Facing a Shoplifting Charge in the Borough of Shrewsbury?
Have you been arrested for shoplifting in Shrewsbury? Was it at the Grove? ShopRite? Marshalls? Trader Joe’s? If so, you are not alone. The number of shoplifting arrests have been on rise in towns throughout New Jersey and Shrewsbury is no exception. If you have unfortunately found yourself in this type of situation we strongly urge that you speak to an attorney as soon as possible about your options. Shoplifting is a hybrid offense in New Jersey, in other words, depending on the facts and circumstances surrounding the charges, the individual could be facing either a disorderly persons offense (misdemeanor) or a second, third or fourth degree indictable offense (felony). That means that the potential penalties can range anywhere from a probationary sentence all the way up to a decade in prison. If you would like to set up a free initial consultation today with one of our attorneys then please do not hesitate to contact us. We can be reached 24/7 at 732.858.6959.
Do I Need to Appear in Court for a Shoplifting Charge? Can I Just Pay a Fine?
As discussed above, shoplifting is a hybrid offense. Pursuant to NJSA 2C:20-11B, which is the governing statute in New Jersey for shoplifting, the dollar amount of the merchandise in question is what will dictate what degree of a shoplifting charge an individual is charged with. Subsequently it will not only dictate what the potential penalties are but it will also dictate what court has jurisdiction over the charges as well. If the merchandise in question is less than $200 then the individual will be charged with a disorderly persons offense, which is New Jersey’s version of a misdemeanor. Anyone charged under this subsection will have their charges litigated in the Shrewsbury Municipal Court. If the merchandise in question was in excess of $200 then the individual will be charged with an indictable offense, which is New Jersey’s version of a felony. Anyone charged under this subsection will have their charges transferred to the Monmouth County Superior Court, which is located in Freehold for disposition. Also, since shoplifting is considered a crime in New Jersey, court is mandatory regardless of the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Shoplifting Charge in Shrewsbury?
Regardless of the degree, the potential penalties for a shoplifting conviction can be absolutely devastating. They include a potential lengthy prison sentence, high fines, community service, probation and a criminal record. To make matters worse, the collateral consequences can have an even longer lasting effect on your life moving forward. Being scarred with a criminal record for shoplifting can make obtaining meaningful employment extremely difficult, it could cost you your professional licenses (Nurses, Teachers, Traders) and could certainly lead to deportation as it is considered a crime of moral turpitude. Here is a quick breakdown of the potential penalties one faces if convicted.
| Degree | Value of the Merchandise | Penalties |
| Second Degree Felony | Greater than $75,000 | 5 to 10 Years in Prison |
| Third Degree Felony | Greater than $500 but less than $75,000 | 3 to 5 Years in Prison |
| Fourth Degree Felony | Greater than $200 but less than $500 | 18 Months in Prison |
| Disorderly Persons Offense | Less than $200 | 6 Months in Jail |
Need a Local Lawyer in Shrewsbury for a Shoplifting Charge
Keith Oliver Criminal Law is a Monmouth County based criminal defense firm that has dedicated their careers to defending those accused of crimes, including shoplifting. If you or a loved one has unfortunately found yourself being charged with shoplifting in the Borough of Shrewsbury, we can help. If you would like to set up a free initial consultation today, please contact our office directly at 732.858.6959. One of our attorneys would be glad to go over the specifics of your case and formulate a game plan that works best to suit your needs. Do not let a misunderstanding or a simple lapse in judgement jeopardize your future. As you can see from reading above, the potential consequences can be crippling.