That depends on the amount taken. For all shoplifting offenses the penalty/fine is double what the amount taken was or the amount listed below whichever is greater:
For amounts taken up to $200.00 the fine is up to $1000.00
For amounts taken over $200.00 up to $500.00 the fine is up to $10,000.00
For amounts taken from $500.01 to $75,000.00 the fine is up to $15,000.00
For amounts taken over $75,000.01 the fine is up to $150,000.00

Yes, but the sooner you start your shoplifting defense, the more chances you have to get the best result. The wost thing you can do is to sit home and think about it or cry. Every day you wait to start your defense, the harder it is to

No Attorney by law can guarantee a result and it is ultimately up to the judge in your case, but Attorney H. Scott Aalsberg the head of our firm has a 98%* Success rate of winning, reducing or eliminating the penalties for a shoplifting case so his record does speak for itself. Our associate or per-diem lawyers do have a lower success rate but all of them are experienced in handling shoplifting matters

Yes, but having the best shoplifting lawyer will help you reduce this chance. Obviously a judge will consider the facts of your case, such as: whether the shoplifting was accidental or purposeful, whether you have any prior criminal record and the amount that was taken in regards to whether it was one item or multiple items. Lastly the judge will look at the type of item taken. Obviously some who stole jewelry will be treated differently than someone who had a hungry baby at home and stole infant formula.

No, you never need a lawyer to go to court and you can represent yourself but statistically the people who go to jail the most are 1) those that represent themselves and 2) people who use the services of a public defender, don't become a shoplifting statistic. Your first court date is the first time the judge will see you and you want to make the best impression. If you want to win you should have an experienced shoplifting lawyer with you from day one.

The Answer is it depend and you should come in to our office and speak with one of our Shoplifting Lawyers. For example, If your shoplifting charge occurred in Woodbridge New Jersey, Freehold NJ, Edgewater NJ or Paramus NJ these police departments commonly will mail you the shoplifting complaint and may or may not be arrested at the scene. This is because these particular courts have a large number of shoplifting cases and the police are back logged from 1 to 4 weeks for non-violent crimes. Because shoplifting is classified as non-violent crime, stores in these towns will generally just tell you that you will receive a court date or notice in the mail. BUT don't wait until you get your court date for your shoplifting charge as this time can be used to develop the best defense for you. Call <a href="tel:+18009RIGHTS">800-9-RIGHTS</a> now to setup your free in office consultation.

if ordered by the judge, some common orders include: You are not to shop at a certain stores, you are not to frequent certain areas such as within 500 feet of a school etc.