Arson Attorney | Bradley Corbett

Why You Need an Arson Attorney?

Defending Against Arson Charges in California – Law Office of Bradley Corbett

Being accused of arson is a serious matter in California, with severe legal consequences that can impact your freedom, reputation, and future. So you will need an arson attorney. Under Penal Code 451, arson is considered a felony offense, and a conviction can result in lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing arson charges in San Diego, El Cajon, Chula Vista, or Oceanside, it is critical to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. At the Law Office of Bradley Corbett, we understand the complexities of arson cases and the importance of building a strong defense. Many arson accusations stem from accidents, misunderstandings, or circumstantial evidence, and we work tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom. Our team will carefully examine the prosecution’s evidence, challenge weak or inconclusive proof, and explore all possible defense strategies to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Understanding Penal Code 451 – The Elements of Arson

To secure a conviction under Penal Code 451, the prosecution must prove that the defendant willfully and maliciously set fire to, burned, or caused the burning of a structure, forest land, or property. Arson can be committed in several ways, including:

Burning a building, vehicle, or property with intent
Setting fire to forest land
Using fire to destroy personal or public property
Committing arson with the intent to harm or defraud (such as insurance fraud cases)

To obtain a conviction, prosecutors must establish four key elements:

The fire was intentionally set – Accidental fires do not qualify as arson.
There was malicious intent – The act must have been deliberate and not an accident.
Property was damaged or destroyed – Even partial burning can qualify as arson.
The defendant was responsible – Prosecutors must prove the accused was the one who set the fire.

If any of these elements are missing or unclear, the case against you weakens, and our legal team can use this to your advantage.

Penalties for Arson in California

The severity of punishment for arson depends on what was burned and whether there were injuries or fatalities. Under Penal Code 451, arson is always a felony offense, but penalties vary depending on the circumstances:

Arson of Personal Property – Up to 3 years in state prison
Arson of a Structure or Forest Land – 2 to 6 years in prison
Arson Causing Great Bodily Injury – 5 to 9 years in prison
Arson of an Inhabited Structure – 3 to 8 years in prison

Additional penalties may include heavy fines, restitution to victims, probation, parole, and even lifetime registration as an arson offender. If aggravating factors exist, such as prior criminal history, use of accelerants, or reckless endangerment of human life, sentencing can be enhanced significantly.

How We Defend Clients Accused of Arson

If you are facing arson charges in San Diego, El Cajon, Chula Vista, or Oceanside, it is crucial to have a skilled defense attorney who understands how to challenge the prosecution’s case. At the Law Office of Bradley Corbett, we use several proven defense strategies to fight arson allegations, including:

1. The Fire Was Accidental

One of the most effective defenses is proving that the fire was not intentional. Many fires occur due to electrical malfunctions, accidents, or natural causes, and without evidence of intent, an arson charge cannot stand.

2. Insufficient or Faulty Evidence

Arson investigations often rely on circumstantial evidence, flawed fire science, or weak witness testimony. If the evidence lacks credibility or scientific accuracy, we can challenge it and seek a case dismissal or reduced charges.

3. Mistaken Identity or False Accusation

Many arson cases are built on witness misidentifications or false accusations, especially when there is no direct evidence linking a defendant to the fire. If law enforcement wrongfully arrested you based on an unreliable witness or misleading forensic evidence, we will aggressively challenge their claims.

4. Violation of Constitutional Rights

If law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation, arrest, or interrogation, we may be able to suppress key evidence and weaken the prosecution’s case. This includes illegal searches, coerced confessions, or failure to read your Miranda rights.

5. Lack of Intent or Malice

To convict under Penal Code 451, the prosecution must prove that the fire was set willfully and maliciously. If you had no intent to cause harm, your charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Why Choose the Law Office of Bradley Corbett as your Arson Attorney ?

If you have been charged with arson in San Diego, El Cajon, Chula Vista, or Oceanside, you need an attorney who understands fire investigations, forensic evidence, and criminal defense strategies. At the Law Office of Bradley Corbett, we provide:

Aggressive and Experienced Representation – We know how to challenge weak evidence and protect your rights.
Personalized Defense Strategies – Every case is unique, and we tailor our defense approach to your specific circumstances.
24/7 Legal Support – Arson charges can be stressful and urgent. We are available anytime to answer your questions and concerns.
A Proven Track Record – Our firm has successfully defended clients in San Diego, El Cajon, Chula Vista, and Oceanside, helping them avoid wrongful convictions.

Bradley R. Corbett_Criminal Defense Attorney_Arson Attorney

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one is facing arson charges, do not wait to seek legal help. A conviction under Penal Code 451 can have life-altering consequences, but with the right legal defense, you may be able to reduce or dismiss the charges. At the Law Office of Bradley Corbett, we are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate this challenging legal battle. 📍 Serving clients throughout San Diego County, including El Cajon, Chula Vista, and Oceanside.

619-800-4449 760-201-9839 Contact Us Now!

San Diego Arson Attorney

Arson is a felony in San Diego

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