Possible Effects of Arson Investigations in California
Arson investigators often focus on determining the causes for a fire here in California. They can gather evidence associated with:
- Accelerants
- Tampering with the scene
- Burn patterns
Any of these forms of evidence can show that someone engaged in criminal activity. Many investigators will focus on fire dynamics, for example. The prosecution will use the evidence gathered by arson investigators. This can allow them to build a stronger case.
However, just because investigators analyze evidence from a crime scene, it does not mean that charges will lead to a conviction. A lawyer here in Los Angeles can work to dispute much of the evidence gained by arson investigators. Members of our team are standing by to help you right now.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
A Lawyer Can Work to Disprove Arson Charges
You do not have to simply accept an arson conviction here in Los Angeles. An arson investigator could have no effect on your charges in some situations. A lawyer can work to dispute the results of their investigation to get your charges:
- Reduced
- Dismissed
The rate of convictions in arson cases around the country is actually very low. Fewer than 1% of arson allegations lead to a conviction around the U.S. You can get help building a defense for your specific charges if you contact the Simmrin Law Group.
Our team is standing by to monitor investigators as they assess your case. We can work to ensure that your rights are protected during the investigation. Learn more by calling our team right now at (310) 896-2723.
What Happens When Charges Are Reviewed by Arson Investigators in California
The prosecution can work with arson investigators on any kind of arson charge in our area. The court system in California uses two primary charges to handle arson accusations. These charges include:
Penal Code §451
PC 451 deals with malicious arson. Malicious arson is a felony-level offense here in California. Individuals face malicious arson charges if they purposefully set fire to a forest, property, or structure in order to:
- Cause someone else an injury
- Commit fraud
- Annoy someone else
Arson investigators do not focus on establishing intent for arson cases. They may not work to show that someone caused with malicious intent. However, they can work to show how the fire was started.
Penal Code §452
Individuals face PC 452 charges for reckless burning. Reckless burning is considered less serious than malicious arson in California. Individuals face this charge if they start a fire by acting in a reckless or dangerous way. A property crimes lawyer in Los Angeles can help with either malicious arson or reckless burning charges.
Penalties for Convictions of Arson Accusations in Los Angeles
The results of an arson investigation can strengthen the prosecution’s case here in Los Angeles. In some cases, the prosecution can secure a conviction for arson charges. A conviction can lead to:
- Fines
- Jail time
- Prison time
Note that not all arson charges are handled the same way in the court system. Malicious arson charges often lead to a longer period of incarceration in our state.
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Your Lawyer Can Mitigate the Effects of an Arson Investigation
An arson investigation could have major impacts on your charges in Los Angeles. However, a criminal defense lawyer can step in to help you handle these accusations starting right now. Members of our team can work to show that:
- You didn’t intend to harm, defraud, or annoy anyone.
- You did not intentionally set a fire.
- You were falsely accused of arson.
We are ready to help you with malicious arson or reckless burning charges. We know what it takes to handle prosecutors who deal with arson investigators. Contact us now to learn more.
Call the Simmrin Law Group Today for Help with Your Case
Arson investigations can make the prosecution’s case stronger in some situations. However, a lawyer at the Simmrin Law Group can also help you handle these investigations. Find out how we could help by calling (310) 896-2723 or filling out our online contact form. We’ll review your situation with a free consultation.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form