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How Theft Crimes Can Impact Your Life in New Jersey
Getting caught stealing can really turn your life upside down. Even a minor shoplifting charge can haunt you for years in New Jersey. Let’s talk about how theft crimes can impact your life here, and what defenses you might have.
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Theft Charges in New Jersey
New Jersey takes theft crimes pretty seriously. The state divides theft into different degrees based on the value of what was stolen. Shoplifting small items is usually a disorderly persons offense. But stealing larger amounts, or certain property like cars or guns, can be much more serious. You may face fines, probation, and even years in prison.
The main theft crimes in NJ are shoplifting, theft by deception, burglary, robbery, car theft, receiving stolen property, and computer theft. There’s also “theft of services,” which is getting services without paying for them. Each type of theft has specific laws about punishment.
For example, shoplifting less than $200 of merchandise is usually a petty disorderly persons offense. But shoplifting more than $500 of goods might be third or second degree theft, punishable by 3-10 years in prison. See how the impact gets worse as the crime gets more serious?
Long-Term Impacts of a Theft Conviction
Even a minor theft conviction can follow you for life and really mess things up. Let’s look at some of the ways it can impact your future.
1. Criminal Record
A theft conviction goes on your permanent criminal record. It will show up on background checks when you apply to college, for jobs, housing, loans, and more. Employers often won’t hire someone with a recent theft conviction. Landlords may refuse to rent to you. It can be very hard to move on with that black mark on your record.
2. Difficulty Finding Work
As mentioned, employers don’t like to hire someone with a theft conviction. Many won’t even consider your application. And for jobs that require bonding or security clearance, a record of theft or dishonesty can disqualify you. This can really limit your career options and earning potential.
3. Loss of Licenses
Certain professional licenses can be revoked if you’re convicted of theft. For example, security guards, accountants, nurses, real estate agents, and contractors all need state licenses. A theft conviction might mean losing your license and career.
4. Immigration Issues
For non-citizens, a theft conviction can be absolutely devastating. Shoplifting a $3 item can make you deportable and ban you from ever becoming a U.S. citizen. Talk about a life-changer.
5. Probation & Fines
Most theft convictions lead to fines and probation. You’ll have monthly meetings with a probation officer, drug tests, restrictions on travel, and fees to pay. Fines for theft can easily reach thousands of dollars. And if you violate probation, you face new charges and possible jail time.
6. Jail Time
Felony theft convictions often involve mandatory minimum jail sentences. You may have to spend months or years behind bars. Any amount of time in jail can disrupt your life and leave lasting trauma.
7. Difficulty Traveling
Some countries don’t allow people with criminal records to enter, especially theft convictions. Canada can ban you for shoplifting. You may lose your passport if convicted of a theft felony. Forget about taking that European vacation you’ve been dreaming about.
8. Loss of Voting Rights
Many states suspend voting rights for people convicted of felonies, including theft. In New Jersey, you lose the right to vote while incarcerated or on parole or probation. A theft conviction strips away your ability to participate in democracy.
9. Difficulty Finding Housing
Landlords often conduct background checks and may refuse to rent to anyone with a theft conviction. You could have a very hard time finding an apartment, never mind buying a house. Lack of stable housing can disrupt every other area of your life.
10. Higher Insurance Rates
Some insurance companies raise your rates if you have a theft conviction. It can affect home, auto, and life insurance costs. That’s an extra financial burden that lasts for years.
As you can see, even minor theft charges shouldn’t be taken lightly. The impact on your future can be severe. Of course, the law provides some defenses that a skilled lawyer may use to help dismiss or reduce the charges.
Possible Defenses to Theft Charges
If you’re facing theft charges in New Jersey, don’t panic. There are often defenses an experienced criminal lawyer can raise on your behalf. Some possible defenses to theft include:
- You lacked criminal intent – For a theft conviction, prosecutors must prove you intended to deprive the owner of their property. If you took something by mistake or absent-mindedly, you may not have criminal intent.
- The property’s value is exaggerated – The degree of theft often depends on the value of items stolen. If prosecutors exaggerate the value, the charges may be reduced.
- Someone else committed the theft – Mistaken identity is a common defense. If someone else took the items, you should not be convicted.
- You had permission to take the property – It’s not theft if the owner consents to you having the property, even temporarily.
- You had a claim of right – If you sincerely believed the property was yours, you may not have criminal intent. This is called a “claim of right” defense.
- The taking was too trivial – Taking items of little value may qualify as a de minimis infraction, not a crime.
- You were falsely accused – Sometimes theft allegations are false or exaggerated, often in disputes between family, friends or businesses.
- Unlawful search and seizure – If evidence was obtained illegally, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress it. This could weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Violation of due process – Constitutional rights violations could lead to dismissal of charges. An experienced lawyer will watch for issues like this.
Don’t try to handle theft charges yourself. Hire a skilled New Jersey criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights. A good attorney can often negotiate reduced charges or get charges dismissed. This can help mitigate the devastating impacts a theft conviction can have on your life.
With the right legal strategy, you may be able to put the mistake behind you and move on. The alternative could haunt you for decades. If you or a loved one is facing theft allegations in New Jersey, get experienced legal help right away.