NY Penal Law 150.20 - Arson in the First Degree

Intentionally setting fire to buildings or vehicles can have devastating consequences. In New York, arson involving explosions or intentional damage is charged as a serious felony under Penal Law 150.20. First degree arson carries some of the harshest penalties under New York law. A conviction can result in decades behind bars. So these charges should never be taken lightly. If you've been accused of arson in the first degree, continue reading to better understand the law, possible defenses, and why you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side.

The Law - NY Penal Code 150.20

New York Penal Law 150.20 states that a person is guilty of arson in the first degree when they:

Intentionally damage a building or vehicle by causing an explosion or fire
And the explosion or fire either:
- Causes serious physical injury to another person
- Occurs in an occupied building with reckless disregard for human life

Arson laws are intended to deter and punish the dangerous destruction of property. First degree arson involves severe harm or risk of harm to people.

Penalties if Convicted of Arson in NY

Arson in the first degree is a Class A felony in New York. Potential penalties include:

15 to 25 years in state prison, up to life imprisonment
Fines up to $50,000
Post-release supervision for 5 years or more
Restitution to victims for property damage and injuries

Judges determine sentences after conviction based on factors like criminal history. But these are very severe potential penalties.

Building an Effective Legal Defense

Were you falsely accused or there were mitigating circumstances? An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help fight the charges by:

Challenging the prosecution's evidence
Disputing intent to cause damage or harm
Filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
Negotiating for lesser charges like reckless endangerment

The right defense strategy depends on the specific details of your case.

Why Hire a NY Arson Crimes Attorney?

Don't try to take on first degree arson charges alone. An attorney can provide invaluable help by:

Thoroughly investigating the allegations against you
Assessing any possible weaknesses in the prosecution's case
Advocating for you in negotiations with the district attorney
Navigating the complex criminal justice process
Obtaining experts such as fire investigators if needed

Their skills and experience can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

Finding the Right Arson Lawyer

Look for a New York criminal defense lawyer who:

Focuses specifically on arson and explosives crimes
Has experience defending NY Penal Law 150.20 cases
Is familiar with fire investigations and science
Has a track record of good results in these cases

Take time to research options and choose the right attorney for you.

Don't Delay - Get Legal Help Now

First degree arson charges are nothing to take chances with. If convicted, you face decades behind bars and massive fines. But an aggressive defense lawyer can often get charges reduced pre-trial. If you've been accused of arson in the first degree under NY Penal Law 150.20, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. An expert attorney will protect your rights and build the strongest case possible. With a knowledgeable lawyer negotiating for you, the odds of avoiding harsh penalties improve dramatically. So don't wait to get the legal firepower you need.