As a parent, your primary concern is the well-being of your children, particularly during the challenging teenage years. Receiving a visit from law enforcement to inform you that your child has been involved in an act of arson can be devastating.
Now you’re looking to find a way to make sure this doesn’t impact your child’s future. It’s time to consider the next steps you should take.
The next steps: Understanding the charges
Arson is defined legally as the intentional and malicious act of setting fire to property, meaning an individual purposefully ignited the fire with the intent to cause damage.
Arson is a serious offense, as fire can be highly unpredictable. What might start out as a seemingly harmless act of teenage rebellion can lead to severe and lasting consequences. In the most severe cases, first-degree arson can result in a prison sentence of up to 30 years and/or fines reaching up to $50,000.
The repercussions of starting a fire depend upon the extent of the damage caused and the intent behind the act. Factors such as if the fire was lit with malicious intent versus being an accident or an act of recklessness play a role in determining the punishment. Penalties may be reduced if the financial damage was minimal and no individuals were endangered
Very few states have misdemeanor arson laws, but Maryland classifies cases where damage is less than $1,000 it’s as a second-degree misdemeanor. That can lead to up to 18 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
The consequences of arson can be severe and no one wants to discover that your teenager could be involved in such an act, But confronting this situation head-on is critical. Seeking legal guidance is essential for securing the best possible outcomes for your teenager’s case.