Arson is a serious criminal offense in Loveland and Fort Collins, Colorado, and being charged with this crime can have life-altering consequences. Whether it’s due to an accident or intentional behavior, a conviction can lead to severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you or someone you know is facing Arson charges in Larimer County, Colorado, it’s essential to understand the details of the law and the legal defense strategies available.
Fort Collins Arson Lawyer: What is Arson in Colorado?
In Colorado, arson is defined as the act of intentionally setting fire to property or structures, or causing a fire to spread to property or structures, that causes damage. Arson can involve various types of property, including buildings, forests, or even vehicles. The law distinguishes between different degrees of arson based on the severity of the offense and the level of harm caused.
The Different Degrees of Arson in Estes Park, Colorado
Colorado law categorizes arson into different degrees, each carrying varying penalties:
First-Degree Arson (C.R.S. 18-4-102)
First Degree Arson is charged in Fort Collins when a person sets fire to a building or occupied structure, like a home. First Degree Arson is a class 3 felony if it is the Arson of an occupied structure and a class 4 felony if it is a building.
Second Degree Arson (C.R.S. 18-4-103)
Second Degree Arson involves intentionally setting fire to property (not a building or occupied structure like a home) that doesn’t necessarily endanger human life, but still causes damage. In Loveland, Second Degree Arson ranges from a petty offense to a class 2 felony depending on the amount of damage caused.
Third Degree Arson (C.R.S. 18-4-104)
Third Degree Arson typically applies to cases where the defendant is accused of intentionally setting fire (or causing an explosion) to property with the intent to defraud. Third Degree Arson is a class 5 felony in Estes Park.
Fourth Degree Arson (C.R.S. 18-4-105)
Fourth Degree Arson is charged when a person is accused of knowingly or recklessly causing a fire on property, which places someone in danger of death or serious injury. It is also charged if the fire or explosion places a building or home in danger of damage. The amount of property damage determines the charge level. Fourth Degree Arson ranges from a petty offense to a class 2 felony.
Wildland Arson
Arson that causes damage to forests, grasslands, or other wildland areas falls under wildland arson laws in Colorado. This offense often results in more severe penalties, including substantial fines and lengthy prison terms, given the potential for widespread environmental destruction.
Charged with Arson in Larimer County? Call the O’Malley Law Office Today!
Arson is a serious criminal charge in Larimer County, Colorado, and a conviction can have far-reaching consequences. If you or a loved one is facing arson charges, it’s crucial to seek the advice of a skilled criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome.
An experienced lawyer will work tirelessly to uncover weaknesses in the DA’s case, explore all available defenses, and ensure that your rights are protected at every stage of the legal process. Time is of the essence, so don’t delay in seeking legal counsel. Your future may depend on it.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Arson, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-658-0007 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
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