Arson Offense Savannah GA Criminal lawyers
GA criminal defense attorneys
Arson is a crime of general intent which means that arson was committed “willfully and maliciously.” All that is necessary for an arson charge is evidence that the individual intentionally started the fire. The criminal intent with arson is purpose to start a fire, although there is no intent to burn a structure. A fire inspector must then testify in court that he/she also suspected arson, and then an expert witness must testify to support the fire inspectors views.
Arson is classified into 1st degree (homes, schools, churches), 2nd degree (unoccupied structures, vehicles), and 3rd degree (personal property). Because arson is a crime against possession, not ownership, a person can be charged with burning their own house, or committing arson against themselves.
An individual assisting with the crime is generally charged with arson rather than being an accomplice to the crime. Pouring gasoline on the floor of a building or possessing firebombs might be offenses related to arson under certain state laws. Arson that involves damage to federal property is almost always prosecuted in federal court, and also anything involving interstate or foreign transport.
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Savannah GA DUI Lawyer – Georgia Criminal Defense Attorney
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