I have been recently charged with Petit Larceny in New York City. One moment of weakness and I am now petrified what it means for my future and my family's. I have no prior arrests or convictions. This was a simple lapse of judgement brought on by emotional distress in my personal life. I am really hoping for a positive outcome to a negative act, such as a dismissal, or anything that does not mar my clean record or jail time. My court date is not for another 4 months. I have already spoken to one lawyer who is asking for $3500 flat fee. My question to you is - is this fee normal for NYC? The lawyer in question is very reputable, and I can see them doing much for me. But can I get the same results, if not better, with another lawyer or public defender?

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Originally Posted by madcat1210

I have been recently charged with Petit Larceny in New York City. One moment of weakness and I am now petrified what it means for my future and my family's. I have no prior arrests or convictions. This was a simple lapse of judgement brought on by emotional distress in my personal life. I am really hoping for a positive outcome to a negative act, such as a dismissal, or anything that does not mar my clean record or jail time. My court date is not for another 4 months. I have already spoken to one lawyer who is asking for $3500 flat fee. My question to you is - is this fee normal for NYC? The lawyer in question is very reputable, and I can see them doing much for me. But can I get the same results, if not better, with another lawyer or public defender?

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No Attorney guarantees results. If you qualify for a public defender and don't want to spend $3,500, do that. Another Lawyer? Who knows -

And that is not high for NYC. In fact, that is not high in NYS. I see Attorneys charging $2,500 per Court appearance and by the hour for behind the scenese.

I am concerned that whatever is going on in your personal life has caused you to steal - the Courts hear this all the time and I've never seen a Court "buy" the excuse.