The law in New Jersey includes a second degree pedigree of shoplifting. This charge is encountered infrequently although it does arise on occasion. It is imperative that an experienced shoplifting defense lawyer be enlisted if you have been charged with a second degree offense of shoplifting as there is a presumption of incarceration if you are convicted of this charge. The attorneys at our firm, the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, possess the skill to overcome this presumption in the majority of cases and are available to assist you immediately. Give us a call 24/7 at 855-450-8310.
NJ Second Degree Shoplifting Law
N.J.S.A. 2C:20-11 provides that shoplifting is of the second degree where the items stolen have a value of $75,000 or more, or where the offense is committed in conjunction with an organized retail theft enterprise and involves merchandise valued at $1,000 or more. Those charged under this provision are exposed to a term of imprisonment of between five (5) and ten (10) years. It should also be noted that Attorney General directive precludes downgrading of a second degree shoplifting to a disorderly persons shoplifting. The typical downgrade is therefore to third degree shoplifting. Notwithstanding these provisions, our lawyers have demonstrated significant success in avoiding jail altogether in shoplifting cases to the point that incarceration has been virtually non-existent in cases we have handled.
If you or a loved one has been arrested for shoplifting of the second degree, an attorney from our defense office would be happy to provide assistance. We represent individuals charged with shoplifting statewide and our attorneys are available immediately to discuss your Monmouth County, Union County, Middlesex County, Essex County, Hudson County, Somerset County, or Bergen County case. We can be reached 24/7 at 855-450-8310.
