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Arson is considered a serious crime in Denver. It is charged as a property crime, and if you have been arrested, you cannot afford to leave your case to chance.
At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, our experienced defense attorneys understand these charges and the potential consequences of a conviction. They are ready to build a solid defense for your case.
In Colorado, arson charges are divided into different degrees, each reflecting the severity of the offense and the circumstances surrounding it.
The Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani works to defend clients against all types of Denver arson charges. Understanding the distinct nature of these charges is paramount in crafting a defense that is as aggressive as it is effective.
This is the most serious charge levied against those accused of intentionally setting fire to occupied structures or property with the potential to harm occupants.
The implications of a first-degree arson conviction are severe, potentially leading to lengthy prison sentences.
Our defense strategy challenges every prosecutorial claim, from the supposed intent to the actual cause of the fire, ensuring your rights are protected.
A person faces second-degree arson charges if they are accused of setting fire to unoccupied structures or property, including personal property of significant value.
While the penalties might be less severe than those for first-degree arson, the damage to one’s future and reputation remains considerable.
Our approach focuses on dismantling the evidence against you, asserting potential lawful reasons, or questioning the valuation of damaged property to weaken the prosecution’s case.
With third-degree arson charges, you are accused of setting fires to commit fraud, such as to claim insurance money. These charges rely heavily on proving intent, a legal threshold we aggressively challenge.
We scrutinize every piece of financial and forensic evidence to uncover discrepancies and ensure that investigators’ assumptions are thoroughly questioned.
Fourth-degree arson involves cases where a fire was set recklessly, endangering people or property. The complexity of these cases requires a nuanced defense, which we provide by emphasizing the lack of criminal intent and showcasing the absence of malice behind the act.
At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, we tailor our defense strategies to meet the unique challenges of each type of arson charge. Our aggressive stance in the courtroom matches our preparation and understanding of Denver’s arson laws.
Whether disputing the degree of arson charged or challenging the supposed evidence brought against you, our commitment is unwavering. Trust us to protect your rights in these situations.
Understanding the classification of arson charges in Denver is crucial for those facing these serious allegations. In Colorado, arson can be prosecuted as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending primarily on the following:
In Colorado, felony arson charges are typically associated with first—and second-degree arson.
First-degree arson, involving deliberate fires set to occupied structures with the intent to harm, is treated as a class 3 felony, carrying severe penalties, including significant prison time.
Second-degree arson, charged when unoccupied property is intentionally burned, is also prosecuted as a felony. However, the penalties are somewhat less severe, reflecting the absence of immediate danger to life.
Misdemeanor arson charges are less common but can apply in cases of fourth-degree arson, where the actions leading to the fire were reckless rather than intentional, and no serious harm was intended or resulted.
These charges acknowledge the act’s less egregious nature, focusing on rehabilitation and restitution rather than solely on punishment.
At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, we recognize what distinguishes felony arson charges from misdemeanors. Our defense strategies are crafted to reflect the specific circumstances and charges you face, aiming to reduce the charges’ severity or clear your name entirely.
The repercussions of an arson conviction in Denver can be significant, impacting every aspect of an individual’s life. Understanding the potential consequences is essential for anyone facing arson charges in Colorado.
The penalties are particularly severe for felony arson convictions. First-degree arson, a class 3 felony, may result in prison sentences of up to 12 years and fines of up to $750,000.
Second-degree arson, classified as a class 4 felony for burning unoccupied property, can lead to a prison term of 2 to 6 years and fines up to $500,000. These penalties reflect the serious nature of arson, recognizing the potential for significant harm and destruction.
Although misdemeanor charges for arson are less severe, convictions still carry substantial penalties.
Fourth-degree arson, often seen as a misdemeanor based on the recklessness of the act and absence of intent to harm, may lead to jail time, fines, and mandatory restitution payments to cover the damage caused by the fire.
Beyond legal penalties, a conviction can also result in long-term consequences that affect employment opportunities, housing, and personal relationships. The stigma of a criminal record, particularly for a serious offense like arson, can be a significant barrier to reintegrating into society and moving forward with one’s life.
At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, we understand the stakes involved with an arson charge and the importance of a strong defense. We work tirelessly to mitigate these potential consequences, aiming to protect your future and your freedom.
Navigating Denver arson charges requires an in-depth understanding of potential defenses that can be employed to protect the accused. At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, we analyze every facet of the accusations to construct an effective defense strategy.
Key defenses often include:
We leverage every potential defense, from challenging the alleged intent and questioning the accuracy of forensic evidence to scrutinizing the investigation’s thoroughness. We work to defend our clients against current charges and safeguard their futures against the lasting impacts of a possible conviction.
If you are accused of or arrested for arson in Denver, we are here to help. Contact our experienced Denver arson defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani today. We will fight for your rights and your future.
