Dover Shoplifting Lawyer
Being charged with a crime such as shoplifting in Dover, New Jersey can be completely earth-shattering. You’re probably loaded with questions, including: what does a shoplifting offense mean? What are the penalties for shoplifting in New Jersey? Do I need an attorney to defend my shoplifting case? An experienced criminal defense lawyer is essential when you’re facing shoplifting charges in Dover or elsewhere in Morris County because a conviction can have consequences you never imagined. Shoplifting crimes are punishable by burdensome fines, restitution payments, community service, a criminal record, a jail sentence, and if you’re not a U.S. citizen, it may even prevent you from becoming one. However, you can confront allegations of retail theft with a well-formulated defense strategy that positions you for the best possible outcome. There are also programs such as the Conditional Dismissal program that may be used to have your charges dismissed if you meet eligibility requirements. To find out more and speak with a shoplifting defense attorney about your case, contact The Tormey Law Firm now at (908) 336-5008 for a free consultation.
Shoplifting Offenses in Dover NJ
The law against shoplifting in New Jersey is explained in NJSA 2C:20-11. Under this section, you can be charged with a shoplifting offense for actions ranging from taking merchandise without paying, to under-ringing items for your family or friends, or changing the price on a tag. The fundamental premise behind a shoplifting charge is that your conduct was committed with the intention of depriving the retailer from the full value of the merchandise. Depending on the actual value of the item or items involved in your Dover shoplifting case, you may be charged with a disorderly persons offense, fourth degree, third degree, or second degree crime. The monetary value of the merchandise determines both the degree of your shoplifting charges and the potential penalties you face if you’re ultimately found guilty. The grading and penalties for a violation of 2C:20-11 are as follows:
- Shoplifting items valued at less than $200 is a disorderly persons offense, which carries a maximum fine of $1,000 and a maximum sentence of six months in jail.
- Shoplifting merchandise valued between $200 and $500 is a fourth degree crime, punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.
- If you are accused of shoplifting items with a value that falls between $500 and $75,000, it is a third degree indictable offense with penalties including up to 5 years imprisonment.
- The most serious shoplifting offenses involve items with a collective value over $75,000 or offenses committed as a part of a larger criminal enterprise. This level of crime, classified as second degree, exposes defendants to a prison term ranging from 5 to 10 years.
As you can see, the higher the value of the allegedly stolen merchandise in a shoplifting case, the more severe the penalties you face.
Dover NJ Shoplifting Defense Attorney
Even the most minor shoplifting offense can result in a criminal record and immigration consequences that permanently impact your status. Keep in mind that shoplifting is a crime of moral turpitude, which is often factor that prevents individuals from obtaining the jobs they seek years down the line. Considering all of the possible outcomes, it is critical to take your shoplifting charges in Dover very seriously. The attorneys at The Tormey Law Firm have helped countless clients in your situation and we will thoroughly investigate your case to devise the best approach for reaching a dismissal. Call (908) 336-5008 for immediate assistance from a criminal defense lawyer who can answer all of your questions and guide you through the legal process.
