Arson

Arson is defined as the criminal act of intentionally setting fire to a dwelling, forest land or personal property. Arson may be committed with the intention of committing fraud, such as insurance fraud, or may be done with malicious intent. It may also be committed in an attempt to cover up another crime, such as murder.

The severity of arson charges will vary depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the event, whether it is charged as a federal crime, and the jurisdiction. First degree arson, the most serious form of the offense, may be charged if the defendant is accused of seriously injuring or causing the death of another person in the fire or explosion. Second degree arson may be charged against a defendant accused of significant property destruction. Arson may also be charged as a misdemeanor such as "destruction of property", when no one is injured and only minor property damage results. Talking to a lawyer is a good way to find out what you may be up against if you or someone you know has been accused of or charged with arson. Involving a criminal defense attorney can also give you a head start in avoiding a conviction or even formal charges in the first place.

Consequences of an Arson Conviction

Depending upon what was destroyed, whether anyone suffered bodily injury or death, and a number of other factors, penalties for arson may include county jail or state prison time. Enhanced penalties may apply if the defendant has been convicted of arson in the past. This crime is most often charged as a felony offense, but specific charges and penalties will vary depending upon which state the crime was committed in.