We Provide a Strong Defense Against Arson Charges
Arson is the deliberate burning of property. After a suspicious fire or explosion, investigators will begin looking for possible causes and you may find yourself suddenly facing charges for a fire you had nothing to do with. You may even be suspected of a fire in your home or property that has consumed many or all of your worldly possessions.
If you or a loved one is suspected or accused of arson, you should not have to face it alone. You need a skilled property crime attorney to defend you. Arson defense lawyer Jason Trumpler has dedicated his practice to representing Texans against criminal charges. Contact us online or call (512) 457-5200. We answer our phones 24 hours a day.
Arson Charges in Texas
An accusation of arson means investigators believe you intentionally started a fire or caused an explosion with the goal of damaging or destroying property. Arson is a felony of the second degree if the alleged offender starts the fire while knowing the property is:
- Within the limits of an incorporated town or city
- Insured against damage or destruction
- Subject to a mortgage
- Located on property belonging to another individual
- Contains property belonging to another person
Punishment for a second degree felony in Texas can range from two to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Certain situations can further increase the penalty for arson. For example, setting fire to a habitation or place of worship is a first degree felony.
In some cases, an intentionally set fire can burn out of control, causing accidental property damage or injuries. In this case, the penalties may be reduced to no more than two years in a state jail facility. The punishments for fires which result in serious injuries or death are much more severe. Depending on the details of your case, you may be facing capital murder charges, the sentence for which is life without parole or death.
Facing an Arson Investigation
After a suspicious fire, local authorities and investigators with the Texas Fire Marshal will conduct an investigation. These investigators use advanced chemical analyses to locate the point of origin and potential cause of the fire. Law enforcement will also look for motives, such as insurance fraud or hate crimes. Multiple agencies may be involved in the investigations, as well as private experts dressed in plain clothes.
At the Law Offices of Jason Trumpler, we treat our clients like family.
If you believe you are being investigated as a potential suspect, it is important to contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Avoid speaking to investigators without your legal representation present. An innocent comment to the wrong person could quickly come back to haunt you.
Why Hire Our Firm?
For over 15 years, attorney Jason Trumpler has successfully defended clients against a range of criminal charges. Our team can help you with everything from posting bail and jail release to aggressive representation in court.
We recognize that everyone makes mistakes. Mr. Trumpler will treat you with respect and concern and keep you informed at every stage of your defense. We treat our clients like family.
Make Sure You Are Protected
If you are involved in an arson investigation, you need an attorney who can protect your rights and defend you in court. Do not hesitate to contact our firm with offices in Austin and Round, Rock, TX, today.
