The penalties for shoplifting and theft can be serious. At our firm of criminal defense, employment, and divorce attorneys in Bergen County strive to get the charges reduced to Borough Ordinance violations, or to have them dismissed completely. If a conviction can not be avoided, we request community service, probation, or treatment in lieu of jail time
| Theft Charges |
Value of Merchandise |
Potential Jail Term |
Potential Fine |
| Disorderly Persons Offense |
retail value of under $200 |
up to 6 months |
up to $1,000 |
| 4th Degree |
retail value of between $200 and $500 |
up to 18 months |
up to $10,000 |
| 3rd Degree |
retail value of over $500 but less than $75,000 |
3 to 5 years in prison |
up to $15,000 |
| 2nd Degree |
retail value of $75,000 or more |
5 to 10 years in prison |
up to $150,000 |
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New Jersey Lawyer Blog
