Legal Question in Criminal Law in New Jersey

juvenile shoplifting

My daughter was caught shoplifting. She is 14. The item was worth $30. JC Penney called the police, they took her to the Police department, filled out paperwork and sent her home. The police suggested that we go to JC Penneys and try to pay for the item and penalty and that maybe JC Penney will drop the charges. They also said that she will have to appear in Juvenile court. We don't know what to do and what is best to protect her and her future. It makes me sick to think that she will have a criminal record that will follow her the rest of her life. I think that this experience scared her so much that she will never shoplift again.


Asked on 7/03/07, 12:42 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Jef Henninger, Esq Law Offices of Jef Henninger, Esq.

Re: juvenile shoplifting

With all due respect to the police, I would never trust the advice that they give you. The first thing I suggest you do is consult with an attorney ASAP so that you can get ahead of these charges instead of having to play catch-up. While it may take a few motions and some time, there is a good possiblity that she will not have a criminal record by the time this is over with.

My initial consultations are always free and I practice in every county in New Jersey, so call me at 732/247/3340 to discuss your case.

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Answered on 7/03/07, 1:14 pm
Gary Moore Gary Moore Attorney At Law

Re: juvenile shoplifting

By definition juvenile offenses are not crimes but acts of juvenile delinquency. Also one's juvenile record is not part of the criminal justice computer records and will not appear in a normal criminal record check.

As a first offender she is eligible for first offender treatment which usually means that if she is good for six months or a year the charge is marked dismissed.

Call me if you like.

Gary Moore, Esquire

Hackensack, New Jersey

www.garymooreattorneyatlaw.com

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Answered on 7/03/07, 1:51 pm
Barry Kozyra Kozyra & Hartz, LLC

Re: juvenile shoplifting

You (she) should consult with an attorney (not the police) so that the problem can be minimized.

Juvenile records are to be sealed but there is always a danger that the retailer does not treat the incident as confidential. [We have a lawsuit pending on this subject right now.]

It is important to act quickly.

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Answered on 7/03/07, 2:53 pm


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