Criminal Defense Lawyers

Hunterdon County Shoplifting Lawyer

Hunterdon County Shoplifting Lawyer – Defending Your Rights Against Shoplifting Charges

Shoplifting charges in Hunterdon County, New Jersey can carry serious legal consequences that can impact your life for years to come. Even a seemingly minor shoplifting incident can result in fines, probation, and possibly jail time if you are convicted. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced Hunterdon County shoplifting lawyer on your side to protect your rights and future.

In this article, we’ll provide an overview of common shoplifting charges in Hunterdon County, potential defenses, and how a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can help mitigate the penalties if you are facing prosecution.

Understanding Shoplifting Charges in Hunterdon County

Shoplifting generally refers to the act of knowingly taking merchandise from a store without paying for it. Under New Jersey law, shoplifting charges can range from a disorderly persons offense for minor thefts up to a second degree felony for high value thefts exceeding $75,000.Some of the most common shoplifting scenarios that can lead to criminal charges in Hunterdon County include:

• Concealing store merchandise on your person or in a bag, purse, or stroller with intent to leave without paying
• Switching price tags on items to pay less than the actual price
• Seeking to return stolen merchandise for a refund or store credit
• Pushing a shopping cart filled with unpaid items out of the store
• Working with others to steal large quantities of merchandise (organized retail theft)

The severity of the criminal shoplifting charge depends on the full retail value of the items taken. This value determines whether it is a disorderly persons offense, fourth degree crime, third degree crime, or second degree crime.

Penalties for a Hunterdon County Shoplifting Conviction

A shoplifting conviction can carry significant penalties under New Jersey law. Possible criminal penalties include:

• Disorderly Persons (under $200 theft) – Up to 6 months in jail, $1,000 fine
• 4th Degree Shoplifting ($200 to $500 theft) – Up to 18 months in jail, $10,000 fine
• 3rd Degree Shoplifting ($500 to $75,000 theft) – 3 to 5 years in prison, $15,000 fine
• 2nd Degree Shoplifting (over $75,000 theft) – 5 to 10 years in prison, $150,000 fine

In addition to fines and possible incarceration, a permanent criminal record can negatively impact your education, employment, professional licensing, and immigration status for years to come.

Juvenile Shoplifting Consequences

For offenders under age 18, shoplifting charges are handled through the juvenile justice system. The focus is more on rehabilitation than punishment. However, penalties can still include counseling programs, community service, probation, or detention. Juvenile records are usually sealed when the offender reaches adulthood.

Civil Liability for Shoplifting

On top of criminal prosecution, New Jersey law allows retailers to pursue civil monetary damages against shoplifters. This civil penalty can range from $150 to $500 plus the full retail value of stolen or damaged merchandise. Having an attorney defend against unwarranted civil penalties is important.

Possible Defenses Against Shoplifting Charges

While shoplifting charges should always be taken seriously, there may be defenses an experienced lawyer can use to get charges reduced or even dismissed. Some examples include:

• Lack of intent – If it was an honest mistake or there was no proof of intent to steal.
• Misidentification – You were wrongfully accused but were not actually the shoplifter.
• Duress – You were forced or coerced by another party to commit the act.
• Consent – You had permission from the store owner or staff to take the item.
• Unlawful search – Evidence was obtained through an improper search violating your rights.
• Procedural errors – Mistakes made in your arrest, Miranda rights, or prosecution violate due process.

An accomplished Hunterdon County shoplifting attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case to determine if any viable defenses can be used to have charges dismissed or reduced to a more favorable outcome.

The Benefits of Having a Shoplifting Lawyer

Trying to navigate the New Jersey criminal justice system without legal guidance can put you at a major disadvantage. An experienced shoplifting lawyer brings important benefits to the table, including:

• Knowledge of relevant laws and previous cases – This allows them to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case against you.
• Negotiation skills – Your attorney can negotiate with the prosecution for reduced charges or diversion programs in lieu of a trial.
• Trial experience – If necessary, your lawyer has the litigation experience to mount an aggressive defense in court.
• Sentencing advocacy – They will advocate for the lightest penalties possible if you are convicted.
• Avoiding self-incrimination – Your lawyer handles communication so you don’t accidentally make statements harmful to your case.
• Objectivity – They provide objective guidance to help you make informed decisions in your own best interests.

By hiring an attorney as early as possible after being charged, you put yourself in the best position to mitigate penalties and protect your future.

How a Hunterdon County Shoplifting Lawyer Can Defend Your Rights

The skilled criminal defense attorneys at The Marshall Law Firm have extensive experience representing clients facing shoplifting charges throughout Hunterdon County and surrounding areas. Our firm provides customized defense strategies that fit the unique circumstances of each shoplifting case.

Here are some of the ways our lawyers defend clients against shoplifting charges:

• We thoroughly analyze the prosecution’s evidence and identify any legal grounds to get charges dismissed.
• We negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges to lesser offenses whenever possible.
• We build compelling defenses such as lack of intent, misidentification, or unlawful search arguments.
• We represent clients in court hearings and aggressively litigate shoplifting cases through trial.
• We advocate for alternative resolutions such as diversion programs instead of criminal penalties.
• If convicted, we fight for the lightest sentence allowed by law for the charges.
• For juveniles, we advocate for rehabilitation plans focused on counseling and community service rather than detention.
• We defend against unwarranted civil lawsuits and monetary demands made by retailers.

Our firm provides compassionate yet aggressive legal representation for clients facing shoplifting charges. We understand the devastating consequences a conviction can have on your life. That’s why we work tirelessly to achieve the most favorable resolution possible.

Don’t Face Shoplifting Charges Without an Attorney

Being arrested and charged with shoplifting in Hunterdon County is a serious matter that should not be taken lightly. The criminal penalties and lifelong impact of a conviction are too severe to ignore.

The experienced shoplifting defense lawyers at The Marshall Law Firm are here to protect your rights at this critical time. We will thoroughly investigate your case, build defenses against the charges, and negotiate strongly on your behalf.

To schedule a free and confidential case evaluation, call our office today at (908) 555-1234. Our team is standing by 24/7 to provide the strong legal defense you deserve.