Charged with Shoplifting in Middletown New Jersey
If you have been accused of shoplifting in Middletown, New Jersey, it is essential that you speak to an experienced criminal defense attorneys as soon as possible about your options. Most of our clients who are charged with shoplifting in Middletown will be dealing with the criminal justice for the very first time, which inevitably leads to a very stressful situation. With that being said, at Keith Oliver Criminal Law, we feel that hiring the right criminal defense attorney, someone who specializes in criminal defense and who has a firm grasp on the specific court operates can go a long way to not only alleviating a lot of the stress but resolving the case favorably. As you will see below, the offense of shoplifting is governed by NJSA 2C:20-11b in New Jersey and depending on the underlying degree, a Defendant could be sentenced up to a decade behind bars. So, if you were arrested and charged with shoplifting in Target, Sears, Kohls, ShopRite, Bed Bath & Beyond or elsewhere in Middletown, the Keith Oliver Criminal Law can help. If you would like to set up an initial consultation with one of our Middletown shoplifting defense attorneys then please contact our Middletown Office at 732-858-6959.
Looking to Speak to Lawyer in Middletown About Shoplifting Case
At Keith Oliver Criminal Law, we are well aware of what a criminal conviction for shoplifting let alone a lengthy jail sentence can do to someone’s life. As such, we are dedicated to making sure that no stone is left unturned when it comes to defending our clients. If you would like to come into our Middletown Office for a free initial consultation then please contact us at 732.858.6959. We can sit down and go over the specifics of your case and formulate a game plan that works best for your needs. Our office is located directly across the street from the Middletown Municipal Court at 18 Kings Highway. If you have any questions whatsoever, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Where do I go to Court for a Shoplifting Charge in Middletown
As mentioned earlier, all shoplifting charges will be governed by NJSA 2C:20-11b. Pursuant to the statute, shoplifting can either be a second, third or fourth degree felony offense or a disorderly persons offense, which is New Jersey’s version of a misdemeanor. The dollar amount of the merchandise in question will be the sole factor that determines what degree of shoplifting a Defendant is charged with. Also, the degree of the offense will also dictate what court the individual will be summonsed to so that they can defend the charges. All disorderly persons offense shoplifting crimes that occur within the township will be litigated in the Middletown Municipal Court, which is located at 1 Kings Highway. Conversely, all felony level shoplifting charges that occur within the township will be transferred to the Monmouth County Superior Court, which is located at 71 Monument Street in Freehold. If you would like to speak to one of our shoplifting defense attorneys about your options then please contact us at 732.858.6959.
Is Shoplifting a Felony in NJ?
Shoplifting charges in New Jersey can either be a felony or a disorderly persons offense, which is New Jersey’s version of a misdemeanor. The dollar amount of the merchandise in question is what will dictate what degree of a shoplifting offense a Defendant is facing. Here is a helpful chart that will breakdown not only the potential penalties but the breakdown in the different degrees.
| Degree | Value of the Merchandise | Penalties |
| 2nd Degree Felony | More than $75,000 |
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| 3rd Degree Felony | More than $500 but Less than $75,000 |
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| 4th Degree Felony | More than $200 but Less than $500 |
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| Disorderly Persons Offense | Less than $200 |
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Ways to Avoid Jail for Shoplifting in Middletown NJ
With that being said, New Jersey has created several different diversionary programs that a Defendant may be able to take advantage of. Those programs include the Conditional Dismissal Program, the Pretrial Intervention Program and Drug Court. The Pretrial Intervention and the Conditional Dismissal Program’s will afford a Defendant the opportunity to be able to walk away from these charges without ever having to serve a day in jail and without a criminal record. For more information on a Defendant’s eligibility, please click the links.
Does a Shoplifting Case in Middletown Affect Immigration Status
Since shoplifting is classified as a Crime Involving Mural Turpitude (CMIT) there is a strongly likelihood that a conviction for shoplifting, even a disorderly persons level, will have a negative impact on the individual’s immigration status. Furthermore, since the conditional dismissal program requires the entry of a guilty plea prior to being enrolled, there is also a strong likelihood that even this program could affect an individual’s immigration status. If you have unfortunately found yourself in this type of situation, we strongly urge that you consult with an immigration attorney prior to resolving your case.
Need to Speak to an Attorney for Shoplifting Case in Middletown
Being charged with a crime like shoplifting can be nerve wracking and that is why we strongly recommend that you speak to an experienced Monmouth County criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your options. At Keith Oliver Criminal Law, we are well aware that no two clients let alone no two cases are the same. As such, we take a tremendous amount of pride in being able to adapt our representation in order to fulfill our clients needs. If you would like to come into our Middletown Office for a free initial consultation, then please contact us at 732.858.6959. Also, for more information on shoplifting charges in Monmouth County, please click the link.