Theft Defense Lawyer Somerset County — Protecting Your Rights
A theft charge in Somerset County, New Jersey, is a serious matter prosecuted under N.J.S.A. Title 2C. A conviction can lead to jail, fines, and a permanent criminal record. As a dedicated theft defense lawyer Somerset County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing larceny and stealing charges.
New Jersey Theft Laws and Penalties
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
In New Jersey, theft offenses are defined under the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, specifically N.J.S.A. 2C:20-1 et seq. The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend primarily on the value of the property involved, though other factors like the type of property or the defendant’s prior record can elevate the offense. Theft is not a single crime but a spectrum, ranging from a disorderly persons offense (misdemeanor equivalent) to a first-degree indictable crime (felony equivalent). A larceny defense lawyer Somerset County must understand these gradations to build an effective defense strategy.
Official Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 2C:20-1 (official New Jersey Legislature)
- Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (official court website)
Defending Theft Charges in Somerset County Court
Somerset County handles theft cases in two courts. Disorderly persons theft (under $200) is heard in Municipal Court. All indictable theft crimes (over $200) are prosecuted in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage at 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville. New Jersey’s 2017 bail reform means pretrial release is based on a Public Safety Assessment risk score, not cash bail. A stealing charge defense lawyer Somerset County from our firm can handle this unique system, challenge evidence, and pursue options like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for eligible first-time offenders, which can lead to a complete dismissal.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact our firm as early as possible after an arrest or receiving a summons. We analyze police reports and evidence.
- Pretrial Phase & Risk Assessment: We advocate at your detention hearing under NJ’s bail reform system and begin discovery.
- Investigation & Motion Filing: Our team investigates the arrest circumstances, reviews surveillance, and files motions to suppress evidence if rights were violated.
- Negotiation & Strategy: We negotiate with the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office for charge reduction, PTI, or other favorable dispositions.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Superior Court.
- Post-Disposition: We advise on expungement eligibility after the mandatory waiting period.
Potential Penalties for Theft in New Jersey
In Somerset County, theft penalties range from 6 months in jail for a disorderly persons offense to 20 years in prison for a first-degree crime, plus substantial fines and restitution.
| Offense Level | Property Value (Approx.) | 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, court costs |
| 3rd Degree Crime | $500 – $75,000 | 3-5 years prison | Up to $15,000 | Significant prison term, steep fines |
| 2nd Degree Crime | Over $75,000 | 5-10 years prison | Up to $150,000 | Presumption of imprisonment, major fines |
| 1st Degree Crime | Extreme cases | 10-20 years prison | Up to $200,000 | Lengthy mandatory prison term |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Somerset County Theft Defense Lawyers
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of New Jersey’s unique legal field, including the post-bail reform procedures in Somerset County. We provide “Advocacy Without Borders,” offering relentless defense for those accused of theft, larceny, and related charges.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local results are proprietary, our firm-wide commitment is demonstrated through 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our team, including seasoned litigators like Of Counsel Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, works collaboratively to challenge the prosecution’s case at every turn. We meticulously review evidence, identify procedural weaknesses, and advocate for dismissals, charge reductions, and alternative resolutions like PTI.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Somerset County Theft Defense Attorney
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) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Somerset County courts. We represent individuals in Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Theft Charges in Somerset County
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 involving retail merchandise. The penalties are similar and based on the full retail value of the items. A theft defense lawyer Somerset County can defend against both charges.
Can a first-time theft charge be dismissed in Somerset County?
It depends. For first-time indictable (felony-level) theft offenses, Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) is often available. Successful completion of the PTI program results in a complete dismissal. For disorderly persons offenses, negotiations for a conditional discharge or dismissal are possible. An experienced larceny defense lawyer Somerset County can assess your eligibility.
What should I do if I am accused of theft?
Do not speak to store security, loss prevention, or police without an attorney present. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a stealing charge defense lawyer Somerset County. Preserve any evidence that may support your case.
How long does a theft case take in Somerset County?
Timelines vary. A disorderly persons theft case in Municipal Court may resolve in 30-60 days. An indictable theft charge in Superior Court can take 3-12 months or longer, depending on the issues in dispute, evidence, and court scheduling.
Can I get a theft conviction expunged in NJ?
Yes, but waiting periods apply. For a disorderly persons theft conviction, you must wait 2 years after completing your sentence. For an indictable crime (4th degree or higher), the waiting period is 5 years. PTI dismissals can be expunged 6 months after completion.
Related Legal Services in Somerset County
If you are facing related charges, our firm also provides defense for: Criminal Defense in Somerset County, DUI/DWI charges, and Federal Criminal Defense. For statewide information, visit our New Jersey Criminal Defense hub.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Somerset 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 Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, 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 Somerset 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: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory.