Petit Larceny Lawyer Mercer County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A petit larceny charge in Mercer County, NJ, is a disorderly persons offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for shoplifting and theft charges. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Mercer County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduced penalties. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Understanding Petit Larceny Charges in New Jersey
In New Jersey, petit larceny is not a standalone statute but is prosecuted under the general theft statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2. The charge becomes a disorderly persons offense (similar to a misdemeanor in other states) when the value of the stolen property is less than $200. If the value is $200 or more, the charge escalates to an indictable crime (felony). The statute defines theft as the unlawful taking or exercise of control over the property of another with the purpose to deprive them of it.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the theft statute, see N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court procedures and forms, visit the Mercer Vicinage Superior Court website.
Local Court Process for a Petit Larceny Charge
Petit larceny cases in Mercer County are heard in the Superior Court, Criminal Division, as disorderly persons offenses. Prosecutors in the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office handle these cases. The court process moves quickly, and an early intervention by a defense lawyer is critical to protect your rights and explore pre-trial resolutions.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery: Your attorney will request all evidence from the prosecutor, including witness statements and surveillance footage.
- Pre-Trial Conferences: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, potentially seeking a reduction to a municipal ordinance violation or entry into a diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge. If an agreement is reached, you will plead guilty to the reduced charge.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose penalties, which may include fines, probation, and potentially jail time.
- Expungement: After waiting the required period, you may be eligible to have the record expunged.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Mercer County
In Mercer County, a petit larceny conviction as a disorderly persons offense carries up to 6 months in jail, a $1,000 fine, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value under $200) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months in county jail | Up to $1,000 | None directly | Criminal record, possible restitution, difficulty finding employment or housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a theft charge can disrupt your life, and we work to resolve your case efficiently and favorably.
Our firm has successfully defended clients against theft and shoplifting charges across New Jersey. For example, our team, including experienced attorneys like Mr. Sris, has secured dismissals where store security procedures were flawed and negotiated reductions to non-criminal offenses for first-time offenders.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Mercer County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Mercer County. We are accessible from I-95, Route 1, and Route 29, near the Trenton courthouse. We provide representation for individuals in Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton Township, Ewing, Lawrence, West Windsor, and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is petit larceny a misdemeanor in New Jersey?
Yes. In New Jersey, petit larceny (theft under $200) is classified as a disorderly persons offense, which is equivalent to a misdemeanor in other states.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Mercer County?
It depends. A prosecutor may drop charges if the evidence is weak, or your misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Mercer County can negotiate for a diversion program like Conditional Discharge. Successful completion often results in a dismissal.
What should I do if I’m accused of shoplifting?
Do not make any statements to store security or police. Politely assert your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Contact a shoplifting charge lawyer Mercer County immediately to begin building your defense.
How long does a petit larceny case take?
Most disorderly persons offense cases in Mercer County Superior Court can be resolved within several months, depending on the issues in dispute, negotiations, and court scheduling.
Will I go to jail for a first-time petit larceny offense?
It is possible but not guaranteed. For a first-time offender, a skilled petit larceny lawyer Mercer County will often advocate for probation, community service, and fines instead of jail time.
Can I get a shoplifting charge expunged?
Yes, a disorderly persons offense like petit larceny is generally eligible for expungement in New Jersey after a waiting period, provided you have no other criminal convictions.
Related Legal Services in Mercer County
If you are facing other charges, our firm can help. Learn more about our services as a Mercer County DUI lawyer or a Mercer County federal criminal lawyer. For all New Jersey theft defense information, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific case.
Your case in Mercer County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Mercer County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage (7th Vicinage), 175 South Broad Street, Trenton, NJ 08650, telephone (609) 571-4200, 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 federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Mercer 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: Mercer County NJ lawyers directory · Petit Larceny Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Petit Larceny Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Petit Larceny Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.