If you have been arrested for shoplifting in New Jersey, it is advised that you consult with a lawyer. If you have been arrested for shoplifting in Hillsborough, we may be able to assist you.
Our attorneys at Bramnick, Rodriquez, Mitterhoff, Grabas, and Woodruff, L.L.C., are skilled 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.
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.
If you are arrested for shoplifting in Hillsborough, your case will be handled in either Hillsborough Municipal court or Somerset County Superior Court depending on the value of the merchandise.
Hillsborough Municipal Court handles cases where the amount of merchandise taken totals less than $200. Hillsborough Municipal Court is located at 379 South Branch Road. The Honorable John F. Richardson presides over the Court. All other cases are handled in Somerset County Superior Court, located at 20 North Bridge Street in Somerville.
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 would like to schedule a free consultation to discuss a shoplifting offense with one of the firm's criminal defense lawyers, contact us at: (908) 322-7000.
Free Consultations Available- Hillsborough Shoplifting Lawyer
(908) 322-7000
