Arson
Build a Strong Defense
Arson is the criminal act of intentionally setting fire to property, whether it's a building, vehicle, or land. In Michigan, arson is a serious felony offense that can carry severe penalties, including prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you’ve been accused of arson, it’s critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney who can challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Defending Against Arson Charges
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
Being charged with arson is a serious matter, and a conviction can lead to long-term consequences including prison time, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. At The Nunley Law Group, our criminal defense attorneys take a strategic, thorough approach to defending clients accused of arson. Here's how we can help:
1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
We start by meeting with you to understand your side of the story. We’ll review the charges, explain the legal process, and begin assessing the facts. This includes gathering any documentation, police reports, and witness statements available at the start of the case.
2. Investigating the Evidence
Arson cases often rely heavily on forensic evidence, such as fire origin analysis, accelerant detection, and surveillance footage. Our team will:
Scrutinize the fire investigation reports
Consult with independent fire experts when necessary
Identify any flaws, inconsistencies, or alternative explanations
Examine whether your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest
3. Challenging the Prosecution's Case
We will carefully examine the prosecution’s case for weaknesses. For example, we may:
Argue that the fire was accidental or caused by another party
Challenge the credibility of witnesses or investigators
Question the validity of expert testimony or lab results
Suppress evidence if obtained illegally or without a warrant
4. Exploring Legal Defenses
Every case is unique, but common legal defenses in arson cases may include:
Lack of intent (the fire was not set deliberately)
Mistaken identity
Alibi (you were not present at the time of the fire)
Insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
5. Negotiation and Resolution Options
Depending on the circumstances, we may seek to:
Get charges reduced or dismissed
Negotiate a plea agreement in your best interest
Pursue alternative sentencing options where applicable
6. Aggressive Representation at Trial
If your case proceeds to trial, we’ll be fully prepared to defend you in court. Our attorneys will present compelling arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and work to cast doubt on the prosecution’s narrative.