Cleveland Arson Defense Attorney
Ohio Arson Laws (ORC 2909.03)
If you have been charged with a property crime involving the use of fire or explosives, you’re facing prosecution under O.R.C. 2909.03. This statute covers a number of scenarios with different levels of punishment. The most important thing to know, besides the seriousness of your charge, is that you have the right to an attorney.
At Patituce & Associates, our Cleveland arson defense lawyers have more than 70 years of combined legal experience, including more than 400 jury trials. Led by former prosecutors, we know how both sides of the courtroom work. You can trust in us to protect your rights in the face of arson charges in the Cleveland area of Ohio.
To discuss your case with our Cleveland arson lawyers, call (440) 771-1175 now.
We understand that your specific situation requires individualized attention, and we are dedicated to providing just that.
No Case is Hopeless
We Don't Back Down. Ever.
Explore some of our recent wins.
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Case Dismissed CLEVELAND V. AL-NAZER (2012 TRC 040781)
Our client was accused of driving while under the influence of drugs, or alcohol.
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Not Guilty At Trial ROCKY RIVER V. D.F.
Client was charged with domestic violence against his wife.
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Plea and Record Expunged STATE V. BAILEY, CUYAHOGA
Client was accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of property.
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Charges Dismissed State v. Beckwith, Cuyahoga County
Student charged with the manufacturing of ecstasy.
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Case Dismissed STATE V. J.S. (A JUVENILE) YOUNGSTOWN
Local counsel pushed for a plea to one of the sex related charges.
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Acquittal State v. Tevin Biles
Client was identified as one of the alleged shooters at a New Year’s Eve party.
What Is Arson?
In the state of Ohio, Arson is defined as starting a fire or creating an explosion that:
- Physically harms or creates a substantial risk of harming a person’s property, without his or her consent.
- Physically harms or creates a substantial risk of harming a person’s property with the intent of defrauding.
- Physical harm or threats create the risk of harming any government-owned building structure that is used for public purposes.
- Physically harms a person’s property through the offer or the acceptance of an agreement for hire or other consideration, without the individual’s consent, or for the purpose of defrauding.
- Physically harms or creates a substantial risk of harming any park, preserve, wildlands, brush-covered land, cut-over land, forest, timberland, Greenlands, woods, or similar real property, without consent or with the purpose of defrauding.
It is necessary for the state prosecutor to prove your actions as well as your intent. For more information about arson laws in Ohio, contact Patituce & Associates. Our team will be happy to assist you and help answer any questions that you may have.
Cleveland Arson Charges & Penalties
Ohio’s arson code covers a variety of circumstances, each with varying degrees of legal penalties. For instance, causing or creating a substantial risk of physical harm to property without the owner’s consent is a first-degree misdemeanor and may lead to 6 months in jail. Where the value of the property is more than $100,000, the charge becomes a fourth-degree felony, with the potential for up to 18 months in prison. The same sentencing applies when the risk of harm is directed at a courthouse, public building, forest, park, or public greenway.
In the state of Ohio, aggravated arson has to do with physically harming or threatening to cause or create substantial physical harm to another person by starting a fire. Burning an occupied building is an example and would be classified as a second-degree felony. Paying an individual to start the fire with the intent to harm is also considered aggravated arson. Aggravated arson charges are extremely serious in Ohio, and prosecutors take every step possible to win a conviction.
Ohio prosecutors can charge aggravated arson at two levels:
- Second-degree felony – Punishable by up to 8 years in prison
- First-degree felony – Punishable by up to 11 years in prison
A second-degree felony is a best-case scenario for aggravated arson charges. You may face second-degree felony charges if an occupied structure was damaged. If your alleged conduct created a substantial risk of serious physical harm to others, or you offered/accepted money to create that risk, you may face first-degree felony charges.
Challenging Arson Charges in Cleveland
In our experience, there is a potential defense to any criminal offense, including arson. Reach out to a Cleveland criminal defense lawyer.
Depending on your case, we may be able to argue the following in the face of arson charges:
- It was an accident
- You were mistakenly identified
- You received consent
- Your rights were violated in some way
Call Patituce & Associates now at {. :P:Sub:Phone}to schedule your first consultation with one of our Cleveland arson defense lawyers. We are here to help you.
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We Know the Legal System
Our criminal defense attorneys understand the legal system and local courts, helping you navigate your case efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.
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We Give You Peace of Mind
Being charged with a crime is overwhelming. With our team on your side, you can focus on your life while an experienced professional handles your defense.
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We Fight For Your Rights
Police and prosecutors sometimes push the limits of the law. We work to protect your rights and prevent unconstitutional evidence from being used against you.
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We Build A Strategic Defense
Fighting criminal charges requires a strong strategy. Our experienced team builds a defense tailored to the specific facts of your case.
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We Work to Mitigate Consequences
One of the main benefits of hiring our Ohio criminal defense attorneys is our ability to help reduce the potential consequences of a conviction.
