Identity Theft Lawyer Steuben County, NY

Last reviewed: July 2026

Someone used your name and Social Security number to open a credit card. You found out when a collection notice arrived in the mail, yet you never applied for the card. Now the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office is investigating. An identity theft accusation throws your reputation, your credit, and your freedom into chaos—and the consequences of a conviction can be life-altering. You need legal guidance that understands both the investigative side and the defense perspective. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation with Mr. Sris, who is a former prosecutor and the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

Facing an Identity Theft Investigation in Steuben County? Here’s Where to Start

You may feel overwhelmed, but an experienced attorney can begin working on your defense immediately. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team look at the evidence from every angle, scrutinizing how the investigation was conducted, whether your rights were violated, and whether the prosecution can prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt. The earlier you involve counsel, the more options remain open—from presenting mitigating information to the district attorney to negotiating a resolution that avoids a permanent criminal record.

What to Expect When Accused of Identity Theft in Steuben County

Once an identity theft accusation moves forward, the case will be heard in either a local criminal court—if the charge is a misdemeanor—or the Steuben County Supreme Court for felony charges. The court is located at 3 East Pulteney Square, Bath, NY. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most non‑violent offenses, so many defendants are released on their own recognizance after arraignment. Still, the court may impose conditions such as travel restrictions or supervision.

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle the entire process: reviewing the police report, obtaining discovery, challenging the legality of any search or seizure, and filing motions to suppress evidence if appropriate. They also evaluate whether an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) might be available for a first offense—a disposition that can result in the charges being dismissed after a period of good behavior. For a felony identity theft case, the matter proceeds through a grand jury and may require a trial; Mr. Sris’s prosecutorial background is an advantage at every stage because he understands how the district attorney builds a case.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Approaches Identity Theft Charges

Defending an identity theft charge often turns on intent and evidence. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine whether you had permission to use the information, whether you knew the information belonged to another person, and whether the prosecution can tie the alleged fraudulent activity to you beyond a reasonable doubt. They also look at the value of any loss—because the dollar amount can determine whether you face a misdemeanor or a felony. Challenging the valuation, or showing that the alleged victim did not actually suffer a loss, can sometimes lead to a reduction or dismissal.

Mr. Sris’s experience as a former prosecutor gives him insight into the tactics law enforcement and prosecutors use. He knows how investigators build identity theft cases, and he uses that knowledge to spot weaknesses—such as a flawed line‑up identification, an unreliable informant, or a violation of your Sixth Amendment right to counsel. Every defense is tailored to the specific facts of your situation.

Penalties If Convicted: What’s at Stake

Under New York law, identity theft is categorized by degrees, but the potential penalties are tied to the general sentencing structure of the Penal Law. A minor instance—for example, using someone’s credit card for a single small purchase—might be charged as a misdemeanor, which in New York can carry up to one year in jail. More extensive schemes involving tens of thousands of dollars or multiple victims can be charged as felonies, with prison sentences ranging from one to four years for a class E felony to significantly longer terms for higher‑level felonies. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.

Beyond incarceration and fines, a conviction for identity theft can have civil consequences. The alleged victim may seek restitution, and you could face civil lawsuits for damages. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work with you to understand the full scope of the potential fallout and to develop a strategy aimed at minimizing the damage to your life.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., launched his practice in 1997. He is a former prosecutor—a background that gives him a seasoned understanding of how the other side prepares its case. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His five‑jurisdiction admission means he can appear in state and federal courts across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. The Of Counsel team is engaged through Excella, not as employees, and works collaboratively on complex matters. When you call the firm, you reach a team that is dedicated to a thorough, well‑prepared defense—not corporate jargon, but real legal guidance from attorneys with deep roots in the courtrooms of the Southern Tier and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is identity theft under New York law?

Identity theft in New York involves knowingly using another person’s personal identifying information to obtain goods, services, credit, or anything else of value, or to commit a felony. The offense is set out in the New York Penal Law. It typically includes situations such as using someone’s name, Social Security number, driver’s license number, or financial account information without authorization. The charge level depends on the value of the property or services obtained, the number of victims, and whether the defendant has a prior history.

Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for identity theft in Steuben County?

Yes, you should contact an attorney as soon as you learn of an investigation or before you speak with law enforcement. Even if charges have not been filed, anything you say can be used against you. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can engage with investigators on your behalf, protect your Fifth Amendment rights, and work to prevent formal charges from being filed. Early intervention often leads to a better outcome. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How can an attorney defend against an identity theft charge?

Defense strategies often focus on challenging the evidence that you knew the information belonged to another person and intended to use it unlawfully. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine the chain of custody of any seized documents or devices, question witness credibility, and explore whether you had permission to use the information. They may also argue that the value of the alleged loss is lower than the prosecution claims, which can reduce a felony to a misdemeanor.

What is an ACD and can it help in an identity theft case?

An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a New York disposition in which the case is put on hold for a period of six to twelve months and then automatically dismissed if you have no new arrests. For a first‑time offender accused of a low‑level identity theft offense, an ACD can be an excellent result because it results in a dismissal and sealing of the record. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate whether your case is a good candidate for an ACD and negotiate with the prosecutor to secure that outcome when possible.

How serious is a felony identity theft charge in Steuben County?

A felony identity theft charge carries the potential for state prison time and a permanent criminal record, making it extremely serious. In New York, a felony is punishable by a minimum of one year and can run to decades for the highest‑level offenses. Beyond incarceration, a felony conviction can bar you from certain jobs, professional licenses, and even housing. Given the stakes, you need an experienced defense attorney to build the strong case.

Can identity theft charges be dropped or reduced?

Charges can be dropped or reduced if the evidence against you is weak, if your rights were violated, or if the prosecutor agrees to a plea resolution. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel will scrutinize the arrest report, any search warrants, and the alleged victim’s statements. If the prosecution cannot prove all elements of the offense, a motion to dismiss may be filed. In many cases, negotiation leads to a reduced charge that carries less severe consequences.

What role does the dollar amount play in an identity theft case?

The dollar amount of the loss or intended loss determines whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, and often drives the severity of the penalty. Disputing the valuation—for example, showing that a credit card was never used or that the alleged loss was exaggerated—can be a key part of the defense. Mr. Sris understands how to challenge the prosecution’s financial evidence and present alternative calculations that may lead to a lower charge.

How does New York’s bail reform affect an identity theft defendant?

Under New York’s 2020 bail reform, most identity theft defendants are released without having to post cash bail because identity theft is considered a non‑violent offense. This means you will likely be released on your own recognizance after arraignment, but you must still comply with any conditions the judge imposes, such as staying in contact with a pretrial services officer. Your attorney can explain what to expect at your first court appearance.

Can my criminal record be sealed if I am convicted of identity theft?

In some cases, yes, New York law provides a path to sealing certain criminal records. For eligible convictions, you may apply for conditional sealing under CPL § 160.59 after a waiting period. ACD dismissals result in automatic sealing. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can advise you on whether your situation qualifies for record sealing and help you file the necessary motions.

When should I hire an identity theft lawyer?

As soon as you suspect you are under investigation or have been arrested, you should contact an attorney. The moments right after an arrest are critical; anything you say can be used against you. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are available during business hours to take your call. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

For a complete analysis of the underlying statutes, please visit our comprehensive criminal defense overview.

Contact our New York location by appointment only. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule. Our New York location serves Steuben County and the surrounding communities: Bath, Corning, Hornell, Hammondsport, Addison, Painted Post, Wayland, Avoca, Canisteo.

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