This is not the time to take arson lightly.
Whether it was an accident or the result of an ill-advised prank, arson is no joke in this state. In drought ravaged California, few crimes are prosecuted with as much vigor and outrage as those related to arson. Arson, as defined by penal codes 451 and 452, is the act of setting fire to buildings, forestlands or the property of another, either recklessly or with willful malice. The penalties that arson carry in the state depend a great deal on the type of property that was burned and on whether any other injuries were sustained. With fires in drought ravaged lands moving easily and quickly, the damages can accumulate fast, as can the potential consequences for the accused.
Stephen R. Kahn has handled and tried over a dozen arson and arson-related matters over 40 years in the state of California. He understands the laws and the landscape, and has seen the penalties for these crimes increase as the potential for damage has escalated. He has obtained not guilty verdicts in complicated arson cases. He also understands that accidents happen and things are not always as they seem. As with every case he handles, Stephen Kahn looks to tell the defendant’s story in a way that will resonate with prosecutors, judges and juries alike. In plea negotiations, he has strong relationships and is a trusted and respected member of the legal community. At trial, he knows to use every opportunity – from jury selection through closing arguments – to make the strongest case for his clients. In his years preparing arson cases, he has worked extensively with, and developed defenses around, the testimony of ex-fire captains as experts. This team has contributed tremendously to his high level of success with these types of cases.
In representing these highly visible and often controversial arson and arson-related cases, Stephen Kahn has handled matters including:
- Malicious Arson (PC 451)
- Reckless Arson/Reckless Burning (PC 452)
- Arson & The Felony Murder Rule (PC 187)
- Arson & Burglary (PC 459)
- Arson & Trespass (PC 602)
- Arson & Insurance Fraud
- Convicted Arson Offender Registration & Failure to Register
When you are accused of acts that are as widely scorned and have as much potential for widespread damage to property and personhood as arson, the attorney you choose is the only person standing between you and extremely grave consequences.
Choose wisely.
If you have been accused of arson or an arson-related offense, contact us for a consultation.