What Can I Expect if I’m Charged with Shoplifting?
Whether you are dealing with shoplifting charges, or you have a loved one who was recently arrested, you likely have a lot of questions about potential charges and laws in New Jersey.
Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions regarding New Jersey’s shoplifting laws:
What Potential Charges Do I Face With Shoplifting Charges in New Jersey?
The charges for shoplifting vary, depending on the value of items stolen, as well as whether the offender has prior convictions. This includes:
- Items valued at less than $200: A total value of under $200 is considered a disorderly persons offense and can result in fines up to $1,000 with a maximum of six months of jail.
- Items valued between $200-500: A total value of between $200-$500 is considered a fourth-degree charge and can result in fines up to $10,000 with a maximum of 18-months of jail.
- Items valued between $500-$75,000: A total value of between $500-$75,000 is a third-degree charge and can result in fines up to $15,000 with a maximum of five years of jail time.
- Items valued more than $75,000: A total value of more than $75,000 is considered a second-degree charge and can result in fines up to $150,000, with a maximum of 10 years in jail.
There is little difference between someone who is caught shoplifting items of $500 or more and items up to $75,000. Many offenders do not realize the value of the items they are selling, and before they know it, their entire future is at risk.
Read more: A Guide To Common Defenses In Criminal Cases
Do I Have Options Following Shoplifting Charges?
You may or may not have options available if you are dealing with shoplifting charges. The only way to determine your options, however, is to discuss your case with a lawyer. Your lawyer may not be able to get your charges completely dropped, but they may be able to get them reduced. This could mean the difference between jail time or community service.
What Can I Expect to Happen in Court?
The process in which your charges are handled will depend on the type of charges you’re dealing with. We understand that it can be incredibly overwhelming to not know whether you will be taken to jail. This is another reason to consider working with a lawyer. Again, while a lawyer may not be able to keep you out of jail, depending on the details of your shoplifting arrest, they can help you navigate the legal process, so you know what to expect each step of the way.
Read more: Covid-19 To-Do List: Clear Your Criminal Record
Can Minors Be Charged With Shoplifting?
Minors can also be charged with shoplifting in New Jersey. Minors, however, will usually be processed through the family court system, rather than the traditional system. While minors are unlikely to be ordered to serve jail time, they may receive detention. Minors with criminal charges can also find it more difficult to gain employment or to attend college, significantly impacting their future. If your teen is charged with shoplifting in New Jersey, it is even more important to discuss your case with a lawyer.
Contact an Experienced Burlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Shoplifting Charges in New Jersey
Were you arrested or charged with shoplifting in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The attorneys at Gelman Law, LLC have successfully represented clients charged with shoplifting in Cherry Hill, Camden County, Burlington County, Gloucester County, and throughout New Jersey. Call (856) 861-4236 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 850 Rte 70 W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.
