When you are under investigation for arson, it is essential that you contact a San Francisco defense attorney immediately. At Bay Area Criminal Lawyers, PC, we know the laws regarding arson and how to protect your rights and freedom. In California, penalties for committing arson are severe, and you are putting your future in jeopardy if you do not consult with an attorney. We can help you not only during police questioning, but through the various stages of investigation and prosecution.

What is arson? Any time a fire is intentionally set to a property it is considered arson. Whether the property is a business, residence, land or even your own property, intentionally setting a fire is against the law. Our San Francisco arson defense lawyers are skilled and dedicated to defending your rights and freedom through every stage of the criminal process. Whether innocent or guilty, you have rights - and we take your future seriously.

By hiring an experienced and knowledgeable San Francisco defense attorney, the outcome of your trial can be much brighter, and it will make a huge difference in the sentencing that you face. If convicted, penalties for arson may include:

2 to 6 years in state prison for arson of structure that is uninhabited or forest land

3 to 8 years in prison for setting fire to an inhabited dwelling

5 to 9 years for arson that causes substantial bodily injury

Of course there are other penalties depending upon whether you have a previous arson violation, have caused injury to a firefighter or the fire burned multiple structures. In addition to imprisonment, you may be facing probation, steep fines, or even being forced to register with law enforcement. You may also have a criminal record that affects every aspect of your life long in to the future, or for the rest of your life.

At Bay Area Criminal Lawyers, PC, we know that arson is often committed in order to cover up another crime. When someone sets fire to their own property, it may be for the purpose of insurance fraud. Domestic violence and retaliation for unpaid debts are other common reasons that people commit arson. Of course, we realize that sometimes a fire is an absolute accident, and innocent people get blamed. No matter what your circumstances, you need a competent San Francisco arson defense attorney on your side.

Crimes of arson are investigated vigorously by both insurance investigators and law enforcement, so it is imperative that you have legal representation to protect your future and freedom. Contact Bay Area Criminal Lawyers, PC, for the best possible defense available today.