Theft & Fraud Offenses

How Our Attorneys Can Help You Fight Fraud & Theft Charges in New Jersey

Our attorneys tirelessly represent those charged with crimes. Too often, flaws in the investigative process, bias, and other problems result in charges that never should have been brought. As former prosecutors and public defenders, we understand how cases are built and we understand how to effectively defend against them. If you’ve been charged with a fraud or theft crime, we can fight for you.

If you’ve been arrested, or are facing charges, our attorneys can help in many ways, including:

• We’ll quickly step in to protect you. After a fraud or theft crime charge, an individual is in a dangerous position. Everything that you say to the police can be used against you. Too often, people cooperate with police because they think the police will help clear things up. Sadly, this isn’t the case. Law enforcement is not there to protect you or your rights. They are involved to get a conviction. However, our experienced attorneys work for you and your protection. We advise individuals on their rights and can give the support and guidance they need.
• Our lawyers will work to get you released from jail quickly. In many cases, those charged with fraud or theft crimes may be released on their own recognizance. In others, we’ll work to get bail set at the lowest amount possible. Bail terms are unique to each case and will depend on the charges, the factual circumstances, and prior convictions.
• We’ll keep you in the loop on any developments in your case. After a fraud or theft charge, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Legal proceedings can produce anxiety, and they can be extremely complex. Evidence and charges may change, and there will be many moving pieces to keep track of. Our experienced fraud and theft attorneys can handle everything your case needs and keep you updated on what’s going on.
• We’ll examine the charges and look for any problems with them. Fraud and theft charges may be built on shaky foundations. Incorrectly gathered evidence, questionable interpretations, and false statements are all common problems with these kinds of charges. Our experienced attorneys will review the evidence and look for any discrepancies or problems.
• We’ll fight to get the charges reduced or dismissed. In many cases, prosecutors may bring more severe charges than they can support. In other cases, the charges may be inherently flawed. Our fraud and theft attorneys will work to get charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible. If you decided to pursue a plea bargain, we’ll work with the prosecutors to build one that works for you.
• We’ll effectively and efficiently represent you in court. Court trials are governed by complex rules and procedures. If your case has to go to trial, we’ll prepare a defense strategy, guide you through the process, and prepare any filings that your case needs. At trial, we’ll fight for you. If a conviction still happens, we’ll advocate for the minimum possible punishment and alternative sentencing such as community service.

If you’ve been charged with a fraud or theft crime in Monmouth County, contact our dedicated criminal defense attorneys today. A fraud or theft charge can turn your world upside down and put your plans in danger. An experienced attorney knows what your case means to you and knows how to help. Contact The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall for a free consultation about your best legal options.

Penalties for Theft & Fraud Crimes in New Jersey

In New Jersey there is a wide range of penalties for fraud and theft crimes. Theft charges and their punishments are usually determined by the value of the property that was allegedly stolen:

• Theft of property under $200 may be charged as a disorderly persons offense.
• Theft of property from $200 to $500 may be charged as a fourth-degree offense.
• Theft of more than $500 worth of property but less than $75,000 may be charged as a third-degree offense. Other theft crimes that may qualify as a third-degree offense include theft of controlled substances, theft of motor vehicles, theft taken by threat, or by many other conditions.
• Theft of more than $75,000 is considered a second-degree offense in New Jersey. Theft may also qualify as a second-degree offense if it involves large amounts of controlled substances, involves extortion, or meets other criteria.

New Jersey has numerous fraud laws on the books covering everything from false statements to forgery, and credit card fraud to financial fraud. The level of punishment will depend on the amount of property involved and many other characteristics. A fraud and theft lawyer can review your charges and advise on what punishments may apply.

In New Jersey, the following punishments may apply in a fraud or theft case:

• A disorderly persons offense conviction may carry a fine of up to $1,000 and possible jail time up to 6 months.
• A fourth-degree offense conviction may result in up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• A third-degree offense conviction may result in up 3 to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
• A second-degree offense conviction may result in 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000.
• A first-degree offense conviction may result in 10 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $200,000.
• Restitution by the convicted to the alleged victim. The convicted person is typically required to pay back the value of the property taken.

It’s also important to note that any conviction will remain on your record well into the future. This can cause significant employment problems and can hurt everything you’ve planned for the future. If you’ve been charged, our fraud and theft criminal defense lawyer scan review your case and work to get the charges reduced or even dismissed.

Common Defenses to Theft & Fraud Charges in New Jersey

In fraud and theft cases, there may be defenses available including:

• Police or individuals cannot prove ownership of the allegedly stolen property.
• Prosecutors cannot prove the accused possessed the property.
• The property was returned to the owner.
• Legal pre-existing claims to the property render the charges moot.
• Lack of knowledge or requisite intent to commit a specific crime.
• Incorrectly or inappropriately valued property.
• The accused was entrapped by law enforcement.

These and other defenses may apply in your case. If you have questions, contact our fraud and theft defense attorneys today.

Types of Fraud & Theft Defense Cases We Handle

The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall defends clients across a wide range of fraud and theft charges, including:

• Credit card fraud. Credit card fraud can involve lying on credit applications, misrepresenting facts, and using deceit for illegal financial gain. Credit card fraud can also involve taking someone else’s credit card information and using it for personal gain.
• Theft by deception. Phone and internet scams are examples of theft by deception. In this charge, individuals use lies and deceit to get property or valuable information from another. This charge may also apply if an individual uses deception to block another from getting essential information about a transaction.
• Theft of movable property. Theft of movable property is a common charge in New Jersey. If you’re facing a theft of movable property charge, our lawyers can help you understand what you’re being charged with and what potential punishments may apply, as well as your legal options for defense.
• Forgery. Forgery occurs when someone drafts or modifies a document or signature without permission. Forgery is usually done as part of a larger fraud or scheme. However, in many cases, forgery may be the result of a misunderstanding.
• Burglary. Burglary is when an individual enters someone else’s building or remains there without permission and with the intent of committing a crime. Burglary is often charged as a third-degree offense. However, if a weapon is involved, or another person is recklessly or intentionally harmed, the crime may be charged as a second-degree offense.
• Shoplifting. Shoplifting is a common charge in New Jersey, and the penalty will depend on the value of property taken. Shoplifters may be required to compensate store owners for their merchandise and legal costs.
• Robbery. Robbery is a type of theft that involves threats of violence or force. Robbery carries severe consequences and is usually charged as a second-degree offense.
• Prescription forgery. It’s illegal to forge a prescription in New Jersey. Those facing a prescription forgery charge may face the punishment of a third-degree offense.
• Receiving stolen property. When someone receives property they know is stolen or believes is probably stolen, they may be charged with a crime. The level of offense will depend on the value of the property and other considerations.
• Obtaining CDS by fraud. When individuals try to obtain controlled substances by fraud, such as prescription medications, they may be charged with a third-degree offense.
• Bad checks. Passing bad checks is a crime where the punishment depends on the amount of money in question. To pass a bad check, an individual must know that the check would not be honored by the bank or other financial institution. In many cases there may be defenses when those accused of passing bad checks lack the required knowledge or intent.
• Bail jumping. Bail jumping happens when someone on bail fails to show up for legally required court appointments. A lawyer can examine the facts and help you determine any potential defenses.
• Embezzlement. Embezzlement occurs when someone with legal control over money takes the money for their own benefit. An embezzlement charge is a serious one that can lead to fines, jail time, and restitution.
• Money laundering. Money laundering involves the transportation or possession of money from illegal activities, or that a reasonable person would know is from illegal activities. Money laundering is a significant charge and the punishment scales based on the amount of money involved.
• Identity theft. Identity theft is the theft of another person’s identifying information or use of that information without another’s permission. The punishment can range from a disorderly persons charge to a second-degree charge, depending on the information and amounts of money involved.
• Car theft. Charges of car theft can lead to fines and suspension of an individual’s license. It can also be charged as a fourth-degree offense.

Get Help from Experienced Monmouth County Fraud & Theft Defense Lawyers

At The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, we fight fraud and theft charges. Our dedicated attorneys have decades of experience representing those charged with crimes. We’re focused on helping you. We’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to defend you and fight for your rights.

If you’ve been charged with a fraud or theft crime in New Jersey, contact us online or call us now.