By calling Hayes Law Firm, PLLC, immediately upon finding out you are being charged or are suspect in an arson case in Nashua, NH, you set yourself up for success since the timing surrounding arson cases are so critical. Due to the fleeting nature of the evidence at the scene of potentially arson-related crimes, having a knowledgeable New Hampshire Arson Defense Attorney on your side can be a game-changer. To explore the options you may have when it comes to defending yourself in a case of potential arson, call as soon as possible to schedule an initial consultation.
The Hayes Law Firm team, PLLC, is experienced in handling arson investigations and has the tools and expertise to help you find a solution to the potentially life-altering situation in which you have found yourself. Police and fire officials are expertly trained in examining the scene of potentially arson-related fires, no matter how severe the fire may have been. While specific thresholds may aggravate or decrease the charges, a fire of any size and level of destruction can be charged under arson law. Even fires set accidentally have gotten their kindlers charged with hefty fines and even time spent incarcerated.
While the intent to cause damage can certainly cause more severe penalties or a greater chance at conviction, it is not necessary to charge an individual. However, if proven, the standard penalties associated with the level of damage caused by the fires can be significantly increased, landing you in a different bracket of punishment. Therefore, speaking with one of the Best Arson Defense Lawyers in Nashua, NH, is imperative to better understand your position and the potential consequences for your situation.
The odds of navigating the complex marriage of science and law involved in a case of arson successfully without the aid of expert counsel are highly inadvisable. While it is technically possible to represent yourself in these cases, the chances for your consequences to be harsh and judgment to be swift skyrocket. By hiring Hayes Law Firm, PLLC, you can rest assured that your case will be handled with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity. Since it has such a significant potential to alter the rest of your life, it is critical to give yourself the best possible chance at a successful defense that is available in your situation.
As mentioned previously, time is of the essence in cases of potential arson in which you are a suspect. From the moment you learn of the incident, calling an attorney familiar with the Law of Arson in Nashua, NH, should be your first move. From there, the team at Hayes Law Firm, PLLC, can advise you on how to proceed and warn of any common mistakes to avoid. To begin fighting the charges leveled against you in any case of arson, contact the office in Nashua to schedule an initial consultation to discuss the circumstances and the strategies of defense to help resolve the matter.
You are guilty of Arson if you knowingly start a fire or cause an explosion which unlawfully damages the property of another. The State must prove that you acted knowingly. Arson can be charges as either a Felony or a Misdemeanor.
Felony Arson
Arson may be charged as a felony or misdemeanor depending upon the circumstances of the case. Arson is a felony when:
- The property damaged is an occupied or historic structure;
- The property damaged was real estate;
- The property is yours and the fire was started for the purpose of collecting insurance on the property;
- You purposely start a fire on anyone’s property and thereby recklessly place another in danger of death or serious bodily injury;
- The loss caused is in excess of $1,000.
The Arson Investigation
Arson cases are complex – the perfect marriage of law and science. Time is of the essence in Arson cases as potentially exculpatory evidence disappears, gets contaminated or hauled away from the scene.
One of the very first steps in an Arson investigation is to retain a qualified Arson expert to view the scene, preserve evidence and collect samples for laboratory testing.
Important questions to consider in any Arson case include: what was the nature and origin of the fire? Were accidental or natural causes ruled out? Did the State properly collect and preserve the evidence that they are attempting to use against you?
CALL US! If you are facing an Arson charge, we urge you to call asap. Attorney Justin Hayes is an experienced criminal defense lawyer ready to fight for you.