Philadelphia Arson Defense Lawyer
Arson and Related Charges
Arson is the intentional and malicious burning of a building or other structure. Law enforcement may charge you even if it occurred on your own property or if you enticed another to commit this act. This is a felony of the first degree if it involves an inhabited or occupied building or structure. The same designation applies if the fire or explosion endangers the life of other persons, including firefighters and police officers, or causes bodily injury. If the incident results in the death of another, you can face second degree murder charges . If the intent was to cause death and this was successful, this constitutes first degree murder. A first degree murder conviction can result in a death sentence or life in prison and second degree murder can result in the latter.
The criminal act of arson endangering property is a felony of the second degree if it is committed with the intent of destroying or damaging an unoccupied building or structure. This is a felony of the third degree if the intent to destroy was not present, yet the purposeful starting a fire or explosion was placed structures or property at risk. (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. ยง 3301) If you are charged with an alleged arson, contact a Philadelphia criminal defense attorney for legal advice and guidance to ensure the protection of your rights .
Dedicated Legal Counsel
With over 40 years of combined experience, the lawyers at The Benari Law Group can help to build the best possible defense in your case . It is important you contact us right away, even if you are only under investigation for arson. The sooner we become involved in your case, the more opportunities we have to protect you. It may even be possible to prevent the filing of charges against you or to have charges reduced. Where this is not the case, we will do all we can to aggressively pursue an acquittal.
If you are under investigation for arson, contact a Philadelphia arson defense lawyer immediately.