Though we tend not to think of shoplifting as one of the worst crimes a person can commit, the truth is, a simple mistake can have drastic impacts on your future. Please continue reading to learn more about shoplifting charges in New Jersey and how our Middlesex County, New Jersey criminal defense lawyer can fight them at every turn. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What is the legal process if I am charged with shoplifting in NJ?
The first thing you should understand is that the dollar value of the allegedly stolen item will impact how your case is handled. If you are charged with stealing less than $200-worth of merchandise, your case will be treated as a disorderly persons offense and will be handled by the municipal court in the town where the incident allegedly occurred.
That being said, if you face felony shoplifting charges, your case will most likely be hard in the County Court or Superior court in the county where the incident allegedly occurred. If you are facing shoplifting charges, you must speak with an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney who can view all video/audio recordings and police reports associated with your case and determine the best route forward.
What happens if I am convicted of shoplifting in NJ?
Depending on the dollar amount of merchandise stolen, you can face a wide array of penalties. They are as follows:
- Stolen property valued at less than $200: A disorderly person’s offense, which can entail a potential 6-month jail sentence and a potential $1,000 fine.
- Stolen property valued between $200-$500: A 4th-degree crime, which can entail an 18-month jail sentence and up to $10,000 in fines.
- Stolen property valued between $500-$75,000: A 3rd-degree crime, which can entail a 3-5 year jail sentence and up to $15,000 in fines.
- Stolen property valued at more than $75,000: A 2nd-degree crime, which can entail a 5-10 year jail sentence and up to $150,000 in fines.
If you’ve been charged with shoplifting in New Jersey, you must retain competent legal representation as soon as you can. You can depend on us to fight for your rights through every step of the legal process ahead. Give us a call today or contact us online so we can get started working on your case.
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