In Woodbridge Township, an arrest for theft has serious consequences. It not only has the potential to result in incarceration and heavy fines, but also because it demonstrates that there is some level of dishonesty in you. The simple fact of the matter is that employers and institutions of higher learning don’t want to deal with convicted thieves. Therefore, if you or someone you love has been charged with any form of theft offense in Woodbridge, you need to obtain a qualified defense attorney. Here at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, our Woodbridge Office can offer you a team of skilled lawyers, several of which are former prosecutors, that make up one of the largest criminal firms in the state. Our attorneys are ready to put all of their resources, including 100 years of combined experience, to work for you now. Call us for a free consultation at 732-634-0700.
Charged With A Theft Offense in Woodbridge Township
The NJ Criminal Code contains a category of criminal offenses known as theft crimes. The most common of these violations is theft of movable property under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3. Someone commits this offense if he/she “unlawfully takes, or exercises unlawful control over, movable property of another with purpose to deprive him thereof.” All other theft charges in this category essentially represent variations on this basic charge including:
- Shoplifting
- Theft by Deception
- Theft of Services
- Receiving Stolen Property
- Identity Theft
- Credit Theft & Fraud
- Bad Checks
For the most part, the severity or grading of one of these offenses hinges on the value of the goods, money or other items stolen. A disorderly persons offense occurs where the value of the property taken is less than $200. A fourth degree crime, the lowest grade of indictable felony crime, occurs when the value is between $200 and $500. This grade of theft can lead to incarceration for up to 18 months and a $10,000 fine. A third degree offense occurs where the value involved in the theft is between $500 and $75,000. A third degree theft offense carries maximum penalties that include 5 years in prison and a $15,000 fine. A second degree crime occurs where the value is over $75,000. This is the most serious grade of theft and can result in your being sent to prison for 10 years and fined as much as $150,000.
Theft Charge Lawyer in Woodbridge
A conviction for theft can certainly impact your ability to obtain future employment, secure a professional license, or obtain a loan. Since most theft charges involve crimes of moral turpitude under the Federal Immigration Code, a finding of guilt can also affect your visa, green card, and immigration status. You could face non-renewal or even deportation because of a theft conviction. For all of these reasons, not to mention the penalties that apply at sentencing, you need to do your best to avoid a conviction. At the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, we have over 100 years of collective experience defending against theft charges in Woodbridge Township and at the Middlesex County Superior Court. We have the skills you need whether you are facing a disorderly person offense in Woodbridge Municipal Court or a complex second degree case in New Brunswick at the Superior Court. Please do not hesitate to contact our office today for a free consultation with an experienced attorney.
