Theft
If you are convicted of theft, your life will never be the same. You could be sentenced to years in prison and be required to pay tens of thousands of dollars in fines. Even if your charge is minor, you will have a permanent criminal record. Don’t let this happen to you.
At the Law Offices of Thomas Carroll Blauvelt, LLC, I fight criminal charges. It’s all I do, and I have gotten excellent results.
Theft Crimes In New Jersey
In New Jersey, theft charges are classified into different categories depending on the value of the allegedly stolen property and the type of property or crime involved:
- Property valued less than $200 is a disorderly persons offense. It is punishable by up to six months in prison and fines up to $1,000.
- Property valued between $200 and $500 is theft in the fourth degree. Punishment includes up to 18 months in prison and fines up to $10,000.
- Property valued more than $500 but less than $75,000, or if the stolen property is a firearm, car or controlled substance, or if it was taken by robbery or by a fiduciary, is theft in the third degree. It is punishable by three to five years in prison and fines up to $15,000. Credit card theft is often charged as theft in the third degree.
- Property valued at more than $75,000, or property taken by extortion, is theft in the second degree, punishable by five to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000.
Many people view shoplifting as a minor charge. This is not true. Depending on the value of the property stolen, you could be facing theft in the second degree — a serious charge with serious penalties. The punishments are the same as other theft crimes, such as burglary or theft by deception.
A Charge Is Not A Conviction
Before becoming a defense attorney, I was a prosecutor. My experience working for the other side has given me great insight into the criminal justice system. I know what the government has to prove to secure a conviction, and I know how to present evidence and arguments that undermine the case.
Pick Up The Phone — Your Future Depends On It
Don’t hire just any lawyer; hire one with the experience and record to make a difference in your case. Contact my office today for a free consultation. You can reach me seven days a week at 877-676-7729.