Theft Lawyer Gloucester County — Defending Larceny & Stealing Charges
Theft charges in Gloucester County, NJ, are serious under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2, ranging from disorderly persons offenses to indictable crimes with years in prison. A conviction can damage your record and future. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of theft, larceny, and stealing charges.
New Jersey Theft Laws & Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
In New Jersey, theft is governed by N.J.S.A. Title 2C, the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice. The specific statute for theft, N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2, defines the unlawful taking or exercise of control over movable property with the purpose to deprive the owner. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property and the circumstances.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how prosecutors build these cases. We use that insight to challenge the evidence against you.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures for Gloucester County are handled at the Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage website.
Facing a Theft Charge in Gloucester County Court
If you are charged with theft in Gloucester County, your case path depends on the degree. Disorderly persons (misdemeanor) theft cases start in Municipal Court. Indictable crimes (felonies) go directly to the Gloucester County Superior Court in Woodbury. New Jersey’s bail reform means release is based on a risk assessment, not cash. An experienced larceny defense lawyer Gloucester County can handle this system.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain discovery (evidence) from the prosecutor to review the case against you.
- We will explore all defenses, such as claim of right, mistaken identity, or lack of intent.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable resolution, which may include Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for first-time offenders.
- If a fair plea cannot be reached, prepare for and proceed to a bench or jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Theft in New Jersey
In Gloucester County, a theft charge can carry penalties from fines and probation to multiple years in state prison, depending on the degree of the crime.
| Offense Degree | Property Value / Circumstance | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Persons | Under $200 | Up to 6 months jail | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record, possible restitution |
| 4th Degree Crime | $200 – $500 | Up to 18 months prison | Up to $10,000 | Felony record, restitution, collateral consequences |
| 3rd Degree Crime | $500 – $75,000 | 3-5 years prison | Up to $15,000 | Presumption of imprisonment for higher values |
| 2nd Degree Crime | Over $75,000 or specific types (e.g., firearms) | 5-10 years prison | Up to $150,000 | Mandatory parole ineligibility, severe long-term impact |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Theft Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients across our service areas. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights and future from the moment you contact us.
Our Approach to Theft Cases
Our theft lawyer Gloucester County team begins by meticulously examining the prosecution’s evidence. We look for weaknesses in the chain of custody, valuation methods, and proof of intent. For indictable charges, we explore diversionary programs like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI), which can lead to a complete dismissal. In every case, our goal is to achieve a favorable resolution, whether through negotiation or trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Gloucester County Theft Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Gloucester County, including Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, and Glassboro. We are accessible to those needing a theft lawyer near the Gloucester County Courthouse in Woodbury.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
Gloucester County Theft Defense FAQs
What is the difference between theft and shoplifting in NJ?
In New Jersey, shoplifting (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-11) is a specific type of theft that occurs in a retail setting. The penalties are similar and based on the value of the merchandise, but shoplifting convictions can also lead to civil penalties from the store.
Can a first-time theft charge be dismissed in Gloucester County?
It depends. For first-time offenders facing an indictable (felony) theft charge, Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is often available. Successful completion of this 1-3 year supervisory program results in a complete dismissal of the charges. For disorderly persons offenses, other diversionary paths may be possible.
What should I do if I am accused of theft at work?
Do not speak to your employer or law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a stealing charge defense lawyer Gloucester County as early as possible. Statements you make can be used against you. We can advise you on your rights and interact with investigators on your behalf.
Is theft a deportable offense for non-citizens?
Yes. A theft conviction, particularly for a crime involving moral turpitude or an aggravated felony (if the sentence is one year or more), can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation, denial of naturalization, or being barred from re-entry. It is critical to consult with an attorney who understands both criminal and immigration law.
How long does a theft case take in Gloucester County?
Timelines vary. A disorderly persons theft case in Municipal Court may be resolved in 30-60 days. An indictable theft case in Superior Court typically takes several months to over a year, depending on the issues in dispute, evidence, and whether the defendant is detained.
For more information, see our main New Jersey criminal defense page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Burlington County and Camden County. If you are facing other charges, we provide DUI defense in Gloucester County and family law services.
Last verified: April 2026.
If your case reaches beyond Gloucester County, our page on theft cases across Virginia sets out what to look for at each stage.
Your case in Gloucester 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 Gloucester County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage (15th Vicinage), 70 Hunter Street, Woodbury, NJ 08096, telephone (856) 853-3200, 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 Gloucester 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: Gloucester County NJ lawyers directory · Theft Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Theft Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Theft Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.