Charged with Shoplifting in Eatontown NJ
By far one of the more common charges filed in Eatontown, New Jersey is shoplifting. Shoplifting is one of those hybrid offenses, meaning it can either be considered a disorderly persons offense, which is our version of a misdemeanor or an indictable offense, which is our version of a felony. To make matters worse, since shoplifting is considered a crime of moral turpitude, a conviction could lead to serious immigration consequences, including deportation. Regardless of whether you have been accused of shoplifting at Monmouth Mall, at stores like Macy’s, Claire’s, Sephora, JCPenny, Lord&Taylor or elsewhere like Best Buy, Nordstrom Rack or Lowe’s, we strongly urge that you speak to an attorney as soon as possible. As you will see below, depending on the degree of the charges, an individual convicted of shoplifting could be facing up to a decade behind bars.
Need Lawyer for Shoplifting Charge at Monmouth Mall
Keith Oliver Criminal Law has been representing those accused of shoplifting from stores throughout Eatontown for almost a decade now. We are well aware that for most, this is will be their first time every dealing with the criminal justice system. As such, we are dedicated to taking a very hands on approach when it comes to our representation. If you would like to set up a free initial consultation today, then please contact our Middletown office at 732.858.6959. One of our attorneys would be glad to sit down with you, go over the specifics of your case and formulate a game plan that works best to suit your needs. Do not let a split second lapse in judgement or even a misunderstanding jeopardize your future. A criminal conviction for shoplifting will almost certainly impact your life moving forward. As always, our initial consultations are free of costs, so if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Do I have to go to Court for a Shoplifting Charge in Eatontown?
Yes, court is mandatory when it comes to shoplifting offenses in New Jersey. As touched upon above, shoplifting is either considered a misdemeanor or felony. The dollar amount of the merchandise in question is what will dictate what degree an individual is charged with. It will also help dictate what court will have jurisdiction over the charges as well.
Facing Felony Shoplifting Charge in Eatontown NJ
In order to be charged with a felony shoplifting offense the prosecution must be alleging that the individual took merchandise in excess of $200. If that is the case, the charges will be transferred from the Eatontown Municipal Court to the Monmouth County Superior Court, which is located in Freehold for disposition. Anyone charged will a felony shoplifting offense will first be scheduled for Central Judicial Processing (CJP). After this initial appearance, the case will be given a Pre-Indictment Conference (PIC) date. During this date, the prosecution and defense will either seek to workout a plea deal, which may include a downgrading/remanding of the charges back to the Eatontown Municipal Court or if no deal can be reached, the case will be marked for Grand Jury.
Need Attorney for Disorderly Persons Shoplifting Offense in Eatontown NJ
If the individual is charged with a disorderly persons shoplifting offense that means that the merchandise in question was less than $200. If that is the case, the charges will be sent directly to the Eatontown Municipal Court for disposition. If convicted of this offense, the individual is facing up to six months in the Monmouth County Jail, a fine not to exceed $1,000 and not less than fifteen days of community service. Furthermore, an individual convicted of this offense will not be eligible for an expungement for at least three years.
Shoplifting Attorney in Eatontown NJ
Keith Oliver Criminal Law is a Monmouth County based criminal defense firm, that is comprised of attorneys that have dedicated their careers to defending those accused of crimes like shoplifting. If you would like to set up a free initial consultation today, then please call our office at 732.858.6959 or you can try contacting us online. These are very serious charges and if not handled properly they could have a significant impact your life for a long time. Please do not underestimate the severity of these types of charges.