New Jersey Criminal Defense Attorneys Fight Shoplifting Charges in Newark, Westfield, and Across New Jersey
Shoplifting is one of the most common offenses in New Jersey. Courts don’t like to send a person to jail for shoplifting charges, but it’s not unheard of either. Habitual offenders can get slapped with much stiffer penalties, including jail time and hefty fines. Even if you only receive a disorderly persons offense in municipal court, you’ll still get a conviction for the charge of theft. A criminal record can make it extremely difficult to find a home or to get employment in the future. Shoplifting charges increase based on many factors, including the value of the item(s) you stole. However, even something worth a few bucks can mark you with a criminal record. This is where having an experienced, skilled criminal defense attorney comes into play.
The attorneys at Bramnick, Rodriguez, Grabas, Arnold & Mangan, LLC will work closely with you to ensure that no detail is missed. We have over 25 years of experience defending clients in every type of criminal case in Bridgewater, Westfield, Plainfield, Clark, Cherry Hill, Cranford, Somerville, Bedminster, Hillsborough, Bernards Township and throughout New Jersey. From shoplifting and ID theft to assault and murder, we have successfully defended countless cases. We will help you. Contact our offices today.
What Are the Penalties for Shoplifting in Somerville, Bedminster, or Hillsborough, NJ?
The penalties for shoplifting are based on the degree of the offense. Shoplifting is considered a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey if the merchandise is valued at $200 or less. However, if you are a repeat offender, New Jersey requires a 90 day mandatory jail term. You can also be charged with fourth, third or second degree shoplifting, with second degree being the most serious.
Disorderly persons offense shoplifting penalties: Up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000
Fourth degree shoplifting penalties: Up to 18 months in jail and fines of up to $10,000
Third degree shoplifting penalties: Up to five years in prison and fines of up to $15,000
Second degree shoplifting penalties: Up to ten years in prison and fines of up to $150,000
Shoplifting Defense Lawyers Protect You Against Trumped Up Charges in Scotch Plains, Westfield, Union, Elizabeth, and Throughout New Jersey
At Bramnick, Rodriguez, Grabas, Arnold & Mangan, LLC, several of our attorneys are former prosecutors. Their knowledge of the prosecution’s tactics gives them valuable insight into the way a case will be handled. You may even qualify for a diversionary program, which acts as a form of rehabilitation rather than punishment. We will fight hard to protect your rights, keep you out of jail and keep your record clean.
Additionally, we know all too well that it is not unheard of for a shoplifting charge to be elevated to something much more serious, such as robbery. This can happen if any type of force is used during the act of stealing. However, force doesn’t need to involve pointing a gun at someone’s head. Even if the defendant simply touched a store employee when trying to flee, he may get charged with robbery. Robbery is a very serious crime. Don’t let yourself wind up serving 10 years in prison because of a trumped up shoplifting charge.
An experienced attorney is essential to make sure your charges are kept at a minimum, or even dismissed entirely. The attorneys at Bramnick, Rodriguez, Grabas, Arnold & Mangan, LLC will examine every detail of your case to identify potential weaknesses. We understand that the outcome of your case can change the course of your entire life, and we keep that in mind throughout the entire process. There is no substitute for experience when it comes to choosing an attorney. We will put our collective years of experience to work for you in West Orange, South Orange, Bloomfield, Montclair and throughout the state.
Do Not Jeopardize Your Future. If You’ve Been Charged with Shoplifting, Hire an Experienced Newark Retail Theft Attorney Right Away
An arrest for shoplifting can be very serious. Don’t try to go it alone. The experienced and successful criminal defense lawyers at Bramnick, Rodriguez, Grabas, Arnold & Mangan, LLC are ready and willing to take on your case and fight to protect your rights. Contact one of our offices for a free consultation about your case. We will be with you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoplifting Charges in New Jersey
FAQ: I didn’t actually leave the store with any merchandise. Can I still be convicted of shoplifting?
Yes. Shoplifting charges can stick even if you only concealed the merchandise with the intent of stealing it. You can also be charged with shoplifting if you alter a price tag or move merchandise into a different container with the intent to avoid paying the fair price. The prosecution does not have to show that you actually left the store with the merchandise.
FAQ: I received a letter in the mail demanding that I pay money based on my shoplifting charges, but it is from the store. Do I have to pay?
Probably. In addition to criminal penalties, larger retail stores often send a civil demand letter demanding that you reimburse them for the value of the merchandise. Civil penalties can also be imposed to reimburse the store for their trouble. While you may eventually be required to pay, you should speak with a lawyer before making any payment. It might be better to fight the demand in court or we may be able to negotiate to lower the amount.
FAQ: Will I be able to get a shoplifting conviction expunged from my record?
In some cases, yes. However, a waiting period applies so that you will have a criminal record for years before you are eligible for expungement. The best course of action is to speak with an experienced defense lawyer who can explore options to get the charges dismissed, reduced or fight to win a not guilty verdict in court.
