Shoplifting

Morristown Shoplifting Lawyer

Fighting Against Accusations of Retail Theft

Shoplifting typically involves taking merchandise from a store without paying for it, but it can encompass other actions, such as altering price tags or transferring goods from one container to another. A criminal offense, shoplifting carries severe legal penalties. Convictions may result in hefty fines and even incarceration, making it crucial to understand the gravity of the situation.

Navigating the complex legal landscape can be challenging, especially for individuals without a background in the law. Making missteps during a case can be detrimental. Throughout the proceedings, the insights of a Morristown shoplifting attorney come into play. They can provide invaluable advice and guidance, helping you avoid pitfalls and protecting your rights throughout the legal process. With their assistance, you can get through the justice system more efficiently.

The Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura is here to support individuals facing shoplifting charges. We take a personalized approach, tailoring our defense strategies to the unique circumstances of each case. Our primary goal is safeguarding our clients’ best interests and working towards just outcomes. We handle criminal matters with the utmost professionalism and dedication.

If you are looking for a shoplifting lawyer in Morristown, please consider contacting us at (973) 832-0841.

Types of Shoplifting

New Jersey's shoplifting law is codified under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-11, which defines the various types of conduct that can be considered shoplifting. Understanding these different forms of shoplifting is essential in comprehending the legal framework around this offense.

The various forms of shoplifting include the following:

  • Taking merchandise from a store without paying the full price for it: This is the most common and straightforward form of shoplifting. It involves physically taking an item from a store without completing the purchase process by paying the total price.
  • Concealing merchandise to remove it from a store: Shoplifters may attempt to hide merchandise on their person, in bags, or in other ways to exit the store without detection. This act constitutes a form of shoplifting.
  • Altering or removing labels, price tags, or other markings of value to attempt to pay less than full price: Shoplifters sometimes tamper with labels or price tags on merchandise to lower the apparent price, allowing them to pay less than the total retail value.
  • Transferring products from one container to another to deprive the merchant of all or part of the value of the merchandise: This involves moving merchandise from its original packaging to a different container, intending to pay less than the actual value or to deceive store staff.
  • Under-ringing the merchandise: Shoplifters may manipulate the checkout process by intentionally underpaying for items or not scanning certain items to pay less than the actual value.
  • Removing a shopping cart from a store: In some cases, individuals may attempt to take a shopping cart from a store property, which can also be considered shoplifting.

Consequences of Shoplifting

Shoplifting offenses in New Jersey encompass a broad spectrum of charges, ranging from relatively minor offenses to more serious crimes. The severity of the charge depends on various factors, primarily the value of the merchandise involved in the shoplifting incident.

The grading and penalties associated with a shoplifting charge are directly tied to the monetary value of the merchandise stolen or shoplifted. For instance, if the value of the stolen item is less than $200, it is typically classified as a disorderly persons offense, which is a less serious charge. On the other hand, if the value of the merchandise exceeds $75,000, it can be charged as a crime of the second degree, which is a more severe criminal offense.

The legal consequences of a shoplifting conviction can be significant. For example, disorderly persons offense, the least severe charge, can result in a jail sentence of up to 6 months. A crime of the second degree, the most severe shoplifting charge, may lead to imprisonment for a period of 5 to 10 years. In addition to jail time, individuals convicted of shoplifting can face substantial fines and other legal penalties.

A shoplifting conviction can have lasting repercussions on an individual's criminal record. It can create a permanent mark that may affect future job opportunities, housing applications, and other aspects of life.

Hiring a Shoplifting Defense Attorney

When facing shoplifting charges, the advantage of hiring a criminal defense attorney cannot be overstated. Shoplifting cases can be legally complex, and having an experienced lawyer by your side is essential to navigate the legal process effectively.

A skilled shoplifting attorney in Morristown can explore various strategies to defend your case.

These defenses may include the following:

  • No intent to deprive
  • Mistaken identity
  • False accusations

The Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura has over 10 years of experience handling criminal cases. We are well-versed in the nuances of the legal system and are dedicated to serving as fierce advocates for our clients.

To schedule a consultation, please call us at (973) 832-0841 or contact us online.

Why Choose Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura?

Put Our Strategy to Work for You
  • We Strategize Based Off Each Clients’ Unique Situation
  • Extensive Knowledge That Equals Results
  • Complex & Aggressive Criminal Representation
  • Your Initial Consultation Is Free
  • Our Firm Believes in Transparent Communication
  • We Provide Personalized Attention to Each Case

Devoted to Our Clients

We Understand What it Takes to Win a Case

At Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Knowledgeable, kind, and calm."
    The Law Offices of Joseph S. Scura is outstanding. Knowledgeable, kind, and calm, their team showed unparalleled expertise and handled everything with aplomb in court. Compassionate and understanding, they resolved my situation promptly and eased my anxiety. Highly recommend.
    Steve D.
    "I recommend him and would use him again"
    I was in a super stressful situation in which a driver was claiming I caused damaged to their vehicle while driving amongst other things..Mr Scura answered my initial phone call at 7pm at night, and was extremely knowledgeable and kind. He handled everything professionally, and in a timely manner always responding to all of my questions and obtained a very fair and optimal outcome in my case. I’d like to also mention he took all of the stress out of the situation for me at a time in my life that was immensely stressful! I recommend him and would use him again ( but hopefully don’t have to)
    A Franks
    "I highly recommended Attorney Joseph S. Scura"
    I hired Joseph S. Scura for my criminal case in Superior Court. Joseph was able to downgrade this case to municipal court and at the end have the matter dismissed. I couldn't have asked for a better outcome. Joseph was very supportive and never disappointing from the very start. I was able to reach out to him any time by text message or phone call with timely responses. His suggestions were very positive and genuine. I highly recommended Attorney Joseph S. Scura and his team for any criminal case.
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    "Joe Is An Excellent Attorney"
    Joe is an excellent attorney whose phenomenal research and analytical skills, and ability to anticipate the opposing party's next move help him and his client choose the best strategy for each aspect of the case. He helped me settle a case in my favor.
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    "Skill and professionalism commendable."
    My dog and I were in serious trouble, and Joe Scura negotiated the best possible solution for both of us. He remained patient and respectful with me during what turned out to be a lengthy ordeal, but it ended well.
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    "Extremely knowledgeable Professional"
    I couldn't recommend Joe Scura and his team more highly. Five stars is not enough. An extremely knowledgeable professional who follows up promptly and maintains contact. He patiently guided me through the legal system and worked tirelessly to turn a potentially serious situation into a dismissal without trial. I hope that there will never be another situation where I would need an attorney, but if so, I would call upon Joe's services without hesitation.
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    "Total Professionalism"
    Mr. Scura handled my court case in Hunterdon County recently with total professionalism. He made a very difficult situation for me less emotional and was able to help me reduce the charges and reach a settlement without further court appearances.
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    "Highly Intelligent and Quick Witted"
    Joe Scura is an outstanding lawyer. He's highly intelligent and quick witted. We won our case by Joe getting it dismissed. I'd hire him again in a second. I'd highly recommend his services to anyone in need.
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