Minnesota Arson Defense Attorneys
Arson involves the act of maliciously, voluntarily, and willfully setting fire to the property of another, or burning your own property for an improper purpose, such as to make an insurance claim. In Minnesota, arson charges are prosecuted by degree according to the severity of the alleged offense in terms of dollar value or injury to the victim of the fire. Minnesota arson statutes contain six types of arson charges:
- First Degree Arson;
- Second Degree Arson;
- Third Degree Arson;
- Fourth Degree Arson;
- Wildfire Arson; and
- Negligent Fires
A Minnesota criminal defense lawyer at our law firm can assist you in the face of any type of arson or wildfire related charges. We are committed to providing the best defense available to each of our clients.
Call (763) 323-6555, or contact us by e-mail, to schedule a free consultation. Protect your rights if you’ve been charged with arson.
First degree arson is defined as using fire or explosives to intentionally destroy or damage a building that is used as, or connected to a dwelling, regardless of whether anyone is present at the time of the offense.
If arson is committed involving an unoccupied structure, but someone is present at the time of the offense, and the defendant had knowledge, or should have reasonably had knowledge of this fact, the defendant may face first degree arson charges.
Second degree arson involves destroying unoccupied structures, or dwellings, by means of fire or explosives, or destroying real, or personal, properly valued at more than $1,000.
You may face third degree arson charges for intentionally destroying or damaging real, or personal property, valued at more than $300 but less than $1,000 – by means of fire or explosives.
Intentionally setting fire to, or damaging by way of explosives, any other personal property in a public building, or multiple unit residential building (condo or apartment), may be considered fourth degree arson, if the offense does not qualify under first, second or third degree arson.
Fifth degree arson involves burning, or setting fire to, any real or personal property, regardless of value.
A defendant may face wildfire arson charges if accused of intentionally setting fire to another’s land containing underbrush, grass, timber, or a similar combustible material.
Gross negligence involving a fire burning out of control, and injuring, or causing damage, is a “negligent fire” offense. These charges apply if another person is injured, or another person’s property is damaged.
ALWAYS A FREE CONSULTATION
It is important to act swiftly after you’ve been arrested, or charged with arson. The sooner you involve a lawyer, the better able we will be to gather evidence, interview essential witnesses, and to address other important elements of your case.
Call our law firm now for a free consultation with one of our experienced Minnesota arson defense attorneys: (763) 323-6555.
Client Testimonial: “Jason took my matter with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity. He was a fantastic listener and offered practical suggestions to help resolve the situation. He did an excellent job negotiating with opposing counsel. As a direct result of Jason’s efforts, I live my life free of constant worry about the future. I highly recommend the firm to anyone who needs a caring and highly competent lawyer.” - Melissa B., Maple Grove, Minnesota
Our Minnesota arson defense lawyers represent clients throughout Minnesota, including the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, Mankato, St. Cloud, Moorhead, Apple Valley, Blaine, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Burnsville, Coon Rapids, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Edina, Lakeville, Maple Grove, Maplewood, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Richfield, Roseville and Woodbury.
We defend those accused of arson in Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka, Sherburne, Wright, Scott, Dakota, Chisago, Washington and Isanti County.
Available 24/7 • Reasonable Fees • Credit Cards Accepted
Former Prosecutor • Former Criminal Investigator • Former Judicial Law Clerk
