Theft Lawyer Mercer County — Defending Larceny & Stealing Charges
A theft charge in Mercer County, New Jersey, is a serious matter prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2. Theft can range from a disorderly persons offense to a first-degree indictable crime, with penalties from fines to decades in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of larceny, shoplifting, or other stealing charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Theft Law & Penalties
Theft in New Jersey is governed by N.J.S.A. Title 2C, Chapter 20. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property taken and the circumstances of the alleged act. A larceny defense lawyer Mercer County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on value and intent, which are critical to the case’s classification.
| Offense Degree | Property Value / Circumstance | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Persons | Under $200 | Up to 6 months jail, $1,000 fine |
| 4th Degree Crime | $200 – $500 | Up to 18 months prison |
| 3rd Degree Crime | $500 – $75,000 | 3-5 years prison |
| 2nd Degree Crime | Over $75,000; or theft of a firearm, car, or controlled substance | 5-10 years prison |
| 1st Degree Crime | Theft by extortion or through a breach of fiduciary duty | 10-20 years prison |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Court Process for Theft Charges in Mercer County
In Mercer County, disorderly persons theft charges are heard in Municipal Court, while indictable (felony-level) theft charges are handled by the Criminal Division of the Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage at 175 South Broad Street in Trenton. New Jersey’s bail reform means release decisions are based on a risk assessment, not cash. A stealing charge defense lawyer Mercer County can handle this system, from the initial complaint to potential diversion programs like Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for first-time offenders.
- Arrest or Summons: You will receive a complaint-summons or be arrested. Do not discuss the case with anyone but your attorney.
- First Appearance: For indictable charges, this is in Superior Court. The court will review conditions of release.
- Case Management & Discovery: Your attorney will review all evidence, including police reports and surveillance, to build your defense.
- Negotiation or Diversion: Your lawyer may negotiate a plea to a lesser charge or seek PTI, which can lead to dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench or jury trial in Mercer County.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Theft 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. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of New Jersey’s Criminal Justice Reform Act and local Mercer County court practices. We provide “Advocacy Without Borders,” offering clear, strategic defense for clients facing larceny and theft allegations.
Our firm’s documented results include numerous theft and larceny cases resolved favorably through dismissal, reduction of charges, or successful completion of diversion programs. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft Defense Lawyer Near Mercer County, NJ
Our New Jersey location represents clients throughout Mercer County, including Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton Township, Ewing, and Lawrence. We are accessible via I-95, Route 1, and the NJ Turnpike.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Theft Charges in Mercer County
Is shoplifting a felony in New Jersey?
It depends on the value. Shoplifting is charged as theft under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-11. Items valued under $200 are a disorderly persons offense. Over $200, it becomes an indictable crime (4th degree or higher), which is New Jersey’s equivalent of a felony.
Can a first-time theft charge be dismissed in Mercer County?
Yes, first-time offenders charged with an indictable theft crime may be eligible for Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI). Successful completion of this supervisory program results in a complete dismissal of the charges. A larceny defense lawyer Mercer County can file the PTI application and advocate for your acceptance.
What is the difference between theft and robbery in NJ?
Theft involves unlawfully taking property. Robbery (N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1) is theft accomplished by using force or threatening immediate force upon another person. Robbery is always at least a second-degree crime with much more severe penalties, including a presumption of imprisonment.
How does New Jersey’s bail reform affect a theft case?
New Jersey abolished cash bail. At your first appearance after an arrest, a judge will decide on release based on a Public Safety Assessment risk score, not your ability to pay. Conditions may include check-ins or restrictions. A stealing charge defense lawyer Mercer County can argue for the least restrictive release terms.
Can I get a theft conviction expunged in NJ?
Yes, but waiting periods apply: 5 years for an indictable theft conviction, 2 years for a disorderly persons conviction. Eligibility depends on your complete criminal history. New Jersey’s Clean Slate law has expanded expungement opportunities.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby counties like Somerset County and Hunterdon County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services as a DUI lawyer in Mercer County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific case.
Your case in Mercer 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 Mercer County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage (7th Vicinage), 175 South Broad Street, Trenton, NJ 08650, telephone (609) 571-4200, 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 Mercer 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: Mercer County NJ lawyers directory · Theft Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Theft Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Theft Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.