Put Your Case In The Hands Of Experienced Passaic County Shoplifting Lawyers
From the Willowbrook mall to major retail chains to small downtown shops, Passaic County is home to many stores. You could face an array of serious consequences if you are accused of shoplifting at any of them. In the face of such difficult circumstances, you want an experienced New Jersey legal team you can count on to relentlessly defend you. Turn to our skilled Passaic County shoplifting defense lawyers at Sutnick & Sutnick Attorneys at Law.
With offices in North Haledon and Hackensack, as well as the Bronx in New York, we defend individuals who are facing shoplifting allegations and other theft charges in Passaic County and beyond. Led by two former prosecutors, we are a team of honest, hardworking and aggressive advocates focused on providing powerful defense representation to clients.
We are ready to help you fight shoplifting charges in all Passaic County cities and towns, including Paterson, Wayne, Passaic and Clifton. Connect with our team today for a free consultation.
Here To Defend You Against All Types Of Shoplifting Allegations
The term shoplifting covers a range of theft-focused conduct against retail establishments, including intentionally:
- Taking items without paying
- Concealing merchandise to try to steal it
- Altering price tags to reflect a lower price
- Transferring items out of their packaging into a different container
- Under-ringing items at a checkout
If you’re accused of any type of shoplifting in Passaic County, our skilled defenders are here for you.
What Type Of Charge Is Shoplifting?
Under New Jersey law, the charge level for shoplifting depends on the full retail value of the allegedly stolen property:
- Under $200: Misdemeanor (disorderly persons offense)
- $200 to $500: Fourth-degree felony (indictable offense)
- Over $500 to $75,000: Third-degree felony
- Over $75,000: Second-degree felony
Misdemeanor shoplifting cases are generally heard in municipal court, while felony cases go before the Passaic County Superior Court. Our attorneys can guide you through the court process specific to your case.
Can You Go To Jail For Shoplifting In Passaic County?
Yes, jail time is possible for shoplifting offenses. How much time depends on the charge type. The general ranges are:
- Misdemeanor: Up to 6 months
- Fourth-degree felony: Up to 18 months
- Third-degree felony: 3 to 5 years
- Second-degree felony: 5 to 10 years
If you have two or more prior shoplifting offenses, you generally face a minimum of 90 days imprisonment in the event of conviction. We can advise you on all options you have for safeguarding your freedom and seeking to avoid jail time.
What Could A Passaic County Shoplifting Charge Do To Your Finances?
Your shoplifting case could have significant financial impacts. You could face fines reaching up to:
- $1,000 for a misdemeanor
- $10,000 for a fourth-degree felony
- $15,000 for a third-degree felony
- $150,000 for a second-degree felony
Additionally, the store in question could bring a civil restitution claim against you. We can take steps toward protecting your financial future in the face of Passaic County shoplifting charges.
Understanding The Community Service Requirement
In addition to other penalties, New Jersey law requires community service as part of shoplifting sentences. The amount to be given is:
- At least 10 days if you have no prior shoplifting offenses
- At least 15 days if you have one prior offense
- Up to 25 days if you have two or more prior offenses
Our Passaic County shoplifting lawyers can answer any questions you have regarding this requirement.
Protecting Your Record And Your Future
A shoplifting conviction would put a mark your criminal record. This could profoundly impact your educational and professional opportunities and your reputation. So, your ability to stay on the path to the future you desire may well depend on what happens in your case. Our Passaic County shoplifting attorneys understand this and are here to give you the dedicated advocacy you need.
What Defense Options Could Be Available?
Common defenses against shoplifting charges include challenging evidence, questioning witness reliability and demonstrating lack of intent. Our team can carefully review all the details of your Passaic County shoplifting case to provide you with personalized guidance on your criminal defense options.
Contact Us Now For Your Free Consultation
Don’t leave your future to chance when facing Passaic County shoplifting charges. Let us stand up for you. Get a free consultation with us by calling 201-212-4532 or reaching out online.