Phoenix Arson Defense Attorney

Over 25 Years of Criminal Defense Skill

As the intentional destruction of property by way of fire or explosion, Arizona courts punish arson crimes rather severely. This is likely due to how difficult it is to control a fire or explosion once it occurs. While some arson cases are truly malicious attempts to harm another person or their property, the most common types of arson cases involve the burning of a home or even a vehicle for the purpose of committing insurance fraud. If a death occurs as a result of an arson, the responsible individual(s) may be charged with felony murder or conspiracy to commit murder.

Facing arson charges? Don’t wait— contact us today at (602) 663-9100 for an initial consultation!

Arson Charges in Arizona

While arson cases are far less common than other crimes such as drug offenses or sex crimes, the potential penalties are still severe. Prosecutors in Arizona almost always treat arson as a dangerous offense by designating ‘fire’ as a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument capable of causing serious physical injury or death.

Such a designation is made even if no one was hurt, or if no one was home at the time of a fire. Upon conviction for either the charge of arson of an occupied structure or arson of an unoccupied structure, judges have no discretion but to impose lengthy prison sentences.