Let a New Jersey Shoplifting Lawyer Explore All Your Defense Options
In New Jersey, shoplifting is the offense of intentionally taking merchandise from a store without paying for it. This crime involves more than just walking out with unpaid items—it can also include concealing goods, switching price tags, swapping higher-priced items for lower-priced ones, or failing to scan merchandise at self-checkout. Employees who intentionally “under ring” sales or help others avoid paying the full value can also face shoplifting charges. If you’ve been arrested, you need an experienced legal advocate on your side. Speak with a trusted New Jersey shoplifting lawyer at Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A. to protect your record and future opportunities.
What is the Crime of Shoplifting in New Jersey?
Like other criminal offenses in New Jersey, shoplifting covers several types of unlawful acts under state law. The New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, Section 2C:20-11, outlines a broad range of conduct that qualifies as shoplifting, including:
- Taking, carrying away, or transferring merchandise with the intent to deprive the store of its retail value
- Concealing merchandise while in a store with intent to avoid paying for it
- Altering or removing price tags or barcodes to pay less than full price
- Moving products from one container to another to disguise their value
- “Under-ringing” merchandise, whether by a cashier or customer, to deprive the retailer of payment
It’s important to know that the law does not require you to physically leave the store to be charged with shoplifting—simply concealing or altering an item with intent to steal can be enough for prosecution. The store, through surveillance or witnesses, may present evidence that creates a presumption of guilt unless it’s successfully challenged in court.
What are the Penalties for Shoplifting in New Jersey?
Shoplifting penalties vary depending on the value of the merchandise and the circumstances of the incident. Charges can range from a minor disorderly persons offense to a serious indictable crime. The penalties are as follows:
- Disorderly persons offense (under $200): Up to $1,000 fine and six months in jail
- Fourth-degree crime ($200–$500): Up to $10,000 fine and 18 months in prison
- Third-degree crime ($500–$75,000): Up to $15,000 fine and three to five years in prison
- Second-degree crime ($75,000 or more): Up to $150,000 fine and five to 10 years in prison
Most shoplifting cases are handled in municipal court as disorderly persons offenses. However, even a minor conviction can have long-term effects, including a permanent criminal record that can impact future employment or professional licensing. Because concealing merchandise automatically creates a presumption of intent to steal, mounting a defense early is essential. Working with a seasoned New Jersey shoplifting lawyer can help protect your reputation and possibly prevent conviction altogether.
Common Defenses to Shoplifting Charges
A skilled defense attorney will review every aspect of your arrest, from how the evidence was collected to whether your rights were violated. Common defenses may include mistaken identity, lack of intent, unlawful search, or procedural errors by law enforcement. For example, if store security detained you without proper cause, or if surveillance footage fails to show an intentional act, your case may be dismissed. Our legal team uses these strategies regularly to secure favorable outcomes for clients across New Jersey.
In some cases, diversionary programs such as Conditional Dismissal or the Pretrial Intervention Program (PTI) may be available to first-time offenders, allowing you to avoid a conviction by meeting court requirements and demonstrating rehabilitation. These alternatives can be life-changing opportunities when handled by an experienced defense lawyer.
Juvenile Defense for Minors Charged with Shoplifting in New Jersey
If your child or teenager has been accused of shoplifting, it’s vital to seek immediate legal help. Juvenile charges are handled differently from adult criminal cases but can still affect education and employment opportunities. Our attorneys regularly represent minors in juvenile court and work to protect their records through early intervention. In many cases, we can secure diversionary outcomes similar to those used for domestic violence or weapons offense defendants, helping young clients learn from the experience without lasting harm.
Why Hire a New Jersey Shoplifting Lawyer?
Even a seemingly small shoplifting accusation can lead to serious consequences. A conviction could cost you your job, damage your reputation, and limit your opportunities. Our attorneys have more than 400 years of combined experience defending criminal law cases in New Jersey, including assault, disorderly conduct, drug crimes, and cyber crime. We understand how prosecutors build cases and how to counter them effectively, whether that means negotiating for reduced penalties or taking your case to trial.
Discuss Your Case with a New Jersey Shoplifting Lawyer
If you’re facing shoplifting charges in New Jersey, time is critical. Early intervention by an experienced attorney can improve your outcome dramatically. At Helmer, Conley & Kasselman, P.A., our lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and helping you move forward with your life. Call 877-435-6371 or request a confidential consultation online with a New Jersey shoplifting lawyer today. You can also visit our homepage to learn more about our firm and our statewide defense services. Call Us – Problem Solved.
