South Carolina Arson Offenses

Lexington Criminal Defense Attorney

The crime of arson is the intentional setting fire to a structure, vehicle, or personal property of another. This is a very serious offense in the state of South Carolina, and it is essential for you to have skillful representation to help you effectively pursue the results that you need for your future. At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC we understand the difficulties that you are experiencing if you have been arrested for this offense, and you can look to us for the representation that you need.

It is crucial that you contact a Lexington criminal lawyer from our firm today to discuss your criminal charges. The sooner you seek our assistance, the sooner we can begin to build a strong defense of your case. We can work to uncover evidence, gather witnesses, investigate testimonies, and implement many other legal strategies to ensure that you are being provided with the best defense. Your situation is important to us, and it is important that you understand the penalties that you could possibly face in order to dispel some fear of the unknown.

Penalties and Sentencing for Arson in Lexington, SC

According to S.C. Code §16-11-110, there are three degrees of arson, and each is a felony offense that can carry some significant penalties for conviction. This section also explains what actions count as the crime of arson, and they may include an application of fire, or an explosive.

First Degree Arson - Arson in the first degree occurs when an individual willfully and maliciously sets fire to, causes an explosion, or otherwise causes the burning of a dwelling house, building, structure, or any personal property, which results in the death of a person. Any person who aids or counsels in the commission of this act is also guilty of first degree arson. If you are convicted of this crime, then you will face a prison sentence of no less than 30 years.

Second Degree Arson - Arson in the second degree occurs when a person maliciously and willfully causes and explosion, burns, or sets fire to a building, structure, dwelling house, or personal property, which results either directly or indirectly, the serious bodily injury of a victim. If you are charged and convicted of the crime of second degree arson, then you will face a prison sentence of no less than 25 years.

Third Degree Arson - This offense occurs when a person willfully and maliciously sets fire, burns, or causes an explosion that results in damage to a building, structure, personal property, or dwelling house which results in bodily injury to another, or damage to the property. The penalties for a criminal conviction of third degree arson include a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.

Excellent Representation Based on Attention to Detail

Our firm has been working with the residents of Lexington, South Carolina for a number of years, and we are dedicated to providing our clients with the personal representation that they need in order to effectively defend their rights. When you choose to work with us, we will begin the process with a detailed interview to investigate the various nuances of your case, and we will work to build a defense that is effective and stands up in court. We offer a free case evaluation, which you may use to your benefit by obtaining some legal information as to the issues involved in your case before making any financial commitment to us.