What You Need to Know About Arson Charges
Arson is defined as the intentional burning of a property, typically in a malicious manner. Arson is a violent crime that is generally treated as a felony. Arson may involve an actual fire, but it can also include damage caused by smoke and explosions. In the past, arson laws typically applied to the property of others, but now arson can also apply to one's own property.
Are you facing arson charges? There is a lot you need to know about these charges and how to fight them in court. The answers to these questions will help you plan your defense.
How Does a Prosecutor Prove Arson?
One of the major components of proving arson is demonstrating that the arson was committed purposefully and maliciously. Arson laws are applied to homes, apartments, commercial businesses, and industrial facilities. If somebody is accused of committing arson on their own property, the prosecutor may provide evidence of potential insurance fraud. This could include insurance documents on top of evidence that you committed the act.
What Are Defenses to Arson?
One potential defense to arson is that the fire was set on accident. Perhaps you forgot to unplug your straight iron or your stove was left on. The prosecutors need to prove that the fire was set intentionally. Of course, there are also other common defenses you can use in court. A mistaken identity would point to somebody else being the culprit. Another defense rests on the idea that the fire resulted from an electrical issue or another freak incident. If a human was not to blame, then no crime was committed.
Are All Arson Charges the Same?
The degrees of arson charges vary from state to state. Some states will have lesser consequences if nobody is injured or if a building had been abandoned, for instance. A building like a school may be different from the burning of an old, unaccompanied home.
What Should You Do If You Face Arson Charges?
Arson comes with a variety of potential punishments. Some people face years in prison, whereas somebody who commits arson that results in death may face felony murder. This means they could spend the rest of their life behind bars.
If you face arson charges, you need a criminal defense attorney. Your attorney helps you determine how serious the charges are and what you can do to protect yourself. Make an appointment today to discuss your case.
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