Arson

Gainesville Arson Defense Attorneys

Arson is the deliberate and malevolent burning or charring of a structure or property. Arson laws have been expanded to include the destructive burning of commercial property, forest land, boats, and even personal property. Even if you burn your own building — for the purpose of insurance fraud or otherwise — you could still be charged with arson. If you have been arrested for arson, the knowledgeable attorneys at DeCarlis & Sawyer can help.

Degrees of Arson

Florida has different degrees of arson: first-degree and second-degree arson. The determining factor between the degrees is the type of structure that was damaged or destroyed. Damage to any kind of residence is considered first-degree arson, while damage to any other structure or building is considered second-degree arson.

The penalty for first-degree arson is up to 30 years in prison, and the penalty for second-degree arson is up to 15 years in prison.

The defendant may also be susceptible to additional charges on top of the crime of arson. Additional charges could include:

• Falsely reporting a bomb
• Making or attempting to make a bomb
• Threatening to discharge a bomb
• Discharging a bomb
• Setting fire to defraud an insurance company

Obtain Quality Legal Advice

Being charged with arson can have significant, life-changing consequences. If you or a loved one have been charged with arson, you need a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side to ensure that you do not accrue additional unnecessary charges. The experienced lawyers at DeCarlis & Sawyer will work closely with clients and investigators to build a strong case.

Contact us for a complimentary initial consultation and gain sought-after legal advice. You will not be charged unless one of our attorneys wins your case.