Hatfield Law Office
Arson is defined as the intentional and malicious burning or charring of a property or structure. Arson cases are typically classified as felonies, the most serious level of crime carrying with it the most severe legal consequences.
Save as PDFWe encourage you to contact us today for a free case evaluation by calling 812-422-0222
Benefits of Hiring Hatfield Law for Arson Cases
At Hatfield Law, our attorneys are familiar with the latest arson laws and defenses. It is important to hire an experienced arson defense lawyer because arson crimes are fact-sensitive and rely heavily on fire investigations and reconstructions.
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About Arson Cases
IC 35-43-1-1:
A Person Who, By Means Of Fire, Explosive, Or Destructive Device, Knowingly Or
Intentionally Damages:
- (1) a dwelling of another person without the other person’s consent;
- (2) property of any person under circumstances that endanger human life;
- (3) property of another person without the other person’s consent if the pecuniary
loss is at least five thousand dollars ($5,000); or - (4) a structure used for religious worship without the consent of the owner of the structure;
commits arson, a level 4 felony. however, the offense is a level 3 felony if it results in bodily injury to any person other than a defendant and a
level 2 felony if it results in serious bodily injury to any person other than a defendant.
A Person Who Commits Arson For Hire Commits A Level 4 Felony. However, The Offense Is:
- (1) a level 3 felony if it results in bodily injury to any other person; and
- (2) a level 2 felony if it results in serious bodily injury to any other person.
A Person Who, By Means Of Fire, Explosive, Or Destructive Device, Knowingly Or Intentionally Damages
Property Of Any Person With Intent To Defraud Commits Arson, A Level 6 Felony.
A Person Who, By Means Of Fire, Explosive, Or Destructive Device, Knowingly Or Intentionally Damages
Property Of Another Person Without The Other Person’s Consent So That The Resulting Pecuniary Loss Is
At Least Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250) But Less Than Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000) Commits Arson, A
Level 6 Felony.
A Person Who Commits An Offense Under Subsection (A), (B), (C), Or (D) Commits A Separate Offense For Each
Person Who Suffers A Bodily Injury Or Serious Bodily Injury That Is Caused By The Violation Of Subsection
(A), (B), (C), Or (D).
Save as PDFArson can include residential and commercial Property, forest land, vehicles, and personal property such as cars, boats, and laptops.
Save as PDFIntent
Did the accused deliberately set fire to the property without the owner’s knowledge and consent? If it was an accident, there may bot be a charge of arson.
Save as PDFRecklessness
If the accused knowingly partook in dangerous actions that caused the damage of property, they can be charged with arson even if the intention was not to set property on fire.
Save as PDFDamage of Property or Structure
Property must have been damaged to secure an arson conviction. If no damage occured, it may not be arson.
Although arson laws originally applied to the burning of another person’s property, today, they cover the burning of one’s own property for insurance or fraudulent purposes.
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What Can Our Arson Attorneys Do?
Our arson attorneys are well-versed in the latest arson laws and defenses. In Indiana, Arson charges range from a level 6 felony to a level 2 felony, and factors that determine the appropriate felony level are as below:
- Type of building burned – burning public or residential property is considered more serious than burning an abandoned property.
- Injuries of a person due to the arson
- Value of building burned
- Proximity of people to the burned building
- Whether the accused took payment from another party in committing the crime
- Whether the crime was committed to defraud
Save as PDFWhy Hire Hatfield Law for Arson Cases?
At Hatfield Law, your lawyer will independently investigate your case, including hiring a fire and reconstruction expert if necessary. We investigate fire cases from every angle because we believe our fire/arson experience matters when it comes to securing the best result for you.
If you want to schedule a free consultation with one of our arson attorneys,feel free to contact us now. You can call Hatfield Law at 812-422-0222 or send an email to ryan@hatfieldlaw.com or david@hatfieldlaw.com.
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