Theft of Government Property Lawyer in Hunterdon County, NJ
Theft of government property is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641, carrying severe penalties. If you are under investigation in Hunterdon County, you need a theft of government property lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Our firm has experience with federal property theft defense in New Jersey. We provide 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: March 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey Legislature
Theft of government property is prosecuted under Title 18 of the U.S. Code. The statute, 18 U.S.C. § 641, makes it a crime to embezzle, steal, purloin, or knowingly convert to one’s use anything of value belonging to the United States. This includes tangible assets like equipment, funds, or supplies, as well as intangible assets. The law applies to anyone, not just government employees, who unlawfully takes or uses federal property. The value of the property and the defendant’s intent are central to the case and potential penalties.
Federal Law and Court Process
Charges are typically filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, which has jurisdiction over federal crimes in Hunterdon County. The case begins with an investigation by federal agencies like the FBI, IRS, or Inspector General offices. A federal grand jury may then issue an indictment. The process is governed by the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and the Speedy Trial Act.
You can read the official federal statute at the U.S. Code (18 U.S.C. § 641). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for New Jersey website.
- Contact a federal defense lawyer as early as possible if you suspect you are under investigation.
- Your lawyer will analyze the indictment and evidence, focusing on intent and property valuation.
- Your attorney will engage in pre-trial motions and negotiations, which can significantly impact the outcome.
- If the case proceeds to trial, your lawyer will present a defense in U.S. District Court.
Penalties for Theft of Government Property
In Hunterdon County, theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 can result in up to 10 years in federal prison and fines for property valued over $1,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of Government Property (value >$1,000) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Restitution, forfeiture, permanent criminal record |
| Theft of Government Property (value ≤$1,000) | Federal Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to federal cases. We understand the high stakes of federal prosecutions and the specific strategies needed for a strong defense against charges of government asset theft.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of handling federal and state cases. While specific results for theft of government property in Hunterdon County are not listed here, our approach is built on a foundation of rigorous defense. We have achieved favorable outcomes in various high-stakes criminal matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Hunterdon County, including Flemington, Clinton, and Lambertville. We are accessible via I-78 and Route 31. If you need a federal property theft defense lawyer near Hunterdon County, call us for a 24/7 phone consultation. Meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
It depends. Government property includes any money, thing of value, or record belonging to the U.S. government or any department or agency. This ranges from office supplies and equipment to funds, data, and intellectual property. The key is establishing federal ownership or custody.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the property belonged to the government?
No, not for a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 641. The statute requires that the defendant acted “knowingly.” A defense can often focus on challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove you had knowledge the property was government-owned.
What agencies investigate theft of government property?
Several agencies can investigate, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, or the agency that owns the property. In Hunterdon County, investigations often involve the FBI’s Newark field office.
What is the difference between state and federal theft charges?
Federal charges apply when the property belongs to the U.S. government or the crime crosses state lines. Federal penalties are often more severe, there is no parole, and cases are prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys in federal court, not local county prosecutors.
Should I talk to federal investigators without a lawyer?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with a government asset theft lawyer.
For more information on related defenses, see our page on criminal defense in Hunterdon County. For other federal matters, visit our New Jersey federal criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Somerset County.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If you want to see how a Hunterdon County case fits into the wider process, our page on theft of government property lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.
Your case in Hunterdon County, New Jersey
Indictable charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division; disorderly-persons offenses are heard in the municipal court where the charge was filed. In Hunterdon County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Hunterdon Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 65 Park Avenue, Flemington, NJ 08822, telephone (908) 824-9750, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Hunterdon County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Hunterdon County NJ lawyers directory · Theft of Government Property Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Theft of Government Property Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Theft of Government Property Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.