Los Angeles Arson Defense Attorney
If you or someone you know is under investigation or has been arrested for arson, it is essential that you consult a defense lawyer immediately. Arson charges are serious and in California carry severe penalties if convicted. By consulting a lawyer early on, you can get a clear understanding of what your rights are and will have the protection of a qualified legal professional who can help you during police questioning and throughout the investigation and prosecution.
Arson is defined under California Penal Code section 451. Under this statue, it is illegal not only to commit arson but also to help, assist or aid another in an act of arson. Arson is the act of intentionally and maliciously setting fire to property, land, business or a residential dwelling. Setting fire to your own property is also illegal, when the intent is to commit insurance fraud.
Los Angeles Arson Defense Attorney Robert M. Bernstein can offer you a free consultation if you are facing any type of arson charge. There are various serious penalties you may face, and Attorney Bernstein and his staff will work diligently to defend your rights and freedom at every step of the criminal process.
Penalties for Arson Charges in California
To avoid the harsh penalties following an arson conviction, you will need an aggressive and competent defense lawyer on your side. Make no mistake that the skill of your lawyer will make a big difference in the actual sentencing you face, not to mention the outcome of your trial.
Penalties for arson in California are the following:
- Arson causing great bodily injury: 5, 7 or 9 years in state prison
- Arson of an inhabited dwelling: 3, 5 or 8 years in state prison
- Arson of an uninhabited structure or forest land: 2, 4 or 6 years in state prison
- Setting fire to another person’s property: 16 months, 2 years or 3 years in prison
Additional penalties may be enforced, as follows:
- Previous arson violation: additional 3, 4 or 5 years
- Great bodily injury to a peace officer or firefighter: additional 3, 4 or 5 years
- Multiple structures were burned: additional 3, 4 or 5 years
If you or someone you know is under investigation or has been arrested for arson Contact Los Angeles Defense Attorney Robert M. Bernstein today!