Theft Lawyer Union County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Theft in Union County is prosecuted under N.J.S.A. Title 2C and can range from a disorderly persons offense to a serious indictable crime. A conviction can lead to jail, fines, and a permanent record. As a theft lawyer Union 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: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Theft, or larceny, is defined under the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3). The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property and the circumstances of the alleged act. A larceny defense lawyer Union County must understand these gradations to build an effective case. Theft can be classified as a disorderly persons offense (misdemeanor equivalent) or an indictable crime (felony equivalent).
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the New Jersey theft statutes (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3). Court procedures are handled by the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage in Elizabeth.
Defending Theft Charges in Union County Court
Union County Municipal Court handles disorderly persons theft cases, while the Superior Court Criminal Division handles all indictable offenses. New Jersey’s bail reform means pretrial release is based on a risk assessment, not cash. A stealing charge defense lawyer Union County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence regarding the value of the property or the intent to permanently deprive the owner.
- Secure immediate legal representation after an arrest or summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports and evidence.
- We will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or diversion program like PTI.
- If necessary, we will prepare a strong defense for trial in the appropriate Union County court.
Potential Penalties for Theft in New Jersey
In Union County, theft penalties vary widely based on the degree of the crime, from fines and probation for a disorderly persons offense to years in state prison for a first-degree indictable crime.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft (Under $200) | Disorderly Persons | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | None | Criminal Record |
| Theft ($200 – $500) | 4th Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony Record, Restitution |
| Theft ($500 – $75,000) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | None | Felony Record, Restitution |
| Theft (Over $75,000) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | None | Felony Record, Restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the local procedures at the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth and are committed to providing a vigorous defense.
Case Experience in Union County
While specific local case counts are not published, SRIS actively practices in Union County. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our experience includes defending against theft, shoplifting, and other larceny charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft Defense Lawyer Near Union County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Union County, including Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Route 22, and I-78.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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
Does New Jersey have cash bail for theft charges?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in 2017. Pretrial release in Union County is determined by a Public Safety Assessment risk score, not money.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for a theft charge in Union County?
PTI is a diversion program for first-time indictable offenders. Successful completion of 1-3 years of supervision results in a complete dismissal of the theft charges.
Can I get a theft conviction expunged in NJ?
Yes. NJ allows expungement after waiting periods: 5 years for indictable crimes, 2 years for disorderly persons offenses. The Clean Slate law has expanded eligibility.
What is a disorderly persons offense for theft?
It is NJ’s equivalent of a misdemeanor, typically for theft under $200, carrying up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. These cases are heard in Superior Court.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of theft?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Politely decline to answer questions and request to speak with a theft lawyer Union County immediately.
If you need a larceny defense lawyer Union County or a stealing charge defense lawyer Union County, contact us for a consultation. We also assist with related matters like DUI defense in Union County and family law in Union County. For a broader view, see our New Jersey criminal defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Union 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 Union County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage (12th Vicinage), 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07207, telephone (908) 787-1650, 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 Union 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: Union County NJ lawyers directory · Theft Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Theft Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Theft Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.