Larceny with Intent to Sell Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ
A larceny with intent to sell charge in Burlington County elevates a simple theft to a more serious offense, often prosecuted aggressively in the Superior Court. This charge, under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-7, implies you intended to sell the stolen property, skilled to harsher penalties. As a larceny with intent to sell lawyer Burlington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Larceny with Intent to Sell in New Jersey
Larceny with intent to sell is not a standalone statute but a specific, aggravated intent applied to theft offenses under New Jersey law. The core theft statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:20-1 et seq., defines theft as the unlawful taking or exercise of control over property with the purpose to deprive the owner. When the prosecution alleges you intended to sell the stolen goods, it invokes N.J.S.A. 2C:20-7.1, which addresses fencing (trafficking in stolen property). This allegation transforms the case, suggesting organized activity rather than a crime of opportunity, and can significantly impact the degree of the charge and potential sentence.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Key Government Resources on Theft Laws
- N.J.S.A. 2C:20-1 et seq. (Official New Jersey Theft Statutes)
- Burlington Vicinage, Superior Court of New Jersey
Defending a Larceny with Intent to Sell Charge in Burlington County
The prosecution’s case hinges on proving both the unlawful taking and the specific intent to sell. In Burlington County Superior Court, this often involves circumstantial evidence, such as the quantity of items stolen, possession of sales tools, or communications about selling. A strong defense challenges the evidence of intent directly. Did you possess the property? Was there a legitimate reason for having it? Did the police have probable cause for the stop or search? We scrutinize every step of the investigation.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: We analyze the complaint, police reports, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case regarding intent.
- Investigation & Motion Practice: We investigate the circumstances of the arrest and may file motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully.
- Negotiation & Mitigation: We engage with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office to negotiate for a reduction of charges, such as to simple theft, based on the evidence.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous trial defense focused on creating reasonable doubt about your intent to sell.
Potential Penalties for Theft Offenses in New Jersey
In Burlington County, the penalties for a theft charge depend on the value of the property and the specific circumstances, such as intent to sell, with consequences ranging from disorderly persons offenses to indictable crimes (felonies).
| Offense Degree / Type | Property Value / Circumstance | Incarceration | Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Persons Offense | Value under $200 | Up to 6 months jail | Up to $1,000 |
| Fourth-Degree Crime | $200 to $500 | Up to 18 months prison | Up to $10,000 |
| Third-Degree Crime | $500 to $75,000 | 3 to 5 years prison | Up to $15,000 |
| Second-Degree Crime | Over $75,000; or involves certain items (e.g., firearms, cars) | 5 to 10 years prison | Up to $150,000 |
Allegations of intent to sell can influence the degree charged and the prosecutor’s sentencing recommendation. A conviction can also result in a permanent criminal record, affecting employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Burlington County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand that a theft charge defense lawyer Burlington County must be prepared to challenge the state’s evidence from the first court appearance. Our approach is grounded in thorough preparation and a clear strategy for protecting your future.
Facing a Theft Charge? Contact Our Burlington County Defense Team
If you are accused of stealing with the intent to sell, the time to act is now. The prosecution will be building its case to prove intent. We begin building your defense immediately. Our team examines the evidence, advises you on your options, and represents you at every stage in the Burlington County Superior Court.
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) 334-7467
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Burlington County courts. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, I-295, and Route 18. If you need a stealing defense lawyer Burlington County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only. We serve communities throughout Burlington County including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
Larceny with Intent to Sell Defense FAQs
What makes “intent to sell” different from simple theft?
It depends. The prosecution must prove you stole property with the specific purpose of selling it, not just keeping or using it. This intent is often inferred from circumstances like the type/quantity of goods, possession of sales materials, or communications about selling. This allegation can lead to more severe charges and penalties than simple theft.
Can the charge be reduced if the property is returned?
Yes, in many cases. Returning stolen property is a strong mitigating factor. It can demonstrate remorse and reduce the victim’s loss. A skilled larceny with intent to sell lawyer Burlington County can use this action to negotiate with the prosecutor for a charge reduction, such as to a disorderly persons offense, or to seek a more favorable plea agreement.
What should I do if I’m arrested for this charge?
First, remain silent and ask for an attorney. Do not discuss the case or your intent with anyone but your lawyer. Contact a defense attorney as early as possible. We will advise you on the next steps, which may include arranging bail, reviewing the complaint, and preparing for your first court appearance in Burlington County Superior Court.
Is this charge always a felony in New Jersey?
No. New Jersey uses the term “indictable crime” for felony-level offenses. Whether this charge is an indictable crime depends primarily on the value of the stolen property. Values under $200 are typically disorderly persons offenses (similar to misdemeanors). However, intent to sell can influence how the value is calculated or perceived by the prosecutor.
How can a lawyer challenge the “intent” part of the charge?
A theft charge defense lawyer Burlington County challenges intent by attacking the evidence. Was there proof you planned to sell, or just possess? Were statements about selling coerced or taken out of context? Could the items have been for personal use? We file motions to exclude weak or improper evidence and argue to the court or jury that the intent was not proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
For more information on related defenses, see our pages on business law in Burlington County or federal criminal defense in Burlington County. For help in nearby areas, we also serve as a theft charge defense lawyer Camden County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.
Your case in Burlington 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 Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, 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 Burlington 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: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Larceny with Intent to Sell Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Larceny with Intent to Sell Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Larceny with Intent to Sell Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.