Warning: Constant MCF_PERF_DELAY_JS already defined in /home/staging_wklaw/www/wp-config.php on line 95 San Diego Arson Lawyers: Orange County Arson Attorneys
Defendant Lacked the Requisite Intent to Commit Arson
Under California Arson law, the defendant must have set the fire willfully and maliciously. In order to be convicted of this crime, the prosecution must prove that the defendant's illegal act or omission occurred intentionally and without regard to motive or ignorance of the act's prohibited character. The specific intent to set fire to or burn or cause to be burned the relevant structure or forest land is not an element of arson. As such, the prosecution must show that the person knew what he or she was doing, intended to do it, and was acting as a free agent without coercion in setting any relevant structure on fire.
The Defendant Caused the Fire, but it was an Accident
If the fire was a result of an accident, then the defendant cannot be convicted of felony arson. In fact if we can establish that the fire was the result of an accident then this can result in our client being acquitted or the charges dismissed.
If it can be shown that the fire was started "accidentally" then in order for the accused to be found guilty of misdemeanor arson the prosecution must show each of the following:
1.That the accused was aware that his or her actions presented a substantial and unjustifiable risk of causing a fire;
2.That the defendant ignored that risk; and
3.That ignoring the risk was a gross deviation from what a reasonable person would have done in the same situation.
Intoxication May be a Defense to Arson
Arson is a general intent crime. Therefore, voluntary intoxication is not a legal defense to arson. In fact, the law emphasizes a strong relationship between alcohol intoxication and arson, and it would be anomalous to allow evidence of intoxication to relieve a person of responsibility for this crime. However, involuntary intoxication is a legal defense to this crime, and the defendant may be allowed to offer such evidence to negate the element of intent.
Call Wallin and Klarich today at (877) 466-5245. We will be there when you call.
California Criminal Defense Lawyer Disclaimer: The legal information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice, nor should it be considered the formation of a lawyer or attorney-client relationship. Any case results presented on the site are based upon the facts of a particular case and do not represent a promise or guarantee. The contents of this website may contain legal advertising. If you would like to find out more information about your particular legal matter, contact our office for a free telephonic consultation. This web site is not intended to solicit clients for matters outside of the state of California.
