Shoplifting Lawyer in Bound Brook, NJ
How Does the State of New Jersey Define Shoplifting?
Frequently, issues arise as to why a person was charged with a 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.
How Serious of a Crime Is Shoplifting in Bound Brook, New Jersey?
Shoplifting is a serious offense in the State of New Jersey, where the severity of the offense is based on the value of stolen merchandise as listed below:
- Disorderly Persons: under $200
- 4th Degree : $200- $500
- 3rd Degree: $500-$75,000
- 2nd Degree: $75,000 and above
What Should I Do If I Am Arrested for Shoplifting in Bound Brook, New Jersey?
If you are arrested for shoplifting, it is advised that you consult with a lawyer. If you have been arrested for shoplifting in Bound Brook, we may be able to assist you. Our attorneys at Bramnick, Rodriguez, Grabas, Arnold & Mangan, LLC, 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.
What Are the Penalties for Shoplifting in Bound Brook, NJ?
Prosecutors are required by the state of New Jersey to prosecute all shoplifting cases, even if the defendant is not represented by counsel.
Penalties for shoplifting are determined by the degree of offense, where 2nd Degree offenses are prosecuted more seriously than 3rd degree offenses and so forth. Punishments may include fines and/or temporary imprisonment, where first time offenses are prosecuted less harshly than subsequent offenses. While individual prosecution of a shoplifting offense is determined on a case by case basis and by the respective prosecutor.
Where Will I Be Tried If I’m Arrested for Shoplifting in Bound Brook?
If you are arrested for shoplifting in Bound Brook, your case will be handled in either Bound Brook Municipal court or Somerset County Superior Court depending on the value of the merchandise. Bound Brook Municipal Court handles cases where the amount of merchandise taken totals less than $200. Bound Brook Municipal Court is located at 230 Hamilton Street. The Honorable E. Ronald Wright presides 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.
Schedule a Free Consultation with an Experienced Bound Brook Shoplifting Attorney Today!
If you would like to schedule a free consultation to discuss a shoplifting offense with one of our criminal defense attorneys, contact us at: (908) 322-7000.
Free Consultations Available – Bound Brook Shoplifting Attorney
(908) 322-7000
