Trusted Arson Lawyer
Do you need an arson lawyer in Atlanta? Get in touch with Conoscienti and Ledbetter today. We are prepared to offer you the legal representation you need.
Author: J. Blake Ledbetter, Partner, Conoscienti & Ledbetter
Mr. Ledbetter specializes in civil litigation in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia, and possesses vast experience in wrongful death lawsuits. Mr. Ledbetter was recognized as a SuperLawyers Rising Star in 2018 and 2019 in the area of Civil Litigation. Published on February 13, 2024.
Speak with experienced Arson Lawyer today, for free.
Conoscienti & Ledbetter: Your Trusted Arson Attorney in Atlanta, Georgia
Arson in Atlanta is a serious accusation with potentially life-altering consequences. The consequences of a felony arson conviction include jail time, fines, restitution, and loss of certain liberties. When facing criminal charges, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and intimidated; seeking the assistance of a skilled arson lawyer in Atlanta can help.
At Conoscienti & Ledbetter, LLC, our experienced attorneys have over 40 years of combined experience in criminal defense, including arson cases. We offer comprehensive legal representation, assisting our clients with criminal, civil, and family law issues. From a business interruption claim to felonies, estates, and divorce, the team at Conoscienti & Ledbetter has your back.
Arson Charges in Georgia
Arson in Georgia is classified into three degrees: first, second, and third, with first-degree charges being the most severe. According to Georgia laws on arson, the classification of these degrees is determined based on the severity of the crime and the circumstances.
First Degree Arson
First-degree arson involves intentionally damaging another person’s residential property, building, vehicle, or any structure using fire or explosives. This charge applies if an individual knowingly causes or encourages someone else to damage any of the following by fire or explosives:
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Any occupied or vacant dwelling house
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Any building, vehicle, boat, or structure
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Any property as part of a scheme to defraud a spouse or co-owner
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Any property where there is a reasonably foreseeable risk to human life
Convictions for first-degree arson carry severe penalties, including fines of up to $50,000 and imprisonment for up to 20 years. Additionally, a person accused of first-degree arson may face additional charges if the fire results in injury or death to another individual.
If another’s negligence killed your loved one, don’t hesitate to contact our wrongful death attorney.
Second Degree Arson
Second-degree arson occurs when an individual intentionally aids or encourages the destruction of another person’s property using fire or explosives. While second-degree arson charges are less severe than first-degree ones, they can still result in significant penalties upon conviction, such as up to ten years of imprisonment and a fine of $25,000.
It’s important to note that in Georgia, a person can only be convicted of this crime if prosecutors can demonstrate that they caused damage or assisted someone else in damaging a property or structure that falls outside the scope of first-degree arson laws and that the act involved the use of fire or explosives.
Third Degree Arson
Under certain circumstances in Georgia, a defendant may be found guilty of third-degree arson. These circumstances include intentionally damaging personal property in which another person has a security interest valued at $25 or more. It also applies to damaging insured personal property valued at $25 or more.
In another scenario, intentional damage to personal property to defraud the rights of a spouse or co-owner is considered as long as the property’s value exceeds $25. Additionally, a person can be convicted of third-degree arson if they use fire to damage someone else’s property while committing another felony offense.
Upon conviction, defendants may face fines of up to $10,000 and imprisonment for at least one year but not exceeding five years.
Speak with trusted Arson Lawyer today, for free.
Why You Need a Skilled Arson Lawyer in Atlanta
Accidents happen, or the wrong person can find themselves a suspect. At Conoscienti & Ledbetter, we understand that evidence can be misinterpreted or overlooked in any criminal case. Arson cases present unique challenges due to the nature of the evidence involved. This is why it is crucial to have the services of an experienced arson defense attorney.
Our Atlanta arson lawyers are ready to use their skills and decades of experience to help you by:
Crafting a Defense Strategy
At Conoscienti & Ledbetter, we understand that every case is distinct and calls for a unique approach. We invest time comprehending the intricacies of your situation, evaluating evidence, and formulating a robust defense strategy to secure the most favorable outcome for you.
Defense strategies for arson cases often include, but are not limited to:
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Lack of Intent: If you are accused of arson, the prosecution must prove that you intended to start a destructive fire. In some cases, it may be possible to demonstrate that the fire was accidental. Without sufficient evidence of intent, a judge could dismiss the charges, or the jury will not be able to find intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Flawed Science: Sometimes, prosecutors use scientific evidence to determine how a fire started. This usually involves professionals giving their testimony. Finding an expert witness to rebut this testimony can be vital to defending arson charges and raising reasonable doubt about the cause of the fire.
Guidance During the Investigation Process
Arson cases often necessitate complex investigations involving multiple investigators and forensic experts. It is crucial to have legal representation to safeguard your interests. Our attorneys are here to assist you, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the investigative process and advocating on your behalf.
Moreover, drawing on our extensive experience, we can meticulously examine the investigative procedures to mitigate any potential procedural errors that may compromise your case or rights.
Negotiating a Plea Agreement
We can assist you with plea negotiations if the prosecution presents a strong case. A plea deal involves the prosecution and defense reaching an agreement that results in a reduced sentence in exchange for a guilty plea. The charges may sometimes also be reduced as a result of the plea.
A skilled criminal lawyer can skillfully negotiate a favorable plea deal or explore alternative sentencing options, such as rehabilitation, to ensure the best possible outcome for their client.
At Conoscienti & Ledbetter, our arson defense attorneys are experienced in plea negotiations and fighting for a fair agreement for our clients. You can trust us to always have your best interests in mind.
Secure Your Future With Conoscienti & Ledbetter
Being faced with arson charges can be a daunting experience, carrying the potential for severe legal consequences. However, at Conoscienti & Ledbetter, we are fully committed to vigorously defending your rights and ensuring the most favorable outcome.
We will analyze the unique details of your situation, armed with decades of knowledge, experience, and resources necessary to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. We can guide you through the case and strategically negotiate plea agreements.
Don’t allow a mistake or false accusation to tarnish your future. Take action today! Contact us for a free initial consultation.
Decatur Office
(404) 373-5800
315 W Ponce de Leon Ave. Suite 400 Decatur, GA 30030
