YOU MAY HAVE SEEN TODD SPODEK ON THE NETFLIX SHOW INVENTING ANNA
When you’re facing a federal issue, you need an attorney whose going to be available 24/7 to help you get the results and outcome you need. The value of working with the Spodek Law Group is that we treat each and every client like a member of our family.
Client Testimonials
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THE BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR.
The BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR!!! Todd changed our lives! He’s not JUST a lawyer representing us for a case. Todd and his office have become Family. When we entered his office in August of 2022, we entered with such anxiety, uncertainty, and so much stress. Honestly we were very lost. My husband and I felt alone. How could a lawyer who didn’t know us, know our family, know our background represents us, When this could change our lives for the next 5-7years that my husband was facing in Federal jail. By the time our free consultation was over with Todd, we left his office at ease. All our questions were answered and we had a sense of relief.
New York Penal Code § 155.42: Grand Larceny in the First Degree If you’re reading this, it’s likely you’ve run into a serious legal problem involving high-value property—potentially over $1 million—and you need top-tier legal representation. At Spodek Law Group, we understand your anxiety, and we take that very seriously. Our objective is simple: fight to get you the best outcome possible.
What § 155.42 Means: Grand Larceny in the First Degree
Under New York Penal Code § 155.42, you can be charged with Grand Larceny in the First Degree if you’re accused of stealing property valued at more than $1 million. It’s a Class B felony carrying potential prison sentences of up to 25 years. That means if you’re convicted, you might spend a significant portion of your life behind bars.
But this isn’t the end of the story. Our firm has over 50 years of combined experience defending clients in cases that many say are unwinnable. We believe, earnestly, that every single case has a path forward—whether it’s challenging the evidence, proving lack of intent, or negotiating a favorable plea.
Federal Angle: Why It Matters
Grand larceny cases can escalate when federal agencies suspect interstate elements. If there’s any hint of wire transfers across state lines, electronically orchestrated transactions, or multi-state bank accounts, the Department of Justice (DOJ) could step in. That introduces separate legal hurdles—like federal sentencing guidelines, mandatory minimums, and the complexities of dual jurisdiction.
If you are looking for a lawyer that listens, is aggressive where needed, and holds his word above all else, Todd is the best pick. I had hired multiple attorneys prior to hiring the Spodek Group for a white collar case. The first thing that stood out to me was the cost, as anyone going through the process and dealing with the system, money was tight at that time - especially after hiring and firing multiple lawyers. The cost was not as high as others which was definitely a plus. Todd's intake process was also unlike other attorneys. He took the time to actually listen. He cared. He was trying to put himself in my shoes while I was explaining the situation to him and he really took the time to understand the whole situation. Other lawyers will give you 15 mins and send you a retainer agreement. Not Todd, I think he spent almost two hours with me as I was explaining everything.Not only was he great during the onboarding process, he was supportive and very informative through the entire plea process and eventually sentencing. After hiring him, I asked if I should hire a prison consultant, he told me to save my money as he would do everything they would. He was right and held up to his word. Later on I would hear from others that went with the prison consultants that they were a waste of money - I am glad I listened to Todd!When it came time for sentencing, two days prior to sentencing, the prosecutor tried increasing my proposed prison time by almost double - apparently a normal move. Todd and his team worked with me non-stop through the weekend prior to sentencing to ensure that I was not given additional prison time. Again, he took the time to listen and came up with a strategy to explain the case with great detail.Unfortunately, I did plead guilty as that was my best option. Todd and his whole team wrote up nearly 300 pages of a summary of what happened and why I should not be given prison time. If I breakdown the amount I spent with Todd versus the amount of work that I saw being done, I am shocked I was not charged four times as much. The other benefit was, a lot of criminal defense lawyers were just a single attorney with a paralegal or two. Todd had a team of people that I dealt with (5-7 people that I interacted with), but he was ALWAYS accessible. It would never take him more than an hour to reply unless he was in court.I was sentenced to prison and I was emotionally distraught. Todd and his team did whatever they could even after sentencing to make sure I was alright. He personally stayed in touch with my family to ensure I was doing alright and offered support to them. Most lawyers would consider the job complete at sentencing, not Todd.After prison, Todd still spent time with me to make sure I was on the right track and avoiding any potential risks in the future. He has also been giving advice on how to navigate probation etc and has not been looking at the clock for billing.Although I wish I had never been arrested in the first place, I am glad I had Todd and his team in my corner. Without them I likely would have had to spend a lot more time in prison than I did.Thank you, Todd, and the entire Spodek Law team, for helping turn what was a nightmare into a manageable situation!
I am immensely grateful to the entire team at Spodek Law Group for their unwavering dedication and exceptional expertise throughout my case. From our initial consultation to the final resolution, their professionalism and tireless advocacy made all the difference. Their strategic approach and attention to detail instilled confidence in me every step of the way.Thanks to their hard work and commitment, we achieved a truly favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. Not only did they navigate the complexities of my case with precision, but they also provided invaluable support and guidance during what was undoubtedly a challenging time. I cannot recommend Spodek Law Group highly enough, especially attorneys Todd Spodek and Claire Banks; they are beacons of excellence in the legal profession.YSP.
Todd, Ralph and Alex are amazing. Helped my husband get from a double digit number with multiple charges to a single digit, by the time I blink he will be out. They very professional and help with all your needs. They dealt with my anxiety and worry very well and they understand that your family member needs to get home as soon as possible.
Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.
I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence.Thank you team!
I recently had Spodek Law Group represent me for a legal matter in NYC and I am thoroughly impressed with their services.Alex Zhik secured the best possible outcome for my case.It was a seamless journey from the initial consultation to the resolution of my legal matter. From the moment I spoke to Todd about my case, his enthusiasm to help was evident, setting a positive tone for the entire experience. The efficiency and professionalism displayed by the team is commendable.A particularly noteworthy aspect of their service is their user-friendly portal to upload your documents/evidence. This not only simplified the process, but showcases their commitment to streamline the client experience.Lastly, in an industry where legal fees can often be a concern, I found their pricing to be very reasonable, making needing legal assistance feel accessible and stress-free.I am grateful for their support and wouldn't hesitate to turn to them again in the future.
Some clients worry about Double Jeopardy, but remember: being tried in state court doesn’t bar the feds from bringing separate charges if they find a distinct federal violation. At Spodek Law Group, we’re recognized nationwide for handling these overlapping state-federal investigations. It’s why so many clients, from all over the USA, choose us.
Potential Penalties and the Need for High-Powered Defense
A Class B felony conviction under § 155.42 might result in:
Lengthy Prison Time: Up to 25 years.
Hefty Fines: From thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the alleged financial loss.
Restitution: You might be forced to pay back what was allegedly taken.
Collateral Consequences: Losing professional licenses, facing immigration issues, or having trouble finding future employment or housing.
And if your case triggers federal charges, you’re dealing with an entirely different system, where sentencing guidelines can be harsh and judges often have limited discretion. If the feds say you crossed state lines—or used any form of interstate communication—your exposure to risk climbs even higher.
Our Defense Strategies: Custom-Tailored and Nuanced
At Spodek Law Group, we focus on real-world defense strategies. We pride ourselves on our ability to roleplay multiple scenarios, anticipate what the prosecution might do, and build layered defenses.
Challenging Intent
Scenario: You’re a corporate officer accused of mismanaging funds. The prosecution claims you knowingly took the money.
Strategy: We show there’s no criminal intent—maybe it was poor bookkeeping or a misunderstanding of how funds were allocated. We argue you had legitimate authority and no intention to defraud anyone.
Misidentification
Scenario: You allegedly stole $2 million in jewelry, but surveillance footage is grainy, and no one can confirm you were at the scene.
Strategy: We look at the reliability of every eyewitness, plus any questionable photographic or electronic evidence. If there’s no hard proof you committed the crime, we push for dismissal.
Entrapment and Government Overreach
Scenario: An undercover operative cornered you into a complex financial scheme you had no interest in pursuing until you were manipulated.
Strategy: We argue that law enforcement’s heavy-handed tactics or misleading promises coerced you into illegal conduct you wouldn’t have done otherwise.
Illegal Search and Seizure
Scenario: Authorities raided your office without a valid warrant and seized boxes of documents.
Strategy: We file motions to suppress anything gathered through unconstitutional methods. If the prosecutor relied on those materials, the case might collapse.
Paper Trail Forensics
Scenario: You’re accused of being the mastermind of a multi-state Ponzi scheme.
Strategy: We deploy professional investigators, forensic accountants, and digital experts. We’ve done this for high-profile clients (like Anna Sorokin/Delvey) and know how to dismantle questionable financial evidence.
A Quick Look at Core Defenses
Defense
Argument
Key Legal Reference
Lack of Intent
No willful theft took place
N.Y. Penal Law §§ 155.00, 15.05
Mistaken Identity
Unreliable identification or flawed surveillance
People v. Hall, 18 N.Y.3d 122 (2011)
Illegal Search/Seizure
Fourth Amendment violations
U.S. Const. amend. IV; N.Y. Const. art. I
Entrapment
Official induced or coerced the criminal conduct
N.Y. Penal Law § 40.05; Federal guidelines on entrapment
Insufficient Evidence
Prosecutor fails to meet burden of proof
In re Winship, 397 U.S. 358 (1970)
Real-World Tips and Practical Insight
Don’t Go Silent on Records: Keep any emails, invoices, and financial statements that might help us show you weren’t intentionally diverting funds.
Be Careful with What You Say: Anything you say—on social media or to investigators—can haunt you. Talk to your lawyer first.
Act Quickly: The earlier we jump on your case, the better the chance we have to shape the narrative, secure evidence, and negotiate with the prosecution.
Restitution Isn’t Always an Admission of Guilt: Sometimes returning property or funds can signal cooperation, but only if it lines up with a broader legal strategy.
What Makes Spodek Law Group Different
We’re not just another criminal defense law firm. We are a nationwide firm with offices throughout NYC and Long Island, and we’ve gained recognition for handling tough high-profile cases that end up in the spotlight. Our managing partner, Todd Spodek, is a second-generation attorney, featured on major news outlets like the NY Post, Newsweek, Fox 5, and many others. The Netflix show about Anna Sorokin? That’s our client—and just one example of how we tackle high-stakes legal matters.
We’re choosy about which clients we take on. We only accept cases we truly believe we can handle successfully, and that means we dedicate serious time and resources to every single client. Our attorneys leverage an advanced digital portal for seamless communication, ensuring you’re always up-to-date on the status of your case.
