Minnesota Arson and Criminal Damage Overview
In most instances, under Minnesota law, crimes against property such as criminal damage and arson are less serious than crimes against people. However, this does not mean that criminal damage charges should be taken lightly. These criminal charges are punishable by jail sentences, fines, court costs and restitution and will most definitely remain a part of your permanent Minnesota criminal record. And arson is one of the most extreme property crimes. If you are facing arson or similar charges call Chmielewski Law Office toll free at 866-446-6529 for a consultation today.
Whether the arson or Minnesota property damage was an accident or something you planned but now regret, choosing the right criminal defense attorney could be the most important decision you make when facing a criminal prosecution. You want someone who has the knowledge and experience to handle whatever may come their way at trial. Or, even if you are looking for a deal, you want someone who knows what the best possible plea would be in your situation. And you always need someone who will be an advocate for you, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.
Chmielewski Law Office can articulate your remorse to the judge, prove that you did not intend the result that occurred and demonstrate how the circumstances that lead to your criminal charge for arson or property damage in an accident. We can put our experience and skills to work for you. Contact Chmielewski Law Office, with offices in Woodbury, Minnesota to learn how we can help you with your arson or damage to property charges today. Call us toll-free at 866-446-6529.
Minnesota Damage to Property Laws & Penalties
Damage to Property - First Degree Penalties
Damage to property in the first degree is a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and fines reaching $10,000. You may be charged with this offense if you cause damage to someone else's property without their consent and:
- The damage caused a reasonably foreseeable risk of bodily harm;
- The property belonged to a common carrier and the damage prevents use;
- The value of damage is greater than $1,000; or
- The damage is valued at more than $500 and you have been previously convicted of this offense within the last 3 years.
Damage to Property - Second Degree Penalties
Slightly less serious, 2nd degree damage to property is also a felony but only punishable by up to 1 years in prison and fines reaching $3,000. If you damage property that doesn't fit the criteria for 1st degree criminal damage but is done because of the owner's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or disability, you could be charged with this felony offense.
Damage to Property - Third Degree Penalties
If you damage someone else's property without their consent and the damage is valued at more than $500 and less than $1,000 you may face 3rd degree criminal damage charges and up to one year in prison and $3,000 in fines as well as a gross misdemeanor conviction on your record.
Damage to Property - Fourth Degree Penalties
If the value of damage is less than $500, the offense is 4th degree damage to property and considered a misdemeanor. This misdemeanor offense is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and fines reaching $1,000.
See Minnesota Damage to Property Laws at Minnesota Statutes 609.591 through 609.595
Minnesota Arson Laws & Penalties
Arson Penalties
Arson laws in Minnesota are very complex and confusing. If you are charged with arson you could be facing anywhere from 90 days to 20 years in prison along with hefty fines. So many factors influence your charge and potential sentence that you are recommended to contact an attorney to get a good idea of what type of sentence you may be facing for your charge. Things like your intent, the type of property that was burned, and what was used to burn the property are all important factors in determining the charges you will face and the subsequent potential sentence.
See Minnesota Arson Laws at Minnesota Statutes 609.561 through 609.5641
Free Case Evaluation on any Minnesota Arson or Property Damage Criminal Charge
People who have been recently arrested in Minnesota for arson or property damage need to talk to a Minnesota criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The most urgent priority is often getting a lawyer to help arrange release and provide some information about what's to come in the days ahead. When people are accused of an arson or property damage crime, they face the terrible possibility of going to jail. A good attorney can represent anyone committed with a crime to the best of his or her ability. They can negotiate with prosecutors and can often arrange for reduced charges or lesser sentencing.
Because Minnesota arson and property crime laws are extensive and complex, it is important to get the analysis of a experienced criminal defense attorney. Contact Chmielewski Law Office, with offices in Woodbury, Minnesota to learn how we can help you with your arson or damage to property charges today. Call us toll-free at 866-446-6529.
