Annapolis and Baltimore Arson Attorney
Arson is a serious felony in Maryland and can result in a lengthy prison sentence if you are convicted. The early involvement of an attorney is essential to protect your future.
My name is Jim Crawford. For the past 18 years, I have defended people charged with misdemeanor and felony property crimes, such as arson and malicious burning. I serve clients throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, Catonsville, Annapolis and Bel Air.
What Is Arson?
Arson is intentionally and maliciously setting fire to a structure or a place such as a woods or vacant lot. There are two degrees of arson:
- First-degree arson is setting fire to an occupied structure or place.
- Second-degree arson is setting fire to an unoccupied structure or place. You can be charged with second-degree arson if you burn your own building to collect insurance.
Both first- and second-degree arson are serious felony charges. Setting fire to a building or place can also be charged as malicious burning, a less serious offense. If you cause more than $1,000 in damage, you may be charged with first-degree malicious burning, which is a felony. If you cause less than $1,000 in damage, you may be charged with second-degree malicious burning, which is a misdemeanor.
When Minors Are Charged With Arson
A minor accused of arson faces the risk of being charged as an adult and the potential of a long prison sentence. Whenever a minor is accused of a serious crime, my goal as his or her lawyer is to keep the case in juvenile court, where the emphasis is on rehabilitation instead of incarceration.
Contact Me
To protect your future, contact me, Maryland arson charges attorney Jim Crawford, before you talk to police or anyone else. I am available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. I offer a free initial consultation. To contact me, call 443-701-4525 or 866-635-0623.
