INDIANAPOLIS ARSON LAWYERS

Aggressive and Goal-Oriented Attorneys with 25 years of Combined Experience

If you have been accused of committing arson, do not hesitate to reach out to an experienced defense lawyer for legal support. The attorneys at Gemma & Karimi, LLP have been advocating for clients for 25 years collectively, and they bring significant experience as former prosecutors and long-time private defenders. They will sit down with you to outline your goals for your case and develop an aggressive strategy to fight for those goals.

Schedule a free consultation with Gemma & Karimi, LLP to discuss your arson defense options.

What Is a Crime of Arson?

Arson is the crime of deliberately setting fires to or detonating explosives in buildings, wildlife areas, or other structures, resulting in property damage and even personal injury. Most arson crimes are charged as felonies, though less severe arson crimes are “wobblers” that may be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances. Note that a person may be charged with a separate offense for each individual who suffers bodily injury caused by the act of arson.

Is Arson a Felony in Indiana? 

Arson can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, but the consequences are serious in both instances. Arson can be considered a felony in Indiana. The state classifies arson as a serious crime, and the specific felony level can vary based on factors such as the intent, the amount of damage caused, and whether the act endangered human life. Penalties can include significant prison time and fines.

Level 2 Felony

Indiana law categorizes arson into several felony levels, with Level 2 being the most severe. More specifically, a crime of arson will be charged at the Level 2 Felony level if it results in serious bodily injury to any person other than the defendant. The penalties will depend on the circumstances of the case and the defendant’s criminal history, but Level 2 arson is generally punishable by:

• 10-30 years in prison;
• up to $10,000 in fines.

Level 3 Felony

Arson for hire, typically a Level 4 felony, is a Level 3 felony if the arson results in bodily injury to any other person. Level 3 arson is punishable by the following sentencing range:

• 3-16 years in prison;
• up to $10,000 in fines.

Level 4 Felony

Level 4 arson occurs when an individual, by means of fire, an explosive, or a destructive device, knowingly or intentionally damages:

• a dwelling of another person without their consent;
• property of any person under circumstances that endanger human life;
• property of another person without their consent if the pecuniary loss is $5,000 or more;
• a structure used for religious worship without the consent of the owner of the structure.

The penalties for Level 4 arson include:

• 2-12 years in prison;
• up to $10,000 in fines.