New Jersey Theft Defense Attorney

At Putterman Legal, our New Jersey theft defense attorney invests the time, resources, and attention to detail that you can rely on. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor theft charge or a felony theft charge, we are here to provide you with a strong, solutions-focused defense. If you or your loved one was arrested for theft, please do not hesitate to contact our New Jersey defense attorney today.

What to Know About Theft Charges in New Jersey

Theft is a property crime, potentially a very serious property crime depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Theft in New Jersey is prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3 and related provisions of Title 2C. A person commits theft if they unlawfully take, exercise control over, or transfer property belonging to another with the intent to deprive the owner of it. Theft includes both physical property and intangible items such as services, utilities, or even public benefits. Here are some specific things to know about the criminal theft laws in New Jersey: 

• There are Different Degrees of Theft: Theft is graded by value. Property worth less than $200 is a disorderly persons offense, handled in municipal court. Property worth $200 to $500 is a fourth-degree crime, punishable by up to 18 months in prison. Property valued between $500 and $75,000 is a third-degree crime with penalties of three to five years. Theft over $75,000 is a second-degree crime carrying five to ten years in state prison.
• Common Theft Offenses: Theft charges in New Jersey include shoplifting, theft by deception, theft of services, and theft by unlawful taking. Notably, our state has a specific statute for shoplifting (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-11).  Theft by deception involves obtaining property by lying or misleading another. Theft of services occurs when a person uses or benefits from services without paying, such as utilities or transportation. 
• Key Aggravating Factors: Certain circumstances enhance penalties for theft in New Jersey. Theft from the person of another, theft of a firearm, motor vehicle theft, or theft committed during a disaster elevates charges regardless of value. Beyond that, another key point to know is that repeat offenders face harsher sentencing exposure under New Jersey’s persistent offender provisions. That is most often an issue in shoplifting cases. 

Why Rely On New Jersey Theft Defense Lawyer Bonnie Putterman

Theft charges are complicated. If you are facing a charge, your freedom could be at stake. Any person arrested for theft is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Bonnie Putterman is a New Jersey defense lawyer with a robust background in criminal justice. Our client testimonials tell the story of what we can do for you. When you reach out to our Atlantic County law office, you will have a chance to connect with a New Jersey theft defense attorney who can: 

• Hear what you have to say and answer questions about your case; 
• Investigate the theft charge—gathering all relevant evidence; 
• Handle correspondence with police and/or prosecutors; and
• Develop a personalized theft defense strategy focused on getting the best outcome. 

Theft Charges in New Jersey: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Contact Our New Jersey Theft Defense Attorney Today

At Putterman Legal, our New Jersey theft defense lawyer provides solutions-focused legal advocacy to clients. Theft cases can be challenging. You do not have to go up against police or prosecutors alone. Contact our criminal defense firm today for a fully confidential, no obligation consultation. We defend theft charges all across New Jersey.