Utah Criminal Defense Attorney for Arson
Under the Utah criminal code, arson is a serious felony charge. Even something intended as a prank, such as lighting a garbage can on fire, is a crime that can result in a lengthy prison sentence and thousands of dollars in fines.
If you are facing criminal prosecution for arson or other crimes, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can make all the difference.
The best defense attorneys challenge the status quo through ethical advocacy both in and out of the courtroom.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
Elements of a Criminal Arson Charge in Utah
Arson Criminal Defense Attorney Salt Lake City Utah A typical criminal arson charge in Utah involves intentional damage to property be means of fire or explosives. Most arson cases will involve damage or destruction of property belonging to another person. However, the crime of arson can also ge charged if a person damages or destroys his own property with the intent to commit insurance fraud.
Consequences for an Arson Conviction in Utah
The severity of a Utah arson charge can depend on a number of factors, including the following: the value of the damage caused by the fire or explosion; whether human life was endangered or caused injury; whether the defendant has a prior conviction for; and whether the arson was committed for the purpose of defrauding an insurance company. An ordinary arson charge is punishable by up to 15 years in prison with a fine and surcharge of almost $20,000. A charge of aggravated arson is punishable as a first degree felony, and carries a potential sentence of life in prison.
The best attorneys understand your case involves more than just what happens in court.
Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Attorney
Defending against a criminal charge involves more than just reading police reports. The process of determining whether a fire was accidentally or intentionally set can require expert analysis of complex data and findings. There may be disputes over who was present when the fire began, how the fire began, who is responsible for the fire, and much more.
If you are facing criminal prosecution for arson or any other criminal offense, you need an experienced Utah criminal defense lawyer on your side. Contact us now to see what the right attorney can do for you.
