Charged With Theft or a Property Crime in New Jersey? We’ll Defend Your Name and Your Record.
Being accused of theft, shoplifting, burglary, or any other property-related offense in New Jersey can have serious consequences. Even a “minor” charge can result in a criminal record, jail time, job loss, and long-term damage to your reputation. These charges often follow people for years, affecting employment, housing, and future opportunities.
Cherry Law Firm defends individuals across New Jersey who are facing theft and property crime allegations. Whether you’ve been charged with shoplifting from a retail store or accused of burglary, we know how to build a strong defense, fight for dismissals, and protect first-time offenders from lasting harm.
If this is your first offense, we’ll do everything possible to keep your record clean—and your life on track.
Common Theft and Property Crime Charges in New Jersey
New Jersey law covers a broad range of offenses related to theft, damage to property, and unlawful possession. Common charges we handle include:
- Theft by unlawful taking (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3)
- Shoplifting (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-11)
- Burglary – unlawfully entering a building with intent to commit a crime
- Theft of services – such as skipping payment for a ride or service
- Receiving stolen property
- Criminal mischief – damaging another’s property
- Identity theft or credit card fraud
- Theft from an employer (employee theft)
Whether you’re facing misdemeanor-level charges (disorderly persons offenses) or serious felonies (indictable offenses), we build your defense with one goal in mind: protecting your future.
Theft Penalties Under New Jersey Law
New Jersey classifies theft charges by the value of the property allegedly stolen or damaged:
- Less than $200 – Disorderly persons offense (up to 6 months in jail)
- $200 to $500 – Fourth-degree crime (up to 18 months in prison)
- $500 to $75,000 – Third-degree crime (3–5 years in prison)
- More than $75,000 – Second-degree crime (5–10 years in prison)
Shoplifting charges follow a similar scale but may also include mandatory community service, loss prevention classes, and civil penalties from the store. Repeat offenders face harsher sentences—even if the item stolen was of low value.
Local Representation Across New Jersey
Cherry Law Firm defends clients charged with theft and property crimes across the entire state of New Jersey. We represent clients in:
- Essex County – Newark, Orange, Bloomfield
- Hudson County – Jersey City, North Bergen, Bayonne
- Union County – Elizabeth, Linden, Union
- Middlesex County – Edison, Woodbridge, Perth Amboy
- Monmouth & Ocean Counties – Freehold, Toms River, Long Branch
- Atlantic County – Atlantic City, Egg Harbor, Galloway
We understand how each local court system operates—and we build our defense around those nuances to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
Why Choose Cherry Law for Theft & Property Crime Defense?
We Fight for First-Time Offenders
If you’ve never been in trouble before, we push for dismissals, downgraded charges, or diversion programs that keep your record clean. We understand what it’s like to be scared, confused, and unsure—and we’re here to guide you through it with confidence.
We Scrutinize the Evidence
From surveillance footage to witness statements, theft cases often rely on shaky or incomplete evidence. We review every angle to challenge the prosecution’s case and ensure your rights weren’t violated during arrest or questioning.
We Keep It Quiet
For professionals, students, or parents, public accusations can be as damaging as a conviction. We handle cases with discretion and work quickly to resolve matters with the least public exposure possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a theft charge be expunged in New Jersey?
Yes, in many cases. If your charge is dismissed or you complete a diversion program like Conditional Dismissal or Pretrial Intervention (PTI), you may be eligible for expungement. We can guide you through that process once your case is resolved.
Do I need a lawyer for shoplifting?
Absolutely. Even for low-value items, shoplifting is a criminal offense in New Jersey. A conviction can impact future job opportunities, professional licenses, and even immigration status. Having a lawyer can protect your record and reduce the long-term impact.
What if it was a misunderstanding or accident?
It happens more often than people think. Accidental theft, confusion at self-checkout, or false accusations from store employees can all result in criminal charges. We work to clarify what really happened and build a defense around your intent—or lack of it.
Charged With Theft or Property Crime? Call Cherry Law Firm Now.
A theft charge can damage your future—but it doesn’t have to. Whether you’re facing a shoplifting allegation, criminal mischief accusation, or any other property crime, Cherry Law Firm is ready to step in and fight for you.
Call today to speak with an experienced New Jersey theft and property crime defense attorney.