Legal Question in Criminal Law in New Jersey
Shoplifting 2c:20-11b2
I am 18 years old. I have no criminal record. I was arrested for shoplifting. The merchandise totaled 15 dollars. I haven't gone to court yet. I was told my the municipal court that it has been sent to superior court because it's an indictable charge. A grand jury will be reviewing the evidence and decide if they can indict me or send it back to municipal court. They said it could take months before I hear anything. Well I got a letter from Walmart's lawyer stating that I have the opportunity to pay the civil penalty of 150 dollars within 20 days. I am not sure if I should just pay it... Aren't I still going to have to deal with the criminal charges for this? Or is this going to be the end of it if I pay the civil penalty? Help! Thanks in advance!
5 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Shoplifting 2c:20-11b2
b. Shoplifting. Shoplifting shall consist of any one or more of the following acts:
(1) For any person purposely to take possession of, carry away, transfer or cause to be carried away or transferred, any merchandise displayed, held, stored or offered for sale by any store or other retail mercantile establishment with the intention of depriving the merchant of the possession, use or benefit of such merchandise or converting the same to the use of such person without paying to the merchant the full retail value thereof.
(2) For any person purposely to conceal upon his person or otherwise any merchandise offered for sale by any store or other retail mercantile establishment with the intention of depriving the merchant of the processes, use or benefit of such merchandise or converting the same to the use of such person without paying to the merchant the value thereof.
To read entire article, go to http://www.njlaws.com/shoplifting.htm
Re: Shoplifting 2c:20-11b2
1. the civil penalty that the store is asking for is NOT instead of criminal charges. It may be worth paying it so the store doesn't sue you, but it will not stop the criminal prosecution.
2. Even though the charge is in superior court now, most prosecutors will downgrade a shoplifting charge that is for such a small amount of money. The charge will then go back to municipal court.
It is a good idea for you to speak directly with an attorney. Cal lme if you like at 877/688/3879
Re: Shoplifting 2c:20-11b2
You have to pay the $150.00 civil penalty and still deal with the criminal issue later.
Sincerely yours, -Ronald Aronds, Esq.-
www.njworkerscompensationlaw.com
Re: Shoplifting 2c:20-11b2
A conviction for shoplifting will seriously reduce your ability to get a good job and to pursue certain careers.
I can help you avoid a conviction for shoplifting.
Call me if you like.
Gary Moore, Esquire
Hackensack, New Jersey
www.garymooreattorneyatlaw.com
Re: Shoplifting 2c:20-11b2
I can't see how this is indictable. Regardless, you should see a good attorney right away to help you. I have four office in NJ and I'd be happy to fight for you. Call me at 732/247/3340 to discuss.
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