Theft Lawyer Bergen County NJ | SRIS, P.C.
Theft Lawyer in Bergen County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
Theft charges in Bergen County, New Jersey, range from disorderly persons offenses to indictable crimes under N.J.S.A. Title 2C, carrying penalties from fines to years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for shoplifting, burglary, and fraud cases heard at the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage.
New Jersey Theft Laws and Penalties
Theft in New Jersey is governed by the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, specifically N.J.S.A. 2C:20-1 et seq. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property involved and the circumstances of the alleged act. A theft attorney Bergen County NJ can explain how these factors apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997, our firm has extensive experience with the local court system. Understanding the specific statutes is the first step in building a defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official New Jersey Statutes (N.J.S.A. Title 2C). Court procedures and forms for Bergen County can be found on the New Jersey Courts website for the Bergen Vicinage.
Handling a Theft Case in Bergen County Court
In Bergen County, theft cases are heard in either Municipal Court (for disorderly persons offenses) or Superior Court (for indictable crimes). Prosecutors often seek restitution. New Jersey’s bail reform means release decisions are based on a risk assessment, not cash. A theft law firm Bergen County NJ like ours is familiar with these local procedures.
- Initial Appearance & Complaint: You will be served with a complaint detailing the theft charge. Your first court date will be scheduled.
- Case Review & Discovery: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution, including police reports and surveillance footage.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your lawyer will engage in negotiations with the assistant prosecutor to seek a reduction or dismissal.
- Motion Practice: If evidence was obtained improperly, your attorney may file a motion to suppress it.
- Resolution: The case may be resolved through a plea agreement, diversion program like PTI, or proceed to trial.
- Trial or Sentencing: If no agreement is reached, your case will go to trial before a judge or jury. If convicted, sentencing will follow.
Potential Penalties for Theft in New Jersey
In Bergen County, theft penalties are determined by the degree of the crime, which is based primarily on the value of the property involved.
| Offense / Value | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of $200 or less (Shoplifting) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | None | Restitution, civil demand from store |
| Theft of $200 – $500 | 4th Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Theft of $500 – $75,000 | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | None | Restitution, significant prison time |
| Theft over $75,000 | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | None | Presumption of imprisonment, major fines |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Theft Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined legal experience exceeds 120 years. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in theft cases by challenging evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and pursuing diversion programs when appropriate. Our approach is direct and focused on your specific situation.
Case Results in Theft Defense
While every case is unique, our firm-wide experience includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In theft cases, successful strategies have included securing Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for first-time offenders charged with indictable theft, obtaining reductions from indictable degrees to disorderly persons offenses, and having charges dismissed due to lack of evidence or procedural errors.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Theft Defense in Bergen County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 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.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at the Bergen County Courthouse in Hackensack. We represent individuals in Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, and surrounding communities. If you need a theft lawyer near Bergen County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is shoplifting a felony in New Jersey?
It depends on the value. Shoplifting items worth $200 or less is a disorderly persons offense (misdemeanor). Values between $200 and $500 constitute a 4th degree crime (felony equivalent), and amounts over $500 are 3rd degree or higher.
Can a theft charge be expunged in NJ?
Yes, but waiting periods apply. A disorderly persons theft conviction can be expunged after 3 years. An indictable (felony-equivalent) theft conviction requires a 5-year wait. Successful completion of PTI results in automatic dismissal, which is also expungeable.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for theft?
PTI is a diversion program for first-time offenders charged with indictable crimes, including theft. If you complete 1-3 years of supervision and meet all conditions, the charges are dismissed. A theft attorney Bergen County NJ can advise on your eligibility.
What should I do if accused of theft?
Do not discuss the case with store security or police without an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and contact a theft lawyer Bergen County NJ immediately. Preserve any evidence that might support your side of the story.
Does New Jersey have cash bail for theft?
No. New Jersey abolished cash bail in 2017. Release after a theft arrest is determined by a Public Safety Assessment score that evaluates flight risk and danger to the community, not your ability to pay money.
For more information on related legal issues, see our pages on New Jersey Criminal Defense, Criminal Defense in Hunterdon County, and DUI Defense in Bergen County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.