
The definition of arson is often misconstrued and misunderstood. Arson can take place in many different forms including the burning of your own property. To be charged with arson you must have intentionally damaged property by burning it or setting it on fire.
Generally this occurs with buildings or structured property, but arson also includes forestland or any type of public property. Arson can also come about after reckless acts. Typically, arson involves intentional fires but it can also involve reckless behavior that results in damaged property by fire.
Regardless of the specific offense that led to the arson charges, you need to team up with a skilled Hartford criminal lawyer to defend against the charges. Carlson & Dumeer, LLC can help you create a hard-hitting defense and fight to avoid serious penalties.
Arson is generally charged as a felony but the type of felony depends on the degree of the arson offense. These offenses are broken down into first, second and third degree arson in the Connecticut Code Section 53a- (111-113).
The actions involved in each degree of offense include:
Just as the offenses are categorized by the specific offense, the penalties will also vary by offense. The degree of arson directly relates to the charges that the defendant is facing.
Feel free to look at the Connecticut Penal Code Title 53a of the general statutes to learn more about the offenses and penalties. The breakdown of charges and potential penalties is as follows:
The penalties could increase above a Class A felony if there was a death involved in the arson offense. If murder takes place either intentionally or unintentionally, the defendant could be facing life in prison for the offense.
Are you facing arson charges in Connecticut? You are at risk of prison time and serious fines. You need to team up with an experienced Hartford criminal defense lawyer. Our Hartford criminal attorneys have years of experience and are familiar with the criminal proceedings involved in arson cases.
Have knowledge on your side by teaming up with the attorneys at our firm!
Contact Carlson & Dumeer, LLC if you are interested in scheduling a free case evaluation and discussing your case with a skilled arson attorney.