Freehold Shoplifting Lawyer
Charged with Shoplifting in Freehold?
Shoplifting is type of theft that occurs when a person enters a store and steals goods with no intention of paying. In most cases, shoplifting is discovered once the person tries to exit the store and security or an alarm detector detects merchandise that has not been purchased. Many people charged with New Jersey shoplifting crimes are good, productive citizens who made an unfortunate mistake. These people deserve a second chance. Additionally, not everyone accused of shoplifting is guilty. As such, it is imperative that you have an experienced Freehold, NJ shoplifting attorney on your side. Indeed, the right shoplifting lawyer can make all the difference.
Fighting Freehold shoplifting cases can be challenging. Freehold shoplifting cases often involve strong evidence, such as video surveillance, that places the defendant at the scene. There may also be witnesses, including store employees or security personnel, who may testify at the time of trial. Finally, the merchandise itself may be used as evidence if it was found on the defendant’s body or in their vehicle.
An experienced Freehold shoplifting lawyer can evaluate all of the evidence and develop case strategy, even if it seems as though there is a slim chance of avoiding a conviction. For instance, your attorney can challenge witness testimony, the constitutionality of the search and how the evidence was processed by law enforcement. An experienced Freehold shoplifting lawyer will examine the store video, interview witnesses and conduct an independent investigation. An experienced shoplifting attorney will demand proof of every retail charge and ensure that police followed all rules when conducting their investigation.
Fines & Monetary Penalties
The penalties for New Jersey shoplifting charges are potentially devastating.
Fines:
| Second Degree Shoplifting: | Fine of up to $150,000 | |
| Third Degree Shoplifting: | Fine of up to $15,000 | |
| Fourth Degree Shoplifting: | Fine of up to $10,000 | |
| Disorderly Persons Shoplifting: | Fine of up to $1,000 |
Jail:
| Second Degree Shoplifting: | Up to 10 Years in Jail | |
| Third Degree Shoplifting: | Up to 5 Years in Jail | |
| Fourth Degree Shoplifting: | Up to 18 Months in Jail | |
| Disorderly Persons Shoplifting: | Up to 6 Months in Jail |
* Anyone convicted of three or more Shoplifting offenses must serve 90 days in jail.
Community Service:
| First Offense Shoplifting: | 10 Days Community Service | |
| Second Offense Shoplifting: | 15 Days Community Service | |
| Third Offense Shoplifting: | 25 Days Community Service |
The Mollo Law Firm handles shoplifting cases in Freehold and throughout New Jersey. If you have been charged with Shoplifting in Freehold, or anywhere in New Jersey, it is important that you have an experienced New Jersey Shoplifting attorney. Al Mollo recently appeared on television as an authority on Municipal Court cases including, but not limited to, shoplifting cases in Freehold. The right Freehold shoplifting lawyer can make all the difference. Contact our offices for a free consultation. You can reach us at 888-356-4529 or e-mail Al Mollo directly at [email protected]. You may also visit our website at mollolawfirm.com. Thank you.
