At Grace Legal Offices, we understand the seriousness of arson charges and are dedicated to providing our clients with experienced legal representation to mount the best defense possible. Our team is comprised of experienced and knowledgeable lawyers who specialize in defending individuals charged with arson. We serve Camp Hill, Harrisburg, PA, and surrounding areas.
Our attorneys have an extensive understanding of Pennsylvania’s laws related to arson cases and can help you navigate through the complexities that arise when facing such charges and potential prison time. With years of experience representing individuals accused of arson-related crimes, we have developed a successful track record in helping our clients achieve favorable outcomes in their cases
What is Arson?
In Pennsylvania, the crime of arson is defined as intentionally setting fire to a building or structure or causing an explosion that damages or destroys a building or structure. The act of arson can also include attempting to set fire to a building or structure or aiding or conspiring with someone else to commit arson. It also includes:
- Causing an explosion that damages or destroys a building or structure.
- Attempting to set fire to a building or structure, or aiding or conspiring with someone else to commit arson.
- Intentionally damaging or destroying any property using fire or explosives.
Additionally, intentionally damaging or destroying any property through fire or explosives is also considered arson under Pennsylvania law. Arson is considered a serious criminal offense and can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment, and an experienced criminal defense attorney will be necessary for you to defend your rights.
At Grace Legal Offices, our skilled legal team understands the gravity of such charges and are committed to helping our clients, with the assistance of an arson lawyer, get the best possible outcome in their cases. We will put our experience and knowledge to work for you, utilizing all available legal strategies and defenses to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the entire process.
The Consequences of an Arson Conviction in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, arson is charged as a felony offense and the penalties for conviction can be severe. Depending on the degree of the crime and any aggravating factors, an individual may face up to 20 years in prison, hefty fines, and restitution fees. Additionally, a conviction could have long-term repercussions such as loss of employment or housing opportunities.
It is important to contact an experienced arson defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing such charges. At Grace Legal Offices, our attorneys will provide the dedicated legal representation necessary to protect your rights and fight for a favorable outcome in your case. We serve Camp Hill, Harrisburg, PA, and surrounding areas — so contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
Steps to Take After Being Charged With The Crime Of Arson
If you or someone you know has been accused of committing arson, it is important to take the following steps:
- Contact a lawyer immediately. An experienced lawyer can provide advice and guidance throughout the legal process, explain your legal options, and ensure that your rights are protected from start to finish.
- Gather any evidence or documents related to the incident, such as photos, witnesses, and all other records related to the alleged arson fires.
- Discuss the case with your lawyer in detail and provide any information that may be relevant to the situation.
- Remain silent when questioned about the incident until you have spoken with an attorney.
At Grace Legal Offices, we understand the gravity of arson charges and are committed to providing high-quality legal representation for clients facing these allegations. We will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected and seek the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us today for more information about our services and how we can help you with your arson defense needs.
We are here to offer peace of mind during this challenging time and look forward to helping you navigate the legal system.
What Does Prosecution Have To Prove To Get Arson Conviction?
To obtain a conviction for arson in Pennsylvania, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable the following elements under the arson statutes:
- The defendant intentionally set fire to or caused an explosion that damaged or destroyed a building, structure, or property.
- The defendant acted without legal justification or excuse.
- The building, structure, or property was owned by someone else at the time of the fire or explosion.
- The defendant acted with the specific intent to cause damage or destruction to the property.
- The defendant was not authorized to set the fire or cause the explosion, either explicitly or implicitly.
If the prosecution can prove all of these elements beyond a reasonable doubt, then the defendant can be convicted of arson under Pennsylvania law. It’s worth noting that the severity of the offense can depend on the extent of the damage caused by the fire or explosion and the potential risk to human life.
If you need your legal rights protected, contact us now.
Common Defenses Against an Arson Charge in the State of Pennsylvania
At Grace Legal Offices, we believe everyone deserves the benefit of a vigorous defense and will utilize a variety of legal strategies to protect our client’s rights.
Several defenses can be raised by your criminal defense lawyer in Pennsylvania to a charge of arson. Some of the most common defenses in an arson case include:
- Lack of intent: You did not intend to set the fire or cause the explosion, or if the fire was accidental and not caused by the defendant’s actions, they may be able to argue that they lacked the necessary intent to be convicted of arson.
- Lack of ownership: If you owned property that was damaged or destroyed by the fire or explosion, you cannot be convicted of arson. Similarly, if the property was an abandoned building or unoccupied at the time of the fire, the defendant may be able to argue that they did not commit arson because they did not cause harm to someone else’s property.
- Consent or permission: If the owner of the property consented to the defendant’s actions or gave them permission to set the fire or cause the explosion, the defendant may be able to argue that they did not commit arson.
- Alibi: If you can prove that they were not at the scene of the fire or explosion at the time it occurred, they may be able to raise an alibi defense and argue that they could not have committed the crime.
- False accusation: You are being accused of this serious charge but you either had a lawful excuse or are not the person responsible for the fire.
- Insanity or mental incapacity: If you were mentally incapacitated or suffering from a mental illness at the time of the fire or explosion, you may be able to argue that you could not form the necessary intent to be convicted of arson.
Our attorneys have the necessary experience and knowledge to evaluate your case and determine which defense strategy is best suited for your unique circumstances. We will provide thorough guidance, keeping your best interests in mind at all times.
We understand that facing an arson charge can be intimidating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Grace Legal Offices, we are here to help — so contact us today for more information about our services in Camp Hill & Harrisburg, PA. We look forward to providing you with exceptional legal representation and advocating on your behalf.
Factors A Judge Will Consider When Sentencing An Arson Conviction
When determining the sentence for a person convicted of arson in Pennsylvania, a judge will consider a variety of factors. These factors include:
- The extent of the damage caused by the fire – If the fire caused extensive damage, the judge may consider a more severe sentence.
- The defendant’s criminal history – If the defendant has a prior criminal history, especially for similar offenses, the judge may impose a harsher sentence.
- Whether anyone was injured or killed – If anyone was injured or killed as a result of the fire, the judge will likely consider this when imposing a sentence.
- The defendant’s level of involvement in the crime – If the defendant was the mastermind behind the arson or played a significant role in planning or executing the crime, the judge may consider a more severe sentence.
- The defendant’s remorse and willingness to make amends – If the defendant shows genuine remorse for their actions and takes steps to make amends, such as paying restitution to the victims, the judge may take this into account when imposing a sentence.
- Any aggravating or mitigating circumstances – The judge will also consider any other factors that may make the crime more or less serious, such as the defendant’s mental state at the time of the offense, insurance fraud, and any other extenuating circumstances.
Ultimately, the judge’s decision will be based on the specific circumstances of the case and the sentencing guidelines provided by Pennsylvania law.
Grace Legal Offices - Our Arson Defense Lawyer Services
Our attorneys are experienced in defending against charges of arson-related offenses, including but not limited to:
- Setting fire to an occupied building
- Destroying by explosive materials or hazardous substances
- Unlawful burning of personal property
- Willful or malicious burning of any structure
We will work closely with you to develop an effective defense strategy and use our knowledge of Pennsylvania’s arson laws and legal system to fight for a favorable outcome in your case.
An experienced criminal defense lawyer will evaluate the facts of the case and the prosecution case and what has to be done to mount a defense. This includes contacting expert witnesses and examining the property damage regardless of whether it’s a dwelling house or an abandoned building. They will determine if you had an unlawful motive and how to defend against the serious charges.
Contact Grace Legal Offices for Experienced Representation on Your Arson Offense Case
If you are facing arson charges in Pennsylvania, contact the knowledgeable attorneys at Grace Legal Offices for skilled representation. We will provide honest advice and fight for a favorable outcome in your case. Our lawyers are compassionate and understanding of the situation, providing you with peace of mind during this difficult time.
Don’t wait — contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your arson defense needs. We serve Camp Hill & Harrisburg, PA, and surrounding areas and are here to provide the guidance and legal representation necessary for protecting your rights.
If you need your legal rights protected, contact us now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be charged with arson if I didn't start the fire?
Yes, you can be charged with arson in Pennsylvania even if you didn’t start the fire. If you intentionally caused an explosion that damaged or destroyed a building or property, or if you aided or conspired with someone else to commit arson, you can be charged with the crime.
What evidence can the prosecution use against me in an arson case?
The prosecution can use a variety of evidence in an arson case, including physical evidence such as burn patterns and debris analysis, eyewitness testimony, surveillance footage, and any statements made by the defendant.
Can I be convicted of arson if I didn't intend to cause harm?
No, to be convicted of arson in Pennsylvania, the prosecution must prove that you acted with the specific intent to cause damage or destruction to the property. If you didn’t intend to cause harm, you may have a viable defense to the charge.
Should I speak to law enforcement or investigators if I'm suspected of arson?
It is generally not advisable to speak to law enforcement or investigators if you are suspected of arson without first consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it’s important to have an attorney present to protect your rights and interests.
Can I be charged with arson if the fire was accidental or started due to negligence?
No, you cannot be charged with arson in Pennsylvania if the fire was accidental or started due to negligence. Arson requires a deliberate act to cause damage or destruction to property.
Can I be charged with multiple counts of arson if I set multiple fires?
Yes, you can be charged with multiple counts of arson in Pennsylvania if you set multiple fires. Each act of arson is considered a separate offense and can be charged separately.
