Arson Defense Lawyer in Phoenix, AZ
Understanding Charges of Arson
The FBI defines arson as "any willful or malicious burning or attempt to burn, with or without intent to defraud, a dwelling house, public building, motor vehicle or aircraft, personal property of another, etc."
What is Arson?
Arson is a criminal offense that involves intentionally setting fire to property or structures. It is considered a serious crime due to the potential danger it poses to people's lives, property, and the surrounding environment. Arson can be committed for various reasons, including vandalism, insurance fraud, revenge, or as an act of terrorism.
First Degree Arson
Committing the crime of arson is a violation of Arizona statutes which is found in the Arizona Revised Statutes 13-1700, which includes any related type of arson crime. Arson covers a multitude of crimes such as starting a fire to hide a criminal offense or for profit, or burning a car for insurance proceeds. First degree arson is where the fire causes serious injury or death of one or more people and severe damage to the building itself.
In extreme cases, the convicted arsonist will face the death penalty for a first degree arson charge. Second degree arson is when significant damage is done to the burnt property and it is probably beyond repair and will requirement demolition and restructuring. The smallest offense is known as misdemeanor arson which describes minimal damages and destruction of property and, this type of charge is comparable to criminal mischief.
What Penalties a Convict May Face
Arson is a serious crime, causing structural or environmental damage and possibly even injuries to others, including firefighters. When someone sustains an injury during the commission or act of arson, the penalties for the crime will be increased significantly. An arson conviction can lead to years in jail, as well as monetary penalties and even possible restitution for damages rendered. This is considered to be a class 4 felony which is punishable for up to 2.5 years in prison and $2,500 in fines. If you are charged with arson of an occupied structure, then you may be facing a stricter sentence categorized as a class 2 felony which is punishable for up to five years in prison.
Being charged with a criminal offense is not a matter that should be taken lightly. When facing arson charges, it is crucial that you retain the services of an experienced Phoenix arson attorney to protect your constitutional rights. Arson is a crime that angers many people, and is seen as taboo in the eyes of the law.
Law enforcement officials will conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and work to gather up exaggerated evidence to use against you in court. Unless you have someone safeguarding your rights, you could risk being convicted and spend precious years of your life and time away from your family, sitting behind bars. Your arson defense attorney will need to aggressively examine every piece of evidence being used to charge you and mount a compelling defense, specifically designed to fit the needs of your case.
Looking for Arson Defense In Phoenix?
Most individuals have never faced this type of legal situation before and hope to never encounter one again. You may be anxious and confused as to what actions you should be taking to handle your situation and you don’t know who to turn to.
Attorney Knowles will provide you with individual attention and time to discuss your options in order to develop an effective plan of defense. By putting your trust in Knowles Law Firm, PLC, you have taken the first step in fighting for your freedom. With their extensive experience in criminal law, the elite legal team will relentlessly defend you in court and fight for your civil rights.
With the gravity of arson charges, don't delay in retaining a qualified arson defense lawyer, so contact Knowles Law Firm, PLC today.
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