Shoplifting Lawyer New Jersey — What Are Your Defense Options?
Shoplifting in New Jersey is a serious offense prosecuted under N.J. Stat. § 2C:20-11, with penalties ranging from a disorderly persons offense to an indictable crime. A conviction can lead to jail, fines, and a permanent record. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for shoplifting charges across New Jersey.
New Jersey Shoplifting Law
New Jersey law defines shoplifting under N.J. Stat. § 2C:20-11. The charge is not based solely on the value of the merchandise but on the actions taken, such as concealing items, altering price tags, or transferring goods to another container. The severity of the charge—whether a disorderly persons offense or an indictable crime—depends on the full retail value of the items involved. Understanding this statute is the first step in building a defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Jersey Courts | New Jersey Legislature
The firm was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor whose background in accounting provides a distinct advantage in cases involving financial allegations like shoplifting.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the shoplifting statute, refer to N.J. Stat. § 2C:20-11 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court procedures and forms, visit the New Jersey Courts website.
Local Court Process for Shoplifting Charges
Shoplifting cases in New Jersey typically begin in municipal court for disorderly persons offenses. More serious indictable charges may start there but are transferred to the Superior Court. Prosecutors often seek restitution and may offer pre-trial intervention (PTI) programs for first-time offenders. An experienced Shoplifting Attorney New Jersey can identify weaknesses in the store’s evidence, such as unclear surveillance footage or improper detainment by loss prevention.
- You receive a summons or are arrested at the store.
- Your attorney obtains all evidence, including security video and loss prevention reports.
- We file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during detainment.
- We negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, PTI, or a reduced charge.
- If necessary, we prepare for and present a defense at trial.
- We advise on expungement eligibility after the case concludes.
Potential Penalties for Shoplifting in New Jersey
In New Jersey, shoplifting penalties escalate based on the value of the merchandise, ranging from a disorderly persons offense with up to 6 months in jail to an indictable crime with years of imprisonment.
| Offense Level (By Value) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under $200 | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, possible restitution |
| $200 – $500 | 4th Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Indictable record, restitution |
| $500 – $75,000 | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Indictable record, significant restitution |
| Over $75,000 | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Indictable record, major restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Shoplifting Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which is particularly valuable for analyzing loss prevention claims and financial evidence in shoplifting cases. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Our Approach to Shoplifting Cases
Our defense strategy begins with a meticulous review of all evidence. We examine the store’s surveillance footage for clarity, question the procedures used by loss prevention officers during detainment, and challenge the prosecution’s proof of intent to steal. We have successfully argued for dismissals when detainment was unlawful or evidence was insufficient. In one case, we secured a dismissal after proving the store’s security footage did not clearly show our client concealing merchandise.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Jersey Shoplifting Defense Team
If you are facing shoplifting charges, contact our Shoplifting Law Firm New Jersey for immediate assistance. Our New Jersey location is conveniently situated to serve clients across the state.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (732) 651-3900
By appointment only.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can shoplifting charges be dropped in New Jersey?
Yes. Charges can be dropped if the evidence is weak, your rights were violated during detainment, or you qualify for a pre-trial intervention (PTI) program. An attorney can file motions to suppress evidence or negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal.
Is shoplifting a felony in NJ?
It depends on the value. New Jersey uses the term “indictable crime” instead of felony. Shoplifting merchandise valued at $200 or more is an indictable crime (4th, 3rd, or 2nd degree). Under $200 is a disorderly persons offense, which is not an indictable crime but still a criminal offense.
Will I go to jail for a first-time shoplifting offense?
Not necessarily. For a first-time disorderly persons offense, jail is possible but not automatic. Courts often consider alternatives like fines, community service, or PTI. An attorney can advocate for these alternatives to avoid jail time.
Can a store sue me for shoplifting also to criminal charges?
Yes. Under New Jersey’s Civil Recovery Statute (N.J. Stat. § 2A:61C-1), a merchant can sue for damages, often between $150 and $500, plus legal fees, regardless of the criminal case outcome. This is a separate civil matter.
How can a Shoplifting Lawyer New Jersey help me?
A Shoplifting Lawyer New Jersey reviews evidence, challenges the prosecution’s case, negotiates for reduced charges or diversion programs, and defends you at trial. Their goal is to achieve the best possible outcome, which may be a dismissal, not guilty verdict, or minimized penalties.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles Theft Defense, Disorderly Persons Offenses, and Expungement.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your shoplifting charge.