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Arson

Columbus Arson Defense Lawyer

Accused of Committing Arson? Call (614) 707-4239

People set fires for different reasons. Some cases of arson are related to a structure fire with the intent of defrauding an insurance company, or are the result of a campfire that has gone out of control. If you intentionally and without consent set fire to any structure or cause an explosion to that structure, you will be in violation of the Ohio Revised Code, Chapter 2909: Arson and Related Offenses, and face charges for committing arson. Included in the category of property:

  • Forests
  • Parks
  • Wildlands
  • Private dwellings
  • Commercial structures
  • Any buildings that are government run and for public purposes

It does not have to be against real property, it can also be an offense against personal property like a car, boat, or truck. The crime increases in scope when the fire or explosion causes serious physical harm to another person or to an occupied structure. You can benefit from getting help from an experienced Columbus arson defense attorney. The attorneys at The Meranda Law Firm have more than 15 years of experience in criminal defense and know the degrees of this type of crime and the potential related penalties.

Penalties for Misdemeanor and Felony Arson in Ohio

In the instance of an act of arson causing less than $1,000 in property damage and no injuries to others, then it would likely be a misdemeanor charge provided, it is not a repeat offense. If the value of the property damage was $1,000 or more then the offense becomes a 4th degree felony with increased punishments. A sentence following a conviction can lead to any of the following:

  • Time in jail
  • Fines
  • Probation
  • Community service
  • Counseling
  • Other penalties

Defending Aggravated Arson Charges in Columbus, OH

Under certain circumstances, arson may be escalated to the serious crime of aggravated arson. When an occupied building is set on fire, it places the people at substantial risk of serious physical harm. It carries a 2nd degree felony charge and a possible sentence of 2-8 years imprisonment with a maximum $15,000 in fines. If the arsonist creates a situation that causes severe injuries or deaths then the allegations may change to a 1st degree felony and if guilty, the sentence can mean 3-10 years in prison with fines up to $20,000. Any emergency responders, firefighters, police officers, and others called to the scene are all potential victims. If the explosion or fire was set on purpose and it takes a human life, then the charges may grow to 1st degree murder, in addition to other accusations.

To discuss your options for a legal defense against arson charges, call The Meranda Law Firm LTD. 
Free confidential initial consultation available.

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Have Questions?

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  • Should I be worried if I am innocent?
    The short answer to this question is yes. Our legal system, though endowed with powerful rights and time-tested procedures, is far from perfect. Proclaiming yourself innocent is far from a legal defense, and you will need the assistance of an experienced attorney to gather information and refute evidence. It is a sad fact that innocent people are sometimes convicted of crimes they did not commit. If you have been arrested, a team member from The Meranda Law Firm LTD, serving both Columbus and Newark, can go to immediate work on constructing a strong defense and on seeking to have unfounded charges dropped.
  • What important legal rights am I entitled to?
    If you find yourself crossways with the law, you have important rights that must be protected. First, you have the right to be informed of your rights by police should you be arrested. You have the right to remain silent, which can help you avoid self-incrimination. You also have the right to avoid subjection to an unreasonable search and seizure. Perhaps most importantly is your right to an attorney, and should you face criminal investigation or arrest, you should be in immediate contact with a Columbus criminal defense attorney for knowledgeable and skilled legal counsel.
  • Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?
    When you are facing a criminal charge, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, your future stands at serious risk. Not only do you face the prospect of jail time, fines, and probation, but if you are convicted you will also carry with you a permanent criminal record that can make such things as obtaining employment, educational opportunities and housing problematic. A lawyer can make sure that your legal rights are well-protected and that a strong defense is mounted on your behalf. Going it alone in the criminal justice system can put you in peril of many unwanted consequences.