Bergen County
Theft Crime
Lawyer
Bergen County Theft Crime Attorney
If you are facing theft-related charges in Bergen County, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming. New Jersey has strict laws regarding theft, and penalties can range from fines to significant prison time. An experienced Bergen County theft crime lawyer can provide the legal defense you need to protect your rights and fight the charges against you.
Whether you are dealing with shoplifting, robbery, or another type of theft offense, the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, can evaluate your case and work with you to develop an effective criminal defense strategy.
Types of Theft Crimes in New Jersey
Theft crimes encompass a wide range of offenses, each carrying its own set of penalties that depend on the severity of the crime. In New Jersey, common theft crimes include:
- Theft by Unlawful Taking: This occurs when someone unlawfully takes—or exercises control over—another person's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
- Theft by Deception: This crime involves obtaining property by deceiving another person.
- Shoplifting: In New Jersey, shoplifting includes stealing merchandise and actions like altering price tags or transferring merchandise from one container to another.
- Robbery: Robbery is the use of force, violence, or intimidation to take someone’s property. It is considered a violent crime and carries harsher penalties than non-violent theft offenses.
No matter the specific charge, working with a lawyer who understands New Jersey theft laws is essential for building a strong defense.
Penalties for Theft Crimes in Bergen County
The severity of the penalties for theft crimes in New Jersey depends on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances surrounding the crime. In general, theft crimes in New Jersey are graded as either disorderly persons offenses or indictable crimes—which are more serious.
- Disorderly Persons Offenses: For thefts involving property worth less than $200, the charge is typically a disorderly persons offense. These offenses carry penalties of time in jail and a fine.
- Fourth-Degree Theft: If the value of the stolen property is between $200 and $500, the crime is classified as a fourth-degree offense. Convictions can result in time in prison and fines.
- Third-Degree Theft: Theft of property worth between $500 and $75,000 is a third-degree crime. A conviction can lead to years in prison and fines.
- Second-Degree Theft: For property valued at more than $75,000, the charge is a second-degree crime, which can result in years in prison and large fines.
Because the consequences of a conviction can have a lasting impact, it is important to reach out to the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC. Let us protect your rights throughout the legal process.
Common Defenses Against Theft Charges
If you are charged with a theft crime in Bergen County, there are several possible defenses that a theft crime lawyer may use to challenge the prosecution’s case. These defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: In many theft cases, the prosecution must prove that you intended to permanently deprive the victim of their property. If your attorney can show that you did not have the requisite intent, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
- Mistaken Identity: Theft crimes often occur in chaotic—or unclear—circumstances, and mistaken identity is a common defense. If your lawyer can present evidence that someone else committed the crime, it may be possible to clear your name.
- Consent: If the alleged victim gave you permission to take—or use—the property, then the act does not qualify as theft. Your defense attorney can argue that the property was taken with the owner's consent, which can lead to the dismissal of the charges.
- Lack of Evidence: If the prosecution’s case lacks strong evidence linking you to the crime, your lawyer may challenge the validity of the charges and seek their reduction or dismissal.
FAQs About Bergen County, NJ Theft Crime Laws
What Is an Example of Theft by Deception in NJ?
Deception theft is, by nature, a crime of deceit. An example of theft by deception in New Jersey might include:
- A person who sells a car they do not own (by presenting forged ownership documents)
- An individual who convinces someone to transfer money to them by lying about the purpose of the transaction
What Is the Penalty for Theft by Unlawful Taking in New Jersey?
The penalty for theft by unlawful taking in New Jersey depends on the value of the property stolen. Theft involving property worth less than $200 is a disorderly persons offense, punishable by a term in jail and fines. For higher-value thefts, penalties can range from months to years in prison with a range of fines, depending on the property’s value.
What Is the Penalty for Theft by Deception in New Jersey?
The penalty for theft by deception is graded similarly to other theft offenses in New Jersey. If the value of the property involved is less than $200, the charge is a disorderly persons offense, punishable by a period in jail and a fine. If the value exceeds $200, the charge is an indictable crime, with penalties ranging from months to years in prison, depending on the value of the property.
What Is the Grading of Theft in NJ?
Theft in New Jersey is graded based on the value of the stolen property. Theft of property worth less than $200 is a disorderly persons offense, whereas theft of property valued over that amount is an indictable (felony) offense. Within “indictable offenses,” there are several degrees, depending on the value of the theft.
Contact a Bergen County Theft Crime Lawyer
If you have been charged with theft in Bergen County, contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical.
The Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC, can evaluate the evidence against you, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and work with you to develop a defense strategy that addresses your specific circumstances.
Whether you are facing charges of shoplifting, theft by unlawful taking, or robbery, we can protect your rights and minimize the impact of the charges on your future. Contact us today. After an initial consultation, we can begin building your defense.
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If you have been charged with burglary, larceny, or robbery, do not delay. Call the Law Offices of Robert Tsigler, PLLC at 718-878-3781 for a consultation.
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