Theft of Government Property Lawyer in Somerset County, NJ — Federal Defense
Theft of government property in Somerset County is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. This charge can carry severe penalties, including significant prison time and fines.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | New Jersey Legislature
Federal Statute on Theft of Government Property
The primary federal statute governing theft of government property is 18 U.S.C. § 641. This law makes it a crime to embezzle, steal, purloin, or knowingly convert to one’s use or the use of another, any record, voucher, money, or thing of value of the United States or any department or agency thereof. The statute covers a wide range of property, from physical equipment and funds to sensitive data and intellectual property owned by the federal government. Prosecutions for this offense in New Jersey are handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, often following investigations by agencies like the FBI, GSA OIG, or Department of Defense.
For the official text of the statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 641 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Defense Strategy for Federal Theft Charges in Somerset County
Building a defense against federal theft of government property charges requires immediate and strategic action. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, which has divisions in Newark and Trenton, prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that many investigations begin with an audit or internal review by a federal agency’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) before being referred to the FBI or other law enforcement. Early intervention by a government asset theft lawyer Somerset County can be critical, potentially involving negotiations with the investigating agency before an indictment is sought by a grand jury.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Contact a federal defense attorney as soon as you are aware of an investigation or charge. Do not speak to investigators without counsel.
- Case Assessment & Discovery: Your attorney will review all evidence, including search warrants, subpoenas, and grand jury materials, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Investigate Intent & Knowledge: A core defense often revolves around whether you knowingly and intentionally stole government property, or if there was a misunderstanding or lack of criminal intent.
- Explore Pretrial Resolutions: Your lawyer may negotiate for a pretrial diversion program, a plea to a lesser charge, or other resolutions to avoid trial and minimize penalties.
- Prepare for Trial or Sentencing: If the case proceeds, your attorney will build a strong defense for trial or, if necessary, advocate for the most favorable sentence under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Theft of Government Property
In Somerset County, federal theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 can result in fines up to $250,000 and imprisonment for up to 10 years, with penalties increasing if the property value exceeds $1,000.
| Offense Level | Property Value | Maximum Incarceration | Maximum Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Misdemeanor | $1,000 or less | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Restitution, forfeiture |
| Felony | Exceeds $1,000 | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Restitution, forfeiture, loss of federal benefits |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of federal court and the specific procedures of the District of New Jersey. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights and future from the initial investigation through resolution.
Our Commitment to Your Case
Firm-wide, SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While every federal case is unique, our team is committed to providing a diligent and assertive defense for clients in Somerset County facing theft of government property allegations. We prepare each case as if it will go to trial, which often strengthens our position in negotiations.
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) 651-9670
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at federal courts across the state, including the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. We serve communities throughout Somerset County including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster.
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes “government property” under federal law?
It depends. Government property is broadly defined under 18 U.S.C. § 641. It includes any money, thing of value, record, or voucher owned by the U.S. or any federal agency. This can range from office supplies and equipment to funds, data, and even intangible intellectual property developed with government resources.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the property belonged to the government?
Possibly. A key element the prosecution must prove is that you knew the property belonged to the U.S. government. A strong defense often focuses on challenging this knowledge or intent. A federal property theft defense lawyer Somerset County can investigate whether the government can meet this burden of proof.
What agencies investigate theft of government property?
Several agencies can investigate, often starting with the specific agency’s Office of Inspector General (OIG). Common investigators include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), General Services Administration OIG, Department of Defense OIG, or the Department of Veterans Affairs OIG. The case is then presented to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
Is restitution always required in these cases?
Yes, in nearly all convictions for theft of government property, the court will order restitution to the government for the full value of the property stolen. This is also to any fines or prison sentence imposed. An experienced theft of government property lawyer Somerset County can work to accurately value the property and potentially negotiate the restitution amount.
What should I do if I’m contacted by a federal agent about this?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a federal defense attorney. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf to protect your rights from the very start of the case.
For more information on related defenses, see our pages on New Jersey Federal Criminal Defense and Federal Criminal Lawyer in Bergen County. If you are facing other charges, we also assist with Business Law matters in Somerset County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If you want to see how a Somerset 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 Somerset 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 Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, 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 Somerset 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: Somerset 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.