Not all arson cases are treated the same in Maryland. The law recognizes different degrees of arson based on the intent behind the act, the type of property damaged and whether lives were put at risk. This ensures that each case is evaluated according to its severity....
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Arson
Two burning-related offenses you should know about
Maryland has a number of laws around arson and burning. The level of offense and the potential consequences vary based on things like the dollar value of damage done, what was burned and the motivation for the burning. Arson offenses involve intentionally setting fire...
Is burning your own property considered arson?
Maryland prosecutors deal with those charged with arson very strictly. An arson charge is a serious offense that can affect your life adversely in many ways. But what about setting fire to your own property? Can you still wind up in trouble? The short answer is, “It...
Joking about arson can land you in jail
The belief that "words will never hurt me" no longer holds in the eyes of the law. What might seem like harmless banter among friends or a moment of frustration vented online can lead to real arson charges. Even if you did not intend to follow through on your threat,...
Was a fire accidental? Or was it arson?
Determining whether a fire was accidental or the result of arson is a complex process that requires a detailed investigation. For individuals facing accusations of arson in Maryland, understanding how authorities make this determination can influence the ways in which...
Understanding pyromania in arson cases
Arson is a serious crime that leads to extreme losses, including destruction of property, financial hardship and potential loss of life. Various motives for committing arson can include financial gain, revenge, vandalism or even the desire for attention. Pyromania,...
Maryland arson charges: Don’t assume you have no defense options
Arson is treated harshly in America. Due to its potential to cause horrific injuries and massive property destruction, the penalties can be severe. In Maryland, a prison sentence approaching 30 years and fines up to $50,000 is possible for a first-degree arson...
What are the legal elements of arson in Maryland?
Arson charges are serious and can result life-changing consequences if a defendant is convicted of this type of wrongdoing. However, if you are facing such charges, with good legal representation, you can build a solid defense strategy that can help you to work...
Arson and insurance fraud in Maryland
Most everyone has heard stories – or at least seen depictions in the movies on TV – of people who burned down a failing business or a virtually worthless property just to get the insurance money. Unfortunately, that does sometimes happen in real life. Even when...
What types of property may lead to arson charges?
Arson is a criminal offense that involves intentionally starting or spreading a fire to harm others or destroy property. People often view arson as a violent crime because it can cost someone their life if a conflagration spreads fast enough. The average person may...