Theft Charge in Springfield Township
The term theft charge covers a broad set of conduct that all involves some effort to obtain the money or property of another without due compensation. Whether you are facing a more common theft offense in Springfield New Jersey like shoplifting, receiving stolen property, writing a bad check, burglary or a less common violation, you face a criminal record for stealing, significant fines and even the possibility of being sent to jail/prison. These consequences obviously have the potential to negatively effect your life and future so enlisting the services of a veteran attorney is always advisable. Here at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, our lawyers have handled countless theft offenses throughout Union County, including charges arising in Springfield Township. Our team of accomplished defense attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience to guide you through the court system and effectively defend your Springfield theft case. The first consultation with a lawyer on our staff is free. Contact our our Union NJ Criminal Defense Office at 908-272-1700 to get the important legal advice you need. Help with your case is just a phone call away.
Springfield Theft Offense
Almost every theft or fraud offense is characterized by some effort to wrongfully exercise possession and derive the benefit of property of a third party. There are many varieties of theft that fall under this umbrella and can result in a Springfield theft offense. You may be charged with:
- Receiving Stolen Property
- Shoplifting
- Auto Theft
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Bad Checks
- Theft by Unlawful Taking
- Theft by Deception
- Identity Theft
- Credit Card Theft & Fraud
- Forgery
Penalties for Theft. The grading, or seriousness, of a theft offense is defined in New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2. Typically, the seriousness of the penalties for theft is connected to the value of the item stolen. Here is a breakdown:
- If the amount involved is $75,000 or more, the theft is a second-degree offense, which could mean 5 to 10 years in prison, up to $150,000 in fines, and court ordered restitution. (Restitution means that the value of what was stolen must be paid back).
- If the amount involved is between $500 and $75,000, the theft is a third-degree offense, which could mean 3 to 5 years in prison, up to $15,000 in fines, and restitution for the stolen property.
- If the amount involved is between $200 and $500, the theft is a fourth-degree offense, which could mean up to 18 months in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and restitution for the stolen property.
- If the amount involved is less than $200, the theft is a disorderly persons offense (handled in Springfield Municipal Court rather than Union County Superior Court), which could mean up to 6 months in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, and restitution for the stolen property.
Springfield Theft Defense Lawyer
While theft offenses in Springfield and the rest of New Jersey can arise in many forms, they all centered on taking something that is not yours. If you have been charged with a theft offense like burglary, issuing a bad check, theft of services or shoplifting in Springfield, you need the help of a skilled criminal attorney. The lawyers at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall can assist you in this capacity with decades of success fighting charges of this nature. They are able to carefully review the facts of your case, devise an appropriate defense strategy, negotiate effectively with the prosecutor, and reach a resolution for your case that will have the least amount of impact on your life, your job, your family, and your finances. To speak to a Springfield Criminal Lawyer on our team immediately, call 908-272-1700. Attorneys are standing by to speak with you in free initial consultation.