Baton Rouge Arson Attorneys
Protecting Your Rights in Complex Arson Investigations
If you have been charged with an arson crime, you must seek legal representation immediately. An arson conviction can have devastating consequences, including being ordered to serve jail or prison time and a permanent criminal record.
Our Louisiana arson attorneys are dedicated to helping you navigate the legal complexities involved in building a solid defense tailored to your specific case and safeguarding your constitutional rights.
How Are Arson Crimes Charged in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, arson crimes are divided into different charges based on the specific facts and circumstances of the case. Individuals may face charges if they intentionally set fire to a building, structure, or another person’s property.
Some of the most common arson charges include:
- Arson With Intent to Defraud: Setting fire or using an explosive to damage or destroy a building with the intention of defrauding the insurance company.
- Simple Arson: Intentionally using an explosive or setting fire to any property without the owner’s consent, or committing an act of arson while engaged in another felony offense.
- Aggravated Arson: An individual sets fire or uses an explosive to intentionally damage or destroy a structure when it is foreseeable that the act could endanger human life.
- Negligent Arson: Occurs when a person damages or destroys a structure as a result of criminal negligence.
What are the Criminal Penalties for an Arson Conviction?
Criminal penalties for an arson conviction vary depending on the charges. While some arson charges are misdemeanors, others are felonies. If convicted of a felony, you could be ordered to serve a lengthy prison sentence.
Examples of felony criminal charges include arson with intent to defraud and aggravated arson. Arson with intent to defraud is punishable by up to five years in prison, with or without hard labor or a fine of up to $10,000.
If you are convicted of aggravated arson, you could be sentenced to six to 20 years at hard labor and be ordered to pay steep fines. At least two years of the sentence must be served without parole, probation, or a suspended sentence.
Contact Our Baton Rouge Arson Attorneys Today
Big River Trial Attorneys is a law firm committed to helping clients navigate the criminal justice process. Regardless of the arson charges you are facing, it is in your best interests to hire an attorney who will fight aggressively for your rights and freedom.
If you have been charged with a crime and would like to discuss your case with an experienced Louisiana criminal defense attorney, call Big River Trial Attorneys at 225-437-2733. We will gladly evaluate your case to determine what legal options best suit your needs.
We regularly handle criminal charges in the following parishes: Ascension Parish, Assumption Parish, East Baton Rouge Parish, East Feliciana Parish, Iberville Parish, Livingston Parish, Pointe Coupee Parish, St. James Parish, St. Helena Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, and West Feliciana Parish.