Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed February 26, 2018
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
When a car is left running and unattended, or a spare key is left near the vehicle, then it could be very tempting for a thief to make a move. If you give in to temptation and and steal a car, you could be facing charges for violating auto theft laws.
In New Jersey the actual charges for auto theft are covered under the state's theft laws because the state doesn't have a separate statute for stealing a motor vehicle. However, the state does impose specific penalties when someone is convicted of auto theft or the unlawful taking of a car. Any person convicted of these crimes can be fined separately from the theft-associated fines. Additionally, the perpetrator's driving privileges may be suspended for up to 10 years.
The chart below provides a summary of statutes related to New Jersey's auto theft laws, including links to important code sections.
Statutes |
|
Penalties and Sentencing |
Theft of a motor vehicle:
Use of juvenile in auto theft: A person who is at least 18 years old who uses, solicits, hires or employs a person who is 17 years or younger to commit auto theft is guilty of a crime in the second degree. Leader of an auto theft trafficking network: A person who conspires with others as a supervisor/organizer/financier or manager to engage in profit in a scheme to unlawfully take/dispose of distribute or transport stolen automobiles is guilty of a crime in the second degree. The court may impose a fine up to $250,000 or 5x the retail value of the cars, whichever is greater. |
Possible Defenses |
|
Related Offenses |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
If you've been accused of auto theft in New Jersey, then you'll likely want to get help from an attorney who can mount a strategically sound defense on your behalf. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney located near you.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many New Jersey attorneys offer free consultations.