Arson Charges and Penalties

Arson is defined as the act of intentionally starting a fire or creating an explosion to damage or destroy a building, residence or vehicle. Purposely setting fire to open land or a structure on open land also qualifies as arson under the Texas penal code. Arson may be conducted during a protest, as revenge, to communicate a threat, commit insurance fraud, or to recklessly destroy a person's property.

Arson is punishable as a felony offense under Texas law. If you have been charged with arson, consider contacting an Austin criminal defense attorney immediately to discuss your case. Call the offices of Ian Inglis at 512-472-1950.

Defining Arson

According to the Texas penal code, setting fire to or causing an explosion in or on a building, habitation, vehicle, open land, or structure on open land is considered arson when the arsonist:

• Knew that the act was taking place within a city or town
• Knew that the structure or property was insured against damage or subject to a security interest
• Knew that it contained another person's property
• Knew that it was property belonging to someone else
• Caused the fire or explosion while manufacturing illegal drugs
• Recklessly puts a person's life or property in danger

A person can be charged with arson if one or more of the above conditions apply.

Punishment for an Arson Offense

If found guilty of arson, the defendant will typically be convicted of a second-degree felony. However, if the prosecution can provide evidence that the fire or explosion resulted in an injury or death, or that the site intended to be damaged was a residence or a religious site, the charge may be elevated to a first-degree felony. Penalties for a second-degree or first-degree felony offense include:

• Second-degree felony: 2 to 20 years in prison; fines up to $10,000
• 4First-degree felony: 5 years to life in prison; fines up to $10,000

Getting arrested for arson is a serious charge that could possibly have a lasting effect on your freedoms and personal life. If you have been charged with arson, consider contacting a criminal defense lawyer to assist you with your defense. An Austin criminal attorney will protect your rights under the law and will fight to defend you against an aggressive prosecution in court.

Contact Us

Don't enter the courtroom feeling unprepared to defend your case. To learn more about arson charges and building a legal defense, please contact the experienced Austin criminal lawyer Ian Inglis today at 512-472-1950.