Theft of Government Property Lawyer in Mercer County, NJ — Federal Defense
Theft of government property is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a theft of government property lawyer Mercer County with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for federal property theft charges.
Federal Statute on Theft of Government Property
The federal law governing theft of government property is 18 U.S.C. § 641. This statute makes it a crime to knowingly embezzle, steal, purloin, or knowingly convert to one’s use or the use of another, any record, voucher, money, or thing of value of the United States or of any department or agency thereof. The property does not need to have significant monetary value; even minor items can lead to prosecution. The statute covers a wide range of scenarios, from a contractor overbilling a federal agency to an employee taking office supplies home.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey | Federal Criminal Code
External Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 641 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on the federal court where these cases are heard, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey website.
Defending Against Federal Theft Charges in Mercer County
Federal investigations for theft of government property in Mercer County often involve agencies like the FBI, IRS-CI, or the Office of Inspector General for the relevant federal department. The key local procedural fact is that these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, which has divisions in Newark, Camden, and Trenton. The investigation phase is critical, as federal agents build a case before an arrest or indictment. A strong defense strategy often focuses on challenging the government’s proof of intent, the value of the property, or whether the property was actually government-owned.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: If you are contacted by a federal agent, exercise your right to remain silent and immediately contact a federal property theft defense lawyer Mercer County.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: The prosecutor presents evidence to a federal grand jury. If indicted, you will be formally charged and arraigned in U.S. District Court.
- Pretrial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions to challenge evidence and obtain all discovery from the prosecution to build your defense.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases are resolved by plea agreement. Your lawyer will negotiate for a favorable outcome, which may include a reduced charge or a favorable sentencing recommendation. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, either by plea or trial, the court will impose a sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Potential Penalties for Theft of Government Property
In federal court, theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines, depending on the value of the property involved.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of Property ≤ $1,000 | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Restitution, probation, loss of federal benefits. |
| Theft of Property > $1,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Restitution, forfeiture, permanent criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to federal cases. Our approach, “Advocacy Without Borders,” means we are prepared to defend clients against serious federal allegations. We understand the high stakes and the intricate procedures of the federal system.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across our practice areas. In federal court, a favorable outcome can mean a case dismissal, a not-guilty verdict, a favorable plea agreement that avoids prison time, or a sentence below the federal guidelines.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Mercer County Federal Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing federal charges in Mercer County. We are accessible via I-95, Route 1, and the NJ Turnpike. We provide representation for individuals in Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton Township, Ewing, Lawrence, and surrounding communities.
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) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Theft of Government Property Defense
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
It includes any money, property, or record owned by the U.S. government or any of its agencies. This can range from cash and equipment to data, intellectual property, and even unused office supplies if they are purchased with federal funds.
Do I need a special lawyer for a federal theft charge?
Yes. Federal criminal procedure and sentencing are vastly different from state court. You need a theft of government property lawyer Mercer County with specific experience in federal courts, like those at SRIS, P.C., to handle the demanding process effectively.
What should I do if a federal agent wants to question me?
Politely decline to answer any questions and state that you wish to speak with your attorney. Do not try to explain or talk your way out of it. Contact a government asset theft lawyer Mercer County as early as possible. Anything you say can be used against you.
Can I get probation for a federal theft charge?
It depends. For lower-value property theft, probation may be possible, especially for first-time offenders. For felonies involving property over $1,000, incarceration is more likely, but an experienced attorney can argue for a sentence below the guidelines or for alternative programs.
What is the difference between theft and conversion of government property?
Both are covered under 18 U.S.C. § 641. Theft typically involves taking property without permission. Conversion involves lawfully possessing property but using it in an unauthorized way, such as a contractor using government materials for a private job.
Internal Resources
For more on our federal practice, see our New Jersey Federal Criminal Defense hub page. If you are also facing related state charges, learn about our Mercer County criminal defense services. For other legal needs in the area, we also handle Mercer County business law matters.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. The information provided is for general understanding and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance on your specific situation.
The same rules apply outside Mercer County, and our page on theft of government property charges across New Jersey walks through each stage.
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 of Government Property Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Theft of Government Property Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Theft of Government Property Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.