While arson is a serious charge in any state, California’s laws regarding this crime are extremely strict given the area’s history with massive wildfires. All arson charges are serious felonies, but the type and severity of potential punishment for these crimes will vary based on intention, location and whether or not anyone was injured. If you are convicted of arson, you will receive a strike on your record that will be used against you if you are ever charged with a crime in the future.
Arson cases are investigated by special police units and insurance investigators. Both groups will collect as much evidence as possible so they can establish the motive of the suspected arsonist so they can learn if the crime was committed to hide evidence, to get revenge against another person, to commit insurance fraud or for another other purpose.
Even accidental fires can result in arson charges if they were caused by reckless activity. If someone is gravely injured due to a blaze you caused by recklessness, you could receive a prison sentence for up to six years in prison.
Because so many other crimes, such as murder, fraud and domestic abuse, can be committed along with the act of arson, fires that may have been started intentionally will be thoroughly investigated, sometimes over the course of multiple years. Depending on the specific circumstances of the case, those charged with arson may be facing up to nine years in prison. That is why it is so important that anyone accused of arson immediately contact my office as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected during the investigation and trial process.
As a skilled Vista arson attorney with over 25 years of experience, I can help you fight this serious crime by performing an independent investigation on your behalf and by examining the prosecution’s evidence to ensure it has been collected legally.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a free initial consultation, please call (760) 643-4050 today.
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