Little Rock Arson Lawyer

Little Rock Arson Attorney

Facing arson charges in Arkansas is a serious deal, and it’s important that you understand your rights under the law. That way, you can be sure you’re being treated fairly as you navigate your legal case. A Little Rock arson lawyer can help you with this and so much more. At Lemley Law Partners, we have experience handling all types of criminal cases in Arkansas, including arson charges at every level.

What Is Considered Arson in Little Rock, AR?

Arson is a serious property crime that involves willfully starting a fire to burn any kind of property, including structures and the land itself. Arson is almost always treated as a felony, though the level of the felony depends on the circumstances of the incident. For instance, you can expect to face harsher penalties if someone is seriously injured or killed as a result. In Arkansas, felony convictions can remain on your criminal record indefinitely unless felony are expunged under specific conditions.

Aggravated arson is an even more serious charge that an offender can receive. This type of charge is usually brought to the table if the offender had a previous arson conviction on their record or if the extent of the damage was severe enough.

All this being said, it’s still possible to be charged with a misdemeanor, depending on the severity of the damages. A person is considered to have committed arson if they purposely start a fire or explosion to damage or destroy:

• Another person’s property, including motor vehicles and occupiable structures
• Any dedicated property that is used as a church or place of worship
• Any property for the purpose of collecting insurance
• A public facility
• Areas of real property allocated for the commercial growth of agricultural products

It is also considered arson in Arkansas to cause a fire or explosion recklessly while committing a felony or after fleeing a felony and damaging or destroying any of the above structures or land.

Typical Penalties for Arson in Little Rock

Arson can be considered a Class A misdemeanor or a felony at any level, depending on the value of the property damaged and whether anyone was seriously or fatally injured. Typically, you can expect the following sentences and fines for felony arson in Arkansas:

• Class Y: 10-40 years to life
• Class A: six to 30 years and up to $15,000
• Class B: five to 20 years and up to $15,000
• Class C: three to 10 years and up to $10,000
• Class D: zero to six years and up to $10,000

Misdemeanor arson convictions can also result in jail time, but a Little Rock arson lawyer can potentially help you secure probation or some other public service as an alternative.

A Look at Arson Crimes in Arkansas

There were 304 cases of arson reported in Arkansas in 2024, which is 40 fewer cases than the year prior. Little Rock PD reported 58 arson cases alone, and North Little Rock PD reported another 10 cases in 2023. Arson can cause severe damage to property and potentially injure innocent people.

The projected cost of arson crimes in Little Rock for 2025 is $2,525,544. These costs include:

• Court fees
• Direct costs to the victim
• Law enforcement costs
• Lost economic contributions from offenders
• Medical expenses
• Property damages

Recently, a 36-year-old man was arrested on a count of arson for a fire that occurred at an apartment complex in Little Rock on Valentine’s Day. The fire reportedly left about $50,000 in damages, and the suspect now faces felony charges.

A couple of years ago, another four sentences were handed down pertaining to the torching of police vehicles during a protest in 2020. The four defendants in this case were met with federal sentencing due to the nature of the crime. It’s in these types of situations with aggravating factors that it’s most important to work with a Little Rock arson lawyer.

FAQs

Q: Is Arson a Felony in Little Rock?

A: Arson is almost always charged as a felony throughout Arkansas, including Little Rock. The level of felony offense depends on the severity of the crime. You can be charged with a Class Y, Class A, Class B, Class C, or Class D felony for arson, which may result in time in jail and hefty fines. In cases where the damage was minimal, the offender may be charged with a misdemeanor. This makes it a wobbler crime.

Q: What Is the Strongest Defense Against Arson Charges in Little Rock?

A: Some of the strongest defenses against arson charges in Little Rock involve establishing an alibi, backing that story with witnesses, and challenging the prosecution’s evidence. Your Little Rock arson lawyer may discuss a number of avenues when it comes to the foundation of your defense. Some other common defenses used include insufficient evidence, lack of intent, and mistaken identity.

Q: Is It Worth It to Work With a Little Rock Arson Lawyer?

A: It is completely worth it to work with a Little Rock arson lawyer. While you are not obligated to work with a lawyer, it is highly recommended that you do. Our local criminal defense attorneys at Lemley Law Partners have years of experience handling cases just like yours, and we can use that experience to build a strong defense and work toward a favorable outcome.

Q: What Is the Difference Between Reckless Burning and Arson in Little Rock?

A: Reckless burning is a similar charge that could be considered related to arson, but the two are separate charges. Reckless burning involves purposely causing a fire or explosion and recklessly causing damage due to a disregard for the consequences. Arson is considered to be more intentional. Reckless burning is typically classified as a Class D felony in Arkansas, while arson can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony.

Discuss Your Case With a Little Rock Arson Lawyer Today

With Lemley Law Partners on your side, you can have peace of mind knowing your case is being handled by skilled professionals who are committed to helping you secure a fair outcome for your case. If you’re ready to learn more, reach out to set up an appointment and talk to a Little Rock arson lawyer today.