Arson Defense Lawyer Shakopee, MN
Arson is defined as the act of internally and unlawfully destroying personal property or a building through explosives or fire. How serious the arson charges are depends on the type of property that was burned and whether or not there were people in a structure at the time it was set on fire. Even a detail as small as whether or not accelerant was used can enhance an arson charge. Other factors that influence the severity of the charges include how much damage occurred and whether or not negligence was the cause of the fire.
If you or a loved one has been accused of arson, calling a criminal defense attorney immediately will result in work beginning on your case as soon as possible. Your rights will be protected, you will be given sound advice, and your interests will come first. Even if you are guilty, people make mistakes and there may be facts in the case that could result in reduced charges.
Helping You Understand The Charges
Your attorney will look at the facts of your case and determine what really happened. It doesn’t matter what level of arson you are charged with, you will receive the best possible defense. The different levels of arson include:
- Arson in the First Degree through Fifth Degree, with First Degree being the most serious
- Wildfire Arson
- Negligent Fires
If charged with Arson in the First Degree, it is because one of the following are believed to have occurred:
- A dwelling was set fire, whether anyone was inside the dwelling or not.
- A building other than a dwelling was set fire and there was a reasonable chance that a person could have been inside or someone was inside
- The building was not a dwelling, but accelerant was used to start or speed up the fire.
All of these are felonies that can result in up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $35,000. Arson in the Second Degree can result in up to 10 years in prison and $20,000 in fines, Third degree can result in fines of up to $10,000 and five years in prison. Fourth Degree can result in up to $3,000 in fines and one year in jail. Fifth Degree can result in a $1,000 fine and up to 90 days in jail. Wildfire Arson can result in a $10,000 fine and up to 5 years in prison. Negligent fires involve negligent actions that lead to an out-of-control fire that causes injury or property damage.
Innovative Arson Defense
Your Minnesota criminal lawyer will work hard to have charges reduced or even dismissed. That is why you should not face the charges on your own. Instead, you can effectively fight them and obtain an outcome that will allow you to move on past the entire matter.
Contact A Scott County Criminal Defense Attorney
Arson is a crime that damages property, is dangerous to the surrounding area, and it can even result in injuries to people. If you or a loved one has been charged with arson, the charges are very serious. It is imperative to seek the representation of an experienced defense attorney who can fight on your behalf for the best possible outcome in the case. To learn more about your rights and options, call Langemo Law at 952-556-0056 to schedule a free consultation.