Fort Worth Arson Defense Lawyer

Skilled Defense Attorney Representing Clients Accused of Arson in Fort Worth, Texas

Arson charges can have serious implications for your freedom in Texas. Depending on whether or not anyone was hurt, as well as the type of structure involved, a conviction of this offense could result in decades in prison. If you or somebody you love has been accused of this crime, reach out to a Fort Worth, TX arson defense attorney.

At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we come prepared to every case with a robust defense strategy tailored to the needs of each client. Our defense lawyer has years of experience and hundreds of positive reviews from past clients, which has earned him a trusted reputation across the Fort Worth area.

How Does Texas Define Arson?

Arson in Texas involves starting a fire or causing an explosion under circumstances that put property or people at risk. The fire does not need to keep burning after it starts for the charge to apply. Texas law covers several different situations, and each one has its own requirements.

The most common form of arson involves starting a fire or explosion in order to destroy or damage property. This can include vegetation, fences, or structures on open land, as well as a building, home, or vehicle. For a building, home, or vehicle, the state must show additional facts, such as knowing the property was inside city limits, was insured, had a mortgage, or belonged on someone else's property. A person can also be charged if they acted recklessly about whether the fire would hurt someone else or damage their property.

Arson charges can also apply when someone recklessly starts a fire or explosion while making or trying to make illegal drugs, and the fire damages a building, home, or vehicle. Another form of arson involves intentionally starting a fire or explosion that recklessly damages someone else's building or causes injury or death.

What Are the Penalties for Arson Under Texas Law?

Arson is generally a second-degree felony in Texas, carrying two to 20 years in prison as well as a fine of no more than $10,000. The charge becomes a first-degree felony if someone suffered bodily injury or died as a result of the fire, or if the targeted property was a home or a place of assembly or worship. A first-degree felony can lead to five to 99 years of incarceration, or possibly life.

Arson connected to drug manufacturing, or an intentional fire that recklessly damages a building or injures someone, is usually a state jail felony. A state jail felony can lead to 180 days to two years in a state jail facility. If someone was injured or killed in one of these cases, the charge rises to a third-degree felony, punishable by two to 10 years in prison. A court may also order restitution to cover property damage.

Legal Strategies for a Fort Worth Arson Charge

Building a strong defense for a Fort Worth arson charge requires a detailed examination of how the fire started and what the accused person intended. Texas law recognizes certain situations where starting a fire is not a crime. A controlled burn of open land, such as clearing brush or managing pastureland, is an exception to arson charges involving vegetation or structures on open-space land.

Written permission can also serve as a defense. If you obtained the right permit before starting a fire within an approved area, that approval may defeat the charge.

Disputing intent is often central to an arson defense. Many fires begin by accident, whether from faulty wiring, a cooking mishap, a space heater, or careless disposal of a cigarette. Fire investigators can reach the wrong conclusions about the cause or origin of a fire. Our attorney can work with independent fire science experts to review the investigation, burn patterns, and lab results. Evidence obtained through an unlawful search or a flawed interrogation may also be challenged.

Contact a Fort Worth, TX Arson Defense Attorney

An arson accusation can carry the possibility of decades in prison. At The Meza Law Firm, PLLC, we investigate the facts behind the fire and work to protect your freedom. Contact our Fort Worth, Texas arson defense lawyer or call 817-732-6392 to arrange a free consultation today.