

I believe it means 1st appearance to be considered for release. Joseph A. Lo Piccolo, Esq. Immediate Past President, Criminal Courts Bar...

My father victim of an Illegal verdict?

It's confusing but it sounds like the jury found the value was not a felony but the item was taken making it a petit larceny. A jury can find that...

What happens if one of the witnesses finally is going to get heard, but is planning on leaving the country before the court date

If they give a sworn statement BUT is not available b/c they are "unavailable" for whatever reason, a judge decides whether to accept the testimony...