ARSON CHARGES
AREAS DE PRÁCTICA
SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY, LOUISIANA ARSON LAWYER
Northwest LA Criminal Defense Lawyer for Those Facing Arson Charges
If you are facing arson charges in the Shreveport or Bossier City area, it’s essential to obtain legal counsel from an experienced Louisiana arson lawyer as soon as possible. Arson is a felony offense that carries serious penalties, including lengthy prison time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. The legal process can be complex and intimidating, especially when the stakes are high and your future is on the line.
En La oficina legal de Michael J. Vergis, we understand the gravity of arson accusations and are committed to providing strategic, aggressive defense for every client. Whether you’ve been accused of intentionally setting a fire or causing property damage through reckless behavior, our legal team will thoroughly investigate your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight to protect your rights every step of the way.
Don’t face these charges alone. Call us today at (318) 698-3724 o llena nuestro secure online form to schedule a confidential consultation. Attorney Michael J. Vergis is ready to stand by your side, advocate for your rights, and help you work toward the best possible outcome.
Louisiana Arson Laws
Según la ley de Luisiana (La. R.S. §14:51-14:54), arson refers to the intentional damaging of property by setting fire, with varying degrees of severity depending on the circumstances. Key elements prosecutors must prove include the act of intentionally setting fire or causing damages and the resulting impact on property or human life.
For example, aggravated arson involves setting fire to a property where it is foreseeable that human life could be endangered or where serious bodily injury occurs. In contrast, simple arson pertains to intentional property destruction without risking lives, while negligent arson addresses unintentional fires caused by criminal mischief or reckless behavior.
These laws and their penalties emphasize the seriousness of such crimes, as damages sustained can result in devastating consequences for victims. If you are facing charges for one of Louisiana’s most serious crimes, consulting an experienced Louisiana criminal defense attorney like Michael J. Vergis is essential to building a strong defense.
What is Simple Arson in Louisiana?
De acuerdo a Luisiana R.S. §14:52, simple arson occurs when someone intentionally sets fire to or causes an explosion that unlawfully damages property without the owner’s consent. This type of arson does not require a human presence in the affected area, but it can still result in significant consequences, especially if charged with setting fire to a religious building (RS 14:52.1).
Insurance fraud is a common motive behind simple arson if the fire is set to collect insurance payouts. Arson with intent to defraud (RS 14:53) not only harms property but also disrupts communities and puts first responders at risk.
What is Aggravated Arson in Louisiana?
La. R.S. §14:51 states that aggravated arson involves the intentional damaging of any movable structure or any water vessel by setting fire or by the use of explosives that causes foreseeable bodily injury.
This includes situations where a human being is present, such as a residential home, religious building, or a public space. Using explosive substances to ignite the fire or cause destruction can significantly increase the severity of the damage and, as such, the charges. That’s why, if you are facing these charges, having a skilled arson criminal defense attorney like Michael J. Vergis to defend your case is crucial to protecting your future.
What is Injury by Arson in Louisiana?
Injury by arson (RS 14:51.1) happens when someone intentionally sets fire to or damages someone else’s property, like a building, boat, or vehicle, using fire or explosives and one of the following occurs:
- Someone is seriously hurt, permanently disabled, or disfigured because of the fire or explosion; or
- A firefighter, police officer, or first responder who is at the scene doing their job gets injured as a result.
In addition to facing criminal charges, injury victims may also pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the perpetrator.
What is Negligent Arson in Louisiana?
Por debajo RS 14:52.2, a criminal negligence arson crime refers to unintentional fires caused by reckless behavior or a lack of proper care. While the fire may not have been started with intent, the knowledge of the risks involved and failure to take precautions can still lead to criminal charges. This crime typically involves damage to property belonging to another person and can result in significant legal consequences.
Things like improperly storing flammable materials or failing to address known fire hazards may lead to accusations of negligent arson and can lead to fines and imprisonment.
Is Arson a Felony in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, arson is typically considered a felony offense due to the severity of the crime and the potential for devastating consequences, including damages sustained, injury, or even death. The penalties for arson vary depending on the circumstances, but in any case, they are often stiff. Aside from potential prison time, restitution payments to cover property damages are often required, along with probation or parole conditions. The law treats arson as a serious threat to public safety, and prosecution focuses on proving intent and the level of harm caused.
If you have been accused of this crime and are facing a felony offense, consulting a skilled Louisiana felony defense attorney is critical to navigating the legal process and mitigating the harsh penalties of a conviction.
Louisiana Simple Arson Sentence
A conviction for simple arson in Louisiana depends on the extent of the damage as well as the intent:
- Simple Arson (Damage of $500 or More): Up to 15 years in prison with hard labor and a fine of up to $15,000.
- Simple Arson (Damage Less Than $500): A fine of up to $2,500, up to five years in prison (with or without hard labor), or both.
- Simple Arson of a Religious Building: Fines up to $15,000 and 2 to 15 years in prison with hard labor (at least 2 years of which must be served without the chance for parole, probation, or a reduced sentence).
- Arson with Intent to Defraud: Up to $10,000 in fines, 5 years in prison (with or without hard labor), or both.
Louisiana Aggravated Arson Sentence
Aggravated arson carries even harsher penalties due to the intentional damaging of property that endangers human life. A conviction can lead to anywhere between six years and 20 years in prison with hard labor and a fine of up to $25,000. At least 2 years of the prison sentence must be served without the possibility of parole, probation, or a reduced sentence.
Louisiana Injury By Arson Sentence
The penalty for injury by arson is the same for aggravated arson charges: 6 to 20 years in prison with hard labor (two years without early release) and up to $25,000 in fines.
Louisiana Criminal Negligence Arson Sentence
The punishment for negligent arson in Louisiana is dependent upon various circumstances:
- First Offense (No Risk to Human Life): Fines up to $1,000, 6 months in jail, or both.
- Second or Later Offense (No Risk to Human Life): Fines up to $2,000 and up to two years in prison with or without hard labor.
- Reasonably Likely That Someone Could Have Been Hurt: Up to $3,000 in fines and face up to 3 years in prison, with or without hard labor.
- Someone Was Seriously Hurt Or Killed Because Of The Fire: Fines of up to $5,000 and 5 years in prison, with or without hard labor.
Why You Need an Experienced Arson Criminal Defense Attorney
An arson conviction can carry serious, long-term consequences that go far beyond time behind bars. This felony offense often leads to prison time and may include additional restrictions such as parole or probation in Louisiana. In many cases, individuals are also required to pay restitution for property damage, adding to the financial burden.
Beyond the courtroom, a conviction can severely limit your ability to find employment, secure housing, or pursue financial opportunities, since felonies stay on your criminal record. Arson charges, often associated with criminal mischief and intentional property destruction, also carry a lasting social stigma that can harm your personal and professional relationships.
Because arson cases frequently involve complex technical evidence like fire forensics and expert testimony, having an experienced Louisiana attorney is essential. A skilled lawyer can assist in navigating the investigation, challenging flawed evidence, and protecting your rights at every stage. The right defense can make all the difference in minimizing the consequences and pursuing the best possible outcome.
How Michael Vergis Can Help Defend Against Arson Charges in Louisiana
Abogado Michael Vergis and his knowledgeable team are dedicated to defending clients accused of arson by thoroughly investigating every aspect of the case. From challenging the validity of evidence to disputing intent, Michael Vergis leaves no stone unturned in building a strong defense.
With extensive experience representing clients in both trials and pre-trial negotiations, he works tirelessly to reduce or dismiss charges and protect the rights and reputation of those facing accusations.
If you have been accused of arson, trust the Abogados penales de Shreveport at The Law Office of Michael J. Vergis to provide the skilled representation you need.
Common Arson Defense Strategies
Depending on the details of your case, a skilled defense attorney like Michael J. Vergis can use a variety of legal strategies to fight arson charges. This may include challenging the prosecution’s evidence, such as showing that the fire was accidental or had no connection to the accused.
Other common defenses involve questioning the intent behind the alleged act and exposing flaws or inconsistencies in the investigation. By drawing on his deep understanding of Louisiana law and focusing on reducing or dismissing charges, Mike Vergis works diligently to protect your rights and pursue a fair resolution, especially in cases where significant property damage or loss is involved.
Facing Arson Charges in Louisiana? Shreveport Arson Defense Attorney Michael J. Vergis Can Help
If you are facing arson charges in Louisiana, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Michael J. Vergis and his dedicated team are here to provide the support and guidance you need.
As an experienced Bossier City/Shreveport, Louisiana criminal defense attorney, he is committed to protecting your rights, building a strong defense, and working toward the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact The Law Offices of Michael J. Vergis at (318) 698-3724 or reach out online today to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
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