Grand Larceny Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A grand larceny charge in Somerset County is a serious felony under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2, carrying potential state prison time. If you are accused of felony theft, securing a skilled grand larceny lawyer Somerset County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these charges. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation regarding your case.
Understanding Grand Larceny Charges in New Jersey
In New Jersey, the crime of theft is graded based on the value of the property involved. Grand larceny, formally referred to as theft by unlawful taking, is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2. The statute outlines that theft becomes a crime of the second degree if the value of the property exceeds $75,000. It is a crime of the third degree if the value is between $500 and $75,000. Theft of property valued under $500 is typically a disorderly persons offense. A conviction for a felony theft charge can result in significant incarceration, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the theft statute, refer to the New Jersey Statutes (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2). For information on court procedures in Somerset County, visit the Somerset Vicinage website.
handling a Grand Larceny Case in Somerset County
Felony theft cases in Somerset County are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Law Division. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly took or exercised unlawful control over the property of another with the purpose to deprive them of it. The value of the property, often a point of contention, directly determines the degree of the charge and potential penalties. An experienced felony theft defense lawyer Somerset County will scrutinize the evidence, including valuation methods, witness credibility, and the legality of any police searches.
- Initial Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges against you in Superior Court and will enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery Phase: Your attorney will file motions to obtain all evidence the state plans to use, including police reports, witness statements, and video surveillance.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or to challenge the prosecution’s valuation of the property.
- Plea Negotiations: Based on the strength of the evidence, your attorney will engage with the prosecutor to seek a reduction in charges or a favorable plea agreement.
- Trial Preparation: If no agreement is reached, your defense team will prepare for trial, including selecting a jury and planning cross-examinations.
- Trial & Sentencing: The case proceeds to trial before a judge or jury. If convicted, the court will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in NJ
In Somerset County, a grand theft charge can lead to years in state prison, substantial fines, and mandatory restitution, depending on the degree of the offense.
| Offense Degree | Property Value | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd Degree Crime | Over $75,000 | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Restitution, felony record |
| 3rd Degree Crime | $500 – $75,000 | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Restitution, felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is built on thorough case investigation and strategic defense planning. We understand that a grand larceny charge lawyer Somerset County must be prepared to challenge the state’s evidence at every turn.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results in Somerset County for grand larceny are not enumerated here, our firm’s extensive history includes achieving dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in felony theft cases across our service areas. Every case is unique, and we dedicate our resources to building the strongest possible defense for your specific situation. Mr. Sris oversees the firm’s strategic direction, ensuring each client’s case receives the attention it demands.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Somerset County Residents
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing charges at the Somerset County Courthouse in Somerville. We represent individuals in Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. If you need a grand larceny lawyer near Somerset County, we are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between petty theft and grand larceny in NJ?
The primary difference is the value of the stolen property. Theft of property valued at $500 or more is generally graded as a felony (indictable crime), specifically grand larceny in the third or second degree. Theft under $500 is a disorderly persons offense (petty theft).
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes, it is possible. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Somerset County can negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction to a disorderly persons offense (similar to a misdemeanor) in exchange for a plea, often based on weaknesses in the state’s evidence or mitigating circumstances.
What are the best defenses against a grand theft charge?
Common defenses include challenging the property valuation, lack of intent to steal (claim of right or mistake), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, or violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation, such as an illegal search and seizure.
Will I go to jail for a first-time grand larceny offense?
It depends. For a third-degree felony, there is a presumption of non-incarceration for first-time offenders under New Jersey’s sentencing guidelines, but prison time is still possible. For a second-degree felony, state prison is likely. An attorney can argue for probation or alternative sentencing.
How long does a grand larceny case take to resolve?
The timeline varies. A case resolved by plea may take several months. If it proceeds to trial in Superior Court, it can take a year or more from arrest to final disposition, depending on court scheduling and case complexity.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our pages on Federal Criminal Defense in Somerset County and Business Law in Somerset County. For help in nearby areas, our Bergen County Civil Litigation Lawyer can assist.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.