Identity Theft Lawyer Camden County — Defending Against Fraud Charges
Identity theft in Camden County is a serious crime prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:21-17, with penalties ranging from a disorderly persons offense to a second-degree crime. If you are accused of identity fraud, securing an experienced identity theft lawyer Camden County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate defense for those facing stolen identity charges in Superior Court.
New Jersey Identity Theft Law & Penalties
In New Jersey, identity theft is formally defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:21-17. A person commits this offense if they knowingly, and with purpose to defraud, obtain any personal identifying information of another and use that information to obtain a benefit, services, or avoid payment. The statute covers a wide range of actions, from using someone’s credit card number to assuming another person’s identity to obtain medical care or employment.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a deep understanding of the financial and evidentiary details that define identity fraud cases. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the benefit obtained or the loss incurred by the victim.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official N.J.S.A. 2C:21-17 (New Jersey Legislature). Court procedures and forms for Camden County are available through the Camden Vicinage website.
Facing Identity Theft Charges in Camden County Court
Camden County Superior Court, Criminal Division, handles all indictable (felony-equivalent) identity theft cases. A key local procedural fact is that New Jersey’s Criminal Justice Reform Act abolished cash bail. Your pretrial release will be determined by a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) score evaluating flight risk and danger, not your ability to pay. Prosecutors in this vicinage often pursue these charges aggressively due to their financial nature.
- Initial Arrest & Complaint: Charges may be filed following a police investigation or a report from a financial institution or individual.
- First Appearance & Detention Hearing: The court will advise you of the charges, appoint counsel if needed, and hold a hearing to determine if you will be released pretrial based on the PSA.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your identity fraud defense lawyer Camden County will obtain all evidence from the prosecution, including financial records, digital evidence, and witness statements, to challenge the state’s case.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney may negotiate for a PTI application or seek to have charges downgraded to a Municipal Court disorderly persons offense.
- Grand Jury & Superior Court: If indicted, the case proceeds in Superior Court, where your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence and prepare for trial or negotiate a plea resolution.
- Resolution: The case concludes through a trial verdict, negotiated plea agreement, or successful completion of a diversion program like PTI.
Potential Penalties for Identity Theft in New Jersey
In Camden County, identity theft under N.J.S.A. 2C:21-17 can be charged as a disorderly persons offense, a fourth-degree crime, a third-degree crime, or a second-degree crime, with penalties escalating based on the monetary value involved.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less than $500 | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months jail | Up to $1,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
| $500 – $75,000 | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3-5 years state prison | Up to $15,000 | Restitution, felony record |
| Over $75,000 | Crime of the 2nd Degree | 5-10 years state prison | Up to $150,000 | Restitution, presumption of imprisonment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Identity Theft Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, providing a distinct advantage in dissecting the financial and digital evidence central to identity fraud cases. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes across New Jersey.
Our Approach to Identity Theft Cases
Our identity theft lawyer Camden County team builds defenses by challenging the prosecution’s evidence chain. We scrutinize how personal identifying information was obtained, whether you had knowledge and intent to defraud, and the actual linkage between you and the fraudulent activity. Common defense strategies include lack of intent, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, and constitutional violations during the investigation. We have secured dismissals, reductions, and favorable PTI placements for clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for 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) 334-7465
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Camden County courts. We are accessible via I-76, Route 70, and the NJ Turnpike. As an identity theft lawyer near Camden, Cherry Hill, and Gloucester Township, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Identity Theft Defense FAQs in Camden County
What should I do if I am arrested for identity theft in Camden County?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case or attempt to explain yourself to investigators. Contact an identity theft lawyer Camden County from our firm at (888) 437-7747 for 24/7 assistance.
Can I get PTI for an identity theft charge?
It depends. First-time offenders charged with third or fourth-degree identity theft are often eligible for Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI). A skilled identity fraud defense lawyer Camden County can advocate for your admission, arguing that PTI serves the interests of justice and rehabilitation.
What is the difference between a disorderly persons and indictable identity theft charge?
The value involved determines the degree. Theft of less than $500 is a disorderly persons offense handled in Municipal Court. Amounts of $500 or more are indictable crimes tried in Superior Court, carrying state prison terms. An experienced lawyer can challenge the valuation.
What are common defenses to identity theft charges?
Defenses include lack of intent to defraud, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence linking you to the crime, unauthorized use of your own device or information by another, and violations of your rights during the investigation or arrest.
Will I have to pay restitution if convicted?
Yes. Courts in New Jersey almost always order restitution to the victim for their financial losses as part of the sentence, also to any fines or jail time. A lawyer can negotiate the amount and payment terms.
For more information, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Burlington County and with related charges such as Credit Card Fraud.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal guidance regarding identity theft charges.