Theft Charges in Linden
Have you been charged with a theft offense, such as receiving stolen property or shoplifting in Linden? The first thing you should do is get an experienced theft attorney to represent your interests. Depending on the circumstances of the incident and the value of the item that was stolen, a theft conviction can result in significant financial consequences and serious jail time. The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall employ a team of knowledgeable, experienced theft attorneys who can help you with any type of Linden criminal charge you are facing, including those involving allegations of stealing. In fact, many of defense lawyers are former prosecutors who have the benefit of learning how the justice system works from the inside. They understand what it takes to effectively combat a theft prosecution. Accordingly, it is advisable that you speak to an attorney at our firm before making any potentially prejudicial decisions in your case. Contact our firm at 908-272-1700 in order to consult with a skilled lawyer. The first consultation is free of charge.
Theft Offense in Linden New Jersey
The New Jersey Criminal Code contains numerous theft related charges that someone can be charged with in Linden New Jersey. All of these violations involve some form of allegations that the accused attempted to take money or property of another persons for their own benefit. The most common theft offenses encountered in Linden include:
- Theft of Services
- Burglary
- Receiving Stolen Property
- Shoplifting
- Theft by Unlawful Taking
- Theft by Deception
- Robbery
There are several other theft related charges, such as Auto Theft, Identity Theft and Credit Card Theft, that also arise in Linden. Irrespective of the charge you were arrested for in Linden, the seriousness of the offense is generally adjudged based on the value of the amount stolen.
Grading of Theft Offenses and Penalties
The grading of theft offenses is set forth in N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2. A shorthand list of how the seriousness of a theft offense is determined is as follows:
- Second degree crime. It is a second degree crime when the amount involved is $75,000 or more. Penalties can be 5 to 10 years in prison, up to $150,000 in fines, and restitution for the stolen property (which means you must pay back the value of the stolen property).
- Third degree crime. When the amount stolen is between $500 and $75,000, theft is a third degree crime. Penalties can be 3 to 5 years in prison, up to $15,000 in fines, and restitution for the stolen property.
- Fourth degree crime. A fourth degree crime is triggered where the amount of the theft is between $200 and $500. Penalties can be up to 18 months in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and restitution.
- Disorderly persons offense. A theft results in a disorderly persons offense when the amount involved is less than $200. Penalties can be up to 6 months in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, and restitution.
Linden Theft Defense Attorney
As you can see, depending upon the circumstances, theft offenses can lead to substantial prison time and financial penalties, in addition to an obligation to pay back the stolen property, or its monetary equivalent. If you have been arrested on a theft offense, contact a defense attorney at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall today. One of our lawyers will thoroughly review the facts and law surrounding your case and formulate a plan for successfully defending the charge. Attorneys are available 24/7 to assist you immediately at 908-272-1700. Call today for a free consultation with a lawyer who can provide the legal representation you need.
