Arson is defined as deliberately and willfully setting fire to a property, or aiding, counseling, or procuring the burning of a property. Arson is a felony offense in the state of Nevada and carries harsh penalties. If you are accused of committing arson, it is imperative that you retain an expert Las Vegas arson defense attorney as soon as possible.
Our Las Vegas criminal defense lawyers at De Castroverde Law Group have defended hundreds of clients in Clark County, and we can build a powerful defense against your arson charges.
Arson Charges and Penalties
Potential sentencing for the conviction of arson in Las Vegas will depend upon the degree of the arson offense.
First Degree Arson – Category B Felony
A defendant is guilty of first degree arson (NRS 205.010) if they deliberately or maliciously set fire or help to set fire to any building, house, or mobile home, or personal property that is occupied by one or more person. Conviction is punishable by:
- Incarceration in state prison for 2 to 15 years
- Fines up to $15,000
- Possible reimbursement for costs of putting out the fire and investigations
Second Degree Arson – Category B Felony
A defendant is guilty of second degree arson (NRS 205.015) in Las Vegas if they deliberately or maliciously set fire or help to set fire to any abandoned structure or building, even if the property belongs to the defendant. Conviction is punishable by:
- Incarceration in state prison for 1 to 10 years
- Fines up to $10,000
- Possible reimbursement for costs of putting out the fire and investigations
Third Degree Arson – Category D Felony
A defendant is guilty of third degree arson (NRS 205.020) in Las Vegas if they deliberately or maliciously set fire or help to set fire to another person’s unoccupied personal property which is valued at $25 or more; an unoccupied property owned by the defendant that another person has legal interest in; or any forest, crops, grass, vegetation, shrubbery, timber, or flammable material that does not belong to the defendant. Conviction is punishable by:
- Incarceration in state prison for 1 to 4 years
- Fines up to $5,000
- Possible reimbursement for costs of putting out the fire and investigations
Fourth Degree Arson – Category D Felony
A defendant is guilty of fourth degree arson (NRS 205.025; NRS 205.055) in Las Vegas if they deliberately or maliciously attempt to set fire to any of the property included in first degree, second degree, or third degree arson laws. Conviction is punishable by:
- Incarceration in state prison for 1 to 4 years
- Fines up to $5,000
Charged with arson in Las Vegas, Nevada?
Our proven criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of the criminally accused, and we can help you fight arson charges. Through our detailed knowledge of Nevada’s criminal code and extensive preparation, we can build a comprehensive defense that aggressively challenges the charges brought against you.
Conviction will affect your freedom, relationships, and future, so you should be confident that your Las Vegas arson defense attorney has the experience and courtroom skill needed to effectively represent your case. What are you waiting for? Contact our firm today to discuss your case and legal options.