New Jersey Criminal Lawyers
If you are arrested for shoplifting in New Jersey, it is advised that you consult with a lawyer. If you have been arrested for shoplifting in Franklin Township, we may be able to assist you.
The criminal defense attorneys at Bramnick, Rodgriquez, Mitterhoff, Grabas, and Woodruff, L.L.C., are experienced at representing individuals who have been arrested for shoplifting. Attorneys Casey Woodruff, Gary Grabas, and Robert Rowbotham, II. are former prosecutors, whose experience as prosecutors have given them insight into the prosecution of shoplifting offenses. Jon Bramnick is a Certified Civil Trial Lawyer with over 30 years of trial experience.
How is Shoplifting Defined in New Jersey?
Frequently, issues arise as to why a person was charged with shoplifting when they, in fact, paid for the merchandise. The reason for this confusion is due to the broad definition of "shoplifting." Shoplifting offenses include:
- Taking merchandise without paying the full retail price;
- Concealing merchandise with the intent to deprive the owner of its full value;
- Altering, transferring, or removing the label or price tag of any merchandise with the intent to deprive the owner of its full value;
- Under-ringing merchandise; or
- Removing a shopping cart with no intention of returning it.
What are the Penalties for Shoplifting in New Jersey?
The penalty for a defended convicted of shoplifting depends on the value of merchandise. The table outlines the penalties for each offense.
|
Merchandise Value |
Imprisonment |
Fine |
Type of Offense |
|
$75,000 or more |
5 - 10 years |
Up to $150,000 |
2nd Degree |
|
Over $500 and less than $75,000 |
3 - 5 years |
Up to $150,000 |
3rd Degree |
|
$200 to $500 |
Up to 18 months |
Up to $10,000 |
4th Degree |
|
Less than $200 |
Up to 6 months |
Up to $1,000 |
Disorderly Persons |
If you are arrested for shoplifting in Franklin Township, your case will be handled in either Franklin Township Municipal court or Somerset County Superior Court depending on the value of the merchandise.
Franklin Township Municipal Court handles cases where the amount of merchandise taken totals less than $200. Franklin Township Municipal Court is located at 496 DeMott Lane. The Honorable Jeffrey C. Green and the Honorable E. Ronald Wright preside over the Court.
All other cases are handled in Somerset County Superior Court, located at 20 North Bridge Street in Somerville. The Criminal Division of the Court handles shoplifting cases.
If you would like to schedule a free consultation to discuss a shoplifting offense with one of our criminal defense lawyers, contact us at: (908) 322-7000.
Free Consultations Available- Franklin Township Shoplifting Lawyer
(908) 322-7000
