Theft Crime Defense Attorneys in New York & New Jersey
Charged with Theft? Protect Your Record, Reputation, and Freedom.
Theft crimes cover a wide range of offenses — from shoplifting to large-scale larceny schemes. Both New York and New Jersey treat theft seriously, and the penalties depend on the value of the property, the method of the alleged theft, and whether aggravating factors such as weapons or threats were involved. A conviction can bring jail or prison time, heavy fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record for dishonesty that can harm future employment, housing, or licensing opportunities.
Common Types of Theft Offenses
- Shoplifting / Petit Theft
- Grand Larceny (high-value property or cash)
- Burglary or Breaking & Entering
- Robbery (theft involving force or threats)
- Auto Theft / Carjacking
- Theft by Deception or Fraudulent Schemes
- Possession of Stolen Property
- Employee or Business Theft
Theft Laws in New York
New York prosecutes theft under Penal Law Article 155 (Larceny). Charges are classified by the value of the property:
- Petit Larceny (Class A Misdemeanor): Under $1,000; up to 1 year in jail.
- Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree (Class E Felony): $1,000–$3,000; up to 4 years in prison.
- Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (Class D Felony): $3,000–$50,000; up to 7 years.
- Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (Class C Felony): $50,000–$1 million; up to 15 years.
- Grand Larceny in the First Degree (Class B Felony): Over $1 million; up to 25 years.
Robbery, burglary, and possession of stolen property are charged under separate statutes but carry similarly severe penalties.
Theft Laws in New Jersey
New Jersey defines theft under N.J.S.A. §2C:20, with penalties based on property value and circumstances:
- Disorderly Persons Offense: Property under $200; up to 6 months in jail.
- Fourth-Degree Crime: $200–$500; up to 18 months in prison.
- Third-Degree Crime: $500–$75,000; 3–5 years in prison.
- Second-Degree Crime: Over $75,000; 5–10 years in prison.
Robbery, burglary, auto theft, and receiving stolen property carry enhanced penalties, especially if weapons or violence are involved.
Collateral Consequences of a Theft Conviction
- A permanent record for crimes of dishonesty, which employers, landlords, and licensing boards take seriously
- Restitution orders requiring repayment to victims
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Civil lawsuits for damages in addition to criminal penalties
Defense Strategies
Defenses to theft charges may include:
- Lack of Intent: Proving the property was not taken with intent to permanently deprive the owner.
- Mistaken Identity: Contesting whether the defendant was the person who committed the crime.
- Ownership or Rightful Claim: Showing a good-faith belief the property belonged to the defendant.
- Insufficient Evidence: Challenging weak or circumstantial proof.
- Constitutional Violations: Suppressing evidence obtained through unlawful searches, seizures, or interrogations.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Prosecutors in both New York and New Jersey treat theft seriously — even “minor” shoplifting cases can create lasting consequences. Larger theft cases, such as grand larceny or robbery, are aggressively pursued and often carry years in prison. An experienced theft defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate reduced charges, and fight for dismissal or acquittal when possible.
