In New Jersey, shoplifting falls under the general category of theft.  Those who are charged with shoplifting may also be charged with theft.  A shoplifting conviction will become part of your permanent criminal record no matter the value of the items allegedly stolen.  Many people who are charged with shoplifting feel that, because it is a minor charge, they don’t need the services of an attorney.

Is it important to have an attorney represent you in court for shoplifting charges?

The answer is always a resounding YES. A conviction for even minor charges will be with you forever, and every conviction comes with penalties.  Subsequent offenses carry enhanced penalties.  Reisig & Associates, LLC has experience providing a successful defense for all types of criminal charges – including those involving shoplifting.

Shoplifting Charges and Penalties

Shoplifting is the theft of property.  The charges for shoplifting and the associated penalties are based on the value of the goods that were allegedly stolen.

Under $200, Disorderly charge with penalty of up to 6 months in jail.

$200 – $500, 4th Degree (Felony) charge with penalty of up to 18 months in jail.

$500 – $75,000, 3rd Degree (Felony) charge with penalty up to 5 years in prison.

             > $75,000, 2nd Degree (Felony) charge with penalty up to 10 years in prison.

An additional penalty includes community service.  For the first offense there is a penalty of at least ten days of community service.  For the second offense, there is a penalty of at least 15 days of community service and, for the third offense, there is a penalty of 25 days of community service.  With a third conviction, the penalty is at least 90 days of mandatory jail time.

What is Considered Shoplifting?

In New Jersey, shoplifting consists of purposely concealing merchandise that has not been paid for with the intent to steal it.  The concealment may take place inside the store or outside of the premises.  When a merchant has probable cause to think that a person has shoplifted, the merchant is not criminally or civilly liable for causing an arrest. If you have been charged with shoplifting, it is important to seek assistance from a qualified attorney.  A New Jersey criminal defense attorney will work to resolve your case in the best possible manner.

Reisig & Associates, LLC is home to certified New Jersey criminal trial attorney, Matthew W. Reisig, who has extensive experience successfully defending cases, including those centered on shoplifting.  He will review your case and help defend you in a court of law.  Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you resolve your case.

Reisig & Associates, LLC
New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyers
(888) 628-8394

Related Information:

Get the Help of a Certified NJ Criminal Trial Attorney
Theft Charges in New Jersey
What a New Jersey Juvenile Attorney Can Do for You