Arson Defense Attorney in Denver,CO
What Constitutes Arson in Colorado?
Arson in Colorado is defined as someone who knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly uses fire or explosives to damage or destroy land, personal property, or buildings.
In Colorado, arson is classified by degree and may result in a misdemeanor or felony charge.
Arson: Misdemeanor or a Felony?
In Colorado you can be charged with misdemeanor or a felony for this crime, depending on several factors, including:
- Whether you set the fire intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly
- Whose property it was
- The type of property
- The damaged property’s value
- Whether it resulted in bodily injury
What Are the Potential Consequences of an Arson Conviction?
The potential consequences of an arson conviction depend on its degree and the accompanying circumstances.
A person who knowingly or recklessly starts or maintains a fire or causes an explosion, on his own property or that of another, and by so doing places another in danger of death or serious bodily injury or places any building or occupied structure of another in danger of damage commits fourth degree arson.
Fourth degree arson is a class 4 felony if a person is thus endangered.
The penalties faced by an individual charged with fourth-degree arson are as follows:
- A petty offense if only property is thus endangered, and the value of the property is less than three hundred dollars. Up to 10 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $300 or both.
- A class 2 misdemeanor if only property is thus endangered, and the value of the property is three hundred dollars or more but less than one thousand dollars. Up to 120 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $750 or both.
- A class 1 misdemeanor if only property is thus endangered, and the value of the property is one thousand dollars or more but less than two thousand dollars. Up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1000 or both.
- A class 6 felony if only property is thus endangered, and the value of the property is two thousand dollars or more but less than five thousand dollars. Up to 12-18 months in prison and/or a fine of up to $100,000 or both.
- A class 5 felony if only property is thus endangered, and the value of the property is five thousand dollars or more but less than twenty thousand dollars. Up to 1-3 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $100,000 or both.
- A class 4 felony if only property is thus endangered, and the value of the property is twenty thousand dollars or more but less than one hundred thousand dollars. Up to 2-6 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $500,000 or both.
- A class 3 felony if only property is thus endangered, and the value of the property is one hundred thousand dollars or more but less than one million dollars. Up to 4-12 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $750,000 or both; and
- A class 2 felony if only property is thus endangered, and the value of the property is one million dollars or more. Up to 8-24 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $1,000,000 or both.
Count on GLaw Defense for Your Arson Defense
Our criminal defense attorneys at GLaw Defense bring more than 20 years of experience to the table. During your free initial consultation, we’ll evaluate your arson defense case and advise you of the best course of action for your specific circumstances. Our team works in your best interests, defending your rights through negotiation and at trial.
Contact Glaw Defense today by completing an online form, or calling (303) 205-8495 to arrange a no-obligation 100% free consultation.