Arson Attorney In Orange County, CA
Arson is a serious crime that involves deliberately setting fire to a structure, property, or forest land. Because wildfires are such a major concern in California, state prosecutors tend to pursue these cases aggressively. Arson is a felony, and a conviction can lead to up to nine years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and a criminal record.
The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman can provide the compassionate, results-oriented representation you need when facing these charges. In addition to being a respected Orange County arson lawyer with over 20 years of criminal defense experience, Attorney Goodman is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist. She understands how to effectively defend individuals in these and other high-stakes scenarios, and her case results speak for themselves. You will receive tailored attention from beginning to end, and Attorney Goodman will fight hard on your behalf to secure the best possible result.
WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR ARSON IN CALIFORNIA?
Arson is always charged as a felony in California, but the specific punishments you could face will depend on the circumstances and severity of the crime. Arson that is more likely to harm others or inflicts harm on others carries more severe consequences.
Penalties for arson in California can include:
- Up to 3 years of incarceration for arson of personal property
- Up to 6 years of incarceration for arson of a structure or forest land
- Up to 8 years of incarceration for arson of an inhabited structure
- Up to 9 years of incarceration for arson that causes great bodily injury
Reckless burning is a wobbler offense, meaning it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony based on the facts of the case. A conviction for misdemeanor reckless burning can result in up to 6 months of jail time, while felony misdemeanor reckless burning carries a penalty of up to 3 years of prison time.
You do not have to go through the criminal defense process alone. Schedule a confidential consultation by filling out an online contact form or calling 714-879-5770.
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Criminal cases are often complicated. There are two sides to every story, and it is important that the court sees the situation clearly. We can help defend you in your criminal case and make sure your perspective is heard.
WHAT IS CONSIDERED ARSON IN CALIFORNIA?
Intentionally starting a fire does not necessarily constitute arson. The act of setting fire to something only becomes a crime if certain criteria are met.
In California, a person commits arson if they willfully and maliciously set fire to someone else’s structure, property, or forest land. Someone also commits arson if they facilitate the act by seeking, helping, or encouraging someone to burn another party’s structure, property, or forest land.
In many scenarios, you have the right to burn your own property. However, setting fire to your own property becomes arson if the act ends up harming someone else or burning another party’s property. Burning your own property is also a crime if you are doing so with the intent to defraud someone. For example, burning down a structure for purposes of insurance fraud is considered arson under California law.
You cannot be convicted of arson if you did not intentionally and maliciously set fire to someone else’s property.
You can also be charged with a separate offense – “reckless burning” – if you recklessly set fire to someone else’s structure, property, or forest land. For example, someone could be charged with reckless burning if they toss a cigarette out a car window, consequently causing a forest fire. You do not need to have intended to start a fire to face these charges.
You should discuss your case with an Orange County arson attorney as soon as you are arrested or learn you are under investigation for arson or reckless burning. Attorney Goodman can help you understand your rights and potential defense options.
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Great attorney to work with. She's a boss and has some serious attorney swagger. When I walked into the court room with her, everybody stopped and starred. I felt like I was getting represented by a superstar attorney. She'll run circles around any DA.
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YOU NEED AN AGGRESSIVE LEGAL DEFENSE
An arson conviction will do more than put you behind bars. It will also give you a criminal record that will likely jeopardize your ability to secure housing and employment opportunities. An Orange County arson lawyer can look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, build a strong defense, negotiate reduced charges and sentencing, and fight to protect your future. No matter the allegations or your circumstances, The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman is here for you.
Do not wait to seek legal guidance if you have been charged with or are under investigation for arson. Call
714-879-5770 or fill out an online contact form today.