Utah Arson Attorney - Utah Criminal Defense Lawyer
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. Stephen Howard is a Utah criminal defense attorney with real experience in defending arson and other crimes. During his career he has handled literally thousands of serious felony charges, with a record of achieving real results. 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. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.Elements of a Criminal Arson Charge in 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.Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Attorney in Utah
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. Stephen Howard is experienced in handling complex criminal defense cases.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 arrange an initial consultation.
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Dismissed - Charges of insurance fraud were brought when investigators found reason to believe that client's claim of injury was fraudulent. Client was seen kicking a soccer ball, and investigators concluded that the injury claim was false. By obtaining medical records and other administrative records, and by pointing out to the prosecutor that the alleged injury interferred with the client's ability to lift - not his ability to kick a ball - the prosecutor agreed to dismiss the case.
Dismissed on Appeal - DUI case was dismissed after a successful appeal where the Utah Court of Appeals reversed the trial court's denial of the defense motion to suppress. Without the suppressed evidence, the prosecutor acknowledged that they did not have sufficient evidence to proceed to trial and the case was dismissed.
Expunged - Client with prior conviction for violent felony was ineligible for expungement through the courts. A successful 2-step reduction restored expungement eligibility and ultimately led to the court's decision to grant the requested expungement.
Not Guilty - Client was charged with second-degree felony residential burglary and facing potential prison time. Investigation by the defense revealed multiple witnesses, missed by police and prosecutors, who supported client's claim of innocence. At trial, the jury returned a "not guilty" verdict on all charges.
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Serving Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Utah, Cache, Tooele, Summit, Box Elder, and Wasatch Counties, and all of Utah.
Attorney Stephen Howard practices as part of the Canyons Law Group, LLC and Stephen W. Howard, PC.
Offices in Salt Lake and Davis Counties
560 South 300 East, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
952 S. Main St., Suite A, Layton, UT 84041
Call now to arrange for a confidential initial consultation with an experienced and effective Utah criminal defense lawyer.
In Salt Lake City, call 801-449-1409.
In Davis County, call 801-923-4345.
Stephen W. Howard, PC
Serving Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Utah, Cache, Tooele, Summit, Box Elder, and Wasatch Counties, and all of Utah.
Offices in Salt Lake and Davis Counties
560 South 300 East, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
952 S. Main St., Suite A, Layton, UT 84041
Call now to arrange for a confidential initial consultation with an experienced and effective Utah criminal defense lawyer.
In Salt Lake City, call 801-449-1409.
In Davis County, call 801-923-4345.
Stephen W. Howard, PC
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