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Long Island Arson Lawyer
Long Island Arson Attorney
The consequences of arson charges can be substantial, especially if you do not have an experienced criminal defense lawyer to help you fight the charges with a strong defense strategy. Depending on the details of your case and the full extent of the charges you’re facing, you could end up facing life-altering legal penalties you may not be prepared to handle. The first thing you should do upon being charged is speak with a Long Island arson lawyer who can help your case.
The legal team at The Vitaliano Law Firm understands and recognizes the complications you could face if convicted of arson charges. Any of the five degrees of arson in New York can result in a criminal record if convicted, regardless of whether or not you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges.
A criminal record will follow you for life and negatively impact your job opportunities, your social standing, and even your personal relationships. An arson attorney can help.
Why Should You Hire an Arson Lawyer?
There are many different, important reasons why you should hire an arson lawyer. When you are facing potential arson charges, you will want someone by your side who understands the stakes ahead of you. Michael Vitaliano has the experience of a former prosecutor turned criminal defense lawyer. He has helped countless clients over a long and fruitful career. He understands the most effective methods you can use to build a solid defense strategy.
According to recent statistical data gathered by the United States Sentencing Commission, there were no recorded arson sentences in Southern New York throughout 2024. While that may appear to be nothing to be concerned about in Long Island, there were 84 convictions for arson nationwide that year. Arson charges are taken very seriously nationwide. Understanding the recent statistics can be beneficial to your own case.
Facing potential arson charges can be overwhelming to your mental health. It may be beneficial to consider reaching out to a local mental health support group, such as NAMI Long Island or the Mental Health Foundation. As you navigate the road ahead for your case, speaking with like-minded individuals who have been through similar situations may be beneficial for you. Reaching out to one of these groups can provide you with an avenue to vent your frustrations.
Arson Statutes in New York
In New York, there are five distinct statutes of arson under which one can be charged. The penalties that you face will be dependent largely on the details of your case and the degree to which you are charged.
Here are the various degrees of arson charges that you could face:
- Arson in the fifth degree involves intentionally damaging someone else’s property by starting a fire or causing some sort of explosion. If there are no significant injuries, this will likely be regarded as a Class A misdemeanor.
- Arson in the fourth degree involves recklessly damaging a building or a vehicle by intentionally causing an explosion or starting a fire. This is generally considered a Class E felony if there was no intent.
- Arson in the third degree involves intentionally damaging a building or vehicle by intentionally causing an explosion or starting a fire. The primary difference between third and fourth-degree arson is intent. This will generally result in Class C felony charges.
- Arson in the second degree involves intentionally damaging a building or vehicle while knowing that there is another person present or believing there is another person present. You are putting that person in serious danger by committing arson. This will generally result in Class B felony charges.
- Arson in the first degree involves the intentional damaging of property by fire or explosion that causes serious injury or death. The use of an incendiary device or an explosive will generally result in Class A-1 felony charges.
FAQs
What Is the Penalty for Arson in New York?
The penalty for arson depends entirely on the details of your case and whether anyone was seriously injured or killed because of the alleged arson. The most serious cases of arson will result in Class A-1 felony charges, which could land you in prison anywhere between 15 years and a life sentence. The least serious cases of arson will result in Class A misdemeanor charges, which could land you in jail for a year with a $1,000 fine.
Should I Hire a Defense Lawyer for My Case?
Yes, you should seriously consider hiring a defense lawyer for your case. Arson charges can be significant. If you aren’t careful, you could be convicted and end up serving hefty prison time on top of substantial fines. An experienced defense lawyer familiar with Long Island arson laws can help you develop a strong defense strategy that involves introducing reasonable doubt and effectively defending your position. The better your strategy, the better your chances.
Will I Go to Prison for Arson in New York?
If you are convicted of felony arson, there is a strong chance that your penalty will involve significant prison time. Arson charges are taken seriously in New York. You want to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer, primarily one who focuses on arson cases, to handle your case and do what they can to ensure you don’t end up going to prison. Upon arrest, remember to assert your constitutional rights and secure legal representation immediately.
What Is a Strong Defense for Arson in New York?
There are many potential defenses you can claim if you are facing arson charges in New York. One of the strongest is a lack of intent. With your lawyer’s help, you may be able to prove that the fire was accidental, caused by natural means, or started with a lawful purpose. To secure a conviction, the prosecution must be able to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which may not be easy.
Contact Us Today
The legal team at The Vitaliano Law Firm can help you develop a strong defense strategy to fight the arson charges you are facing. Contact us to speak to a valued team member about your case.
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About us
An accomplished legal advocate, Michael E. Vitaliano is the founder and principal of The Vitaliano Law Firm, based in New York City. Mr. Vitaliano is a leading criminal defense lawyer and experienced advocate in handling all criminal matters in state and federal court.
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