Somerville, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/25/2017 -- In the month of May alone, over 7,000 New Jersey residents were arrested for shoplifting. Simon Law Group is urging residents to understand the penalties of shoplifting in an effort to reduce the rates of theft across the state.
Penalties associated with shoplifting charges heavily depend on the retail value of the goods that have been stolen. In New Jersey, these penalties come in different levels called "degrees," and special litigation is needed to help navigate these charges. For example, if a resident was to be charged with a third-degree shoplifting charge, a third-degree criminal lawyer in NJ would be able to provide the best help available.
Most shoplifting charges are classified as either third or fourth-degree offenses. If someone is accused of shoplifting over $500 but less than $75,000 worth of merchandise, they will likely face third-degree shoplifting charges. The penalties for third-degree shoplifting can include up to $15,000 in fines and three to five years in jail. If that same person were to be accused of shoplifting over $200 but less than $500 worth of merchandise, they would likely face fourth-degree shoplifting charges. Fourth-degree shoplifting charges, if convicted, can carry fines of up to $10,000 and up to 18 months in jail.
Fourth-degree shoplifting charges can be confusing and difficult to navigate; an experienced fourth-degree criminal lawyer in NJ can potentially help anyone struggling with these types of charges to downgrade to that of a misdemeanor, which only carries up to a $1,000 fine and potentially six months in jail.
Shoplifting is a serious charge. Anyone facing shoplifting charges of any degree needs an experienced legal team to minimize penalties. Interested parties are encouraged to contact Simon Law Group today by calling 855-370-5359, or visiting this firm online at https://www.simonattorneys.com.
About Simon Law Group
Simon Law Group, an esteemed law firm serving clients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania, offers comprehensive representation for people dealing with legal matters pertaining to criminal both indictable and disorderly persons, DUI, DWI, and severe traffic matters.
For more information, interested parties are encouraged to visit Simon Law Group online at https://www.simonattorneys.com/ or call 855-370-5359.