Arson Charges in Maryland: What You Need to Know

In Maryland, arson is treated as a serious property crime that carries severe penalties, including lengthy imprisonment and significant fines. Understanding the types of arson charges, potential defenses, and how to fight these allegations is essential for anyone facing accusations of deliberately setting fire to property.

If you’re charged with arson in Maryland, you’ll need experienced legal representation. The skilled criminal defense attorneys at FrizWoods can help defend your rights and freedom.

Types of Arson in Maryland

Maryland law defines several degrees of arson, each involving different elements and punishments:

First-Degree Arson (Maryland Criminal Law Section 6-102)

First-degree arson involves intentionally setting fire to or burning a dwelling or occupied structure. The severity of this charge comes from the significant risk to human life.

Penalty: First-degree arson is a felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison and/or fines up to $50,000.

Second-Degree Arson (Maryland Criminal Law Section 6-103)

Second-degree arson applies when a person intentionally burns or sets fire to a structure that is not occupied, such as commercial buildings, cars, boats, or other unoccupied property.

Penalty: Second-degree arson is a felony punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment and/or fines up to $30,000.

Malicious Burning (Maryland Criminal Law Section 6-104)

Malicious burning involves intentionally burning someone else’s personal property. The penalties depend on the value of the property:

Property worth $1,000 or more: Up to 5 years imprisonment and/or $5,000 fine.
Property worth less than $1,000: Up to 18 months imprisonment and/or $500 fine.

Burning with Intent to Defraud (Maryland Criminal Law Section 6-106)

This charge involves setting fire to property -typically one’s own- to collect insurance proceeds or otherwise defraud another party.

Penalty: Up to 5 years imprisonment and/or fines up to $5,000.

Common Defenses to Arson Charges in Maryland

If you’re accused of arson, an effective legal defense strategy can significantly impact your case’s outcome. Common defenses include:

Lack of Intent: Arson requires proving intentional or malicious burning. Accidental fires are not criminal arson.
Insufficient Evidence: Prosecutors must clearly establish that you set the fire intentionally. Challenging the prosecution’s evidence, such as eyewitness credibility or forensic methods, may weaken their case.
Mistaken Identity: Arson charges often rely on circumstantial evidence or eyewitness testimony, which can lead to misidentification or false accusations.
Alibi Defense: If you were elsewhere when the crime occurred, providing an alibi defense can help demonstrate your innocence.
Duress or Coercion: If you were forced or threatened into committing the act, duress could be a valid defense.

Consequences Beyond Criminal Penalties

Besides legal penalties, a conviction for arson in Maryland may lead to lasting personal consequences, including:

Permanent criminal record
Difficulty obtaining employment or housing
Loss of professional licenses or certifications
Civil liability for property damages

Why You Need a Maryland Criminal Defense Attorney

Arson charges are aggressively prosecuted, and the stakes are high. Working with an experienced Maryland criminal lawyer at FrizWoods is critical. Our attorneys can:

Carefully evaluate your case and available evidence
Negotiate aggressively for reduced charges or dismissal
Build a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation
Fight tirelessly at trial to defend your rights

Facing criminal charges without competent legal representation is risky -don’t gamble with your freedom.

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Charged with Arson? Contact FrizWoods Today.

If you’re facing arson allegations, act quickly to protect your future. The defense attorneys at FrizWoods have successfully defended countless clients accused of serious crimes. We understand the stakes, and we’re ready to fight for you.

Contact FrizWoods today for a confidential consultation.

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