In New Jersey, being charged with theft can have serious consequences. Whether you are facing accusations of petty theft or grand theft, it’s important to understand the various nuances within the theft law spectrum, and secure effective legal representation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the common types of theft cases, credit card misuse, shoplifting penalties, auto theft, and ways to potentially have a theft charge dropped.
Common Types of Crimes Handled By Our New Jersey Theft Defense Law Firm
Our experienced team of attorneys has handled numerous theft cases in New Jersey involving:
- Credit card theft
- Petty theft
- Shoplifting
- Auto theft and carjacking
- Grand theft
Credit Card Theft Defined
Credit card theft entails the unlawful use, possession, or attempted use of another person’s credit card information for unauthorized transactions. This includes stealing a physical credit card, intercepting card information electronically, or using stolen data to make online purchases.
Petty Theft in New Jersey
Petty theft often involves the unlawful taking of property valued at $200 or less. Although considered a lesser offense compared to other theft charges, the consequences may still impact your life significantly.
Charges That May Lead to a Petty Theft Case
- Shoplifting low-cost retail items
- Theft of personal belongings like wallets or bags
- Appropriation of found property
Penalties for Shoplifting Charges in New Jersey
Shoplifting is a common type of theft that carries varying penalties based on the value of the stolen goods:
- Items valued under $200: disorderly persons offense, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $1000 fine
- Items valued between $200 and $500: fourth-degree crime, punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a $10,000 fine
- Items valued over $500 but less than $75,000: third-degree crime, punishable by 3-5 years in prison and a $15,000 fine
- Items valued over $75,000: second-degree crime, punishable by 5-10 years in prison and a $150,000 fine
Auto Theft and Carjacking in New Jersey
Auto theft involves the unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, while carjacking includes the use of force or intimidation in the commission of auto theft.
Actions That Can Lead to a Carjacking Case
- Physically assaulting the vehicle owner or occupants
- Threatening harm with a weapon
- Unlawful entry of a parked vehicle with the intent to steal
Grand Theft in New Jersey
Grand theft involves the theft of property valued at over $200. This type of offense is dealt with more severely due to the higher value of the stolen goods.
Examples of Grand Theft
Grand theft is a serious crime that involves illegally taking someone else’s property with a high monetary value. Some common examples include:
- Stealing high-value items like jewelry, electronics, or expensive vehicles
- Embezzlement of significant amounts of money from an employer
- Real estate fraud involving the illegal transfer of property titles
If you’re facing grand theft charges, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced theft defense lawyer in New Jersey, who will help you understand the charges against you and develop a comprehensive legal strategy.
Can A Theft Charge Be Dropped or Downgraded?
Yes, a skilled and experienced legal professional may be able to negotiate on your behalf and possibly have your theft charges dropped or downgraded. This can happen through various means, including:
- Providing legal advice before an arrest
- Negotiating bail amounts and defending your rights during a first appearance
- Arguing for downgraded charges or dismissal before trial
- Requesting pre-trial intervention or other alternative options
Partnering with a seasoned theft defense lawyer in New Jersey is the first step in achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Expungement Opportunities in New Jersey
In some instances, expungement may be an option for those with a theft charge on their criminal record. Successfully expunging a theft conviction in New Jersey can provide numerous benefits, such as improved employment prospects and the removal of barriers to obtaining professional licensure. However, not all theft charges are eligible for expungement, and speaking with an experienced attorney is vital to understanding your options.
Why Choose Our Theft Defense Lawyer Services
When it comes to defending your rights and protecting your future, you should never settle for less than the best. Our theft defense lawyer in New Jersey offers:
- Years of experience handling theft cases and a deep understanding of the state’s legal system
- Personalized and dedicated attention to each client’s case
- Comprehensive legal strategies tailored to your unique circumstances
- Commitment to securing the best possible outcome for every case
Whether you’re facing grand theft charges or seeking expungement, our team of experienced legal professionals is here to offer you unrivaled expertise, guidance, and support.