Tennessee Criminal Lawyer Blog

A charge of arson in Tennessee will have serious consequences attached to the outcome of the case. If you are dealing with an arson or aggravated arson charge in Tennessee, it is very important to consult an experienced attorney. A Tennessee Criminal Law Attorney will help you understand and analyze the charges against you. This will be the first step in getting your life back to order.

According to Tennessee law, a person commits arson when that person knowingly damages any structure by means of fire or explosion:

• without the consent of all persons who have a possessory, proprietary or security interest therein; or

• with intent to destroy or damage any structure to collect insurance for the damage or destruction or for any unlawful purpose.

This type of arson is considered to be a Class C felony in Tennessee. Arson in a place of worship is elevated to a Class B felony. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-14-301 (2007). Arson may become aggravated in certain situations. According to the Tennessee Code Annotated, an individual commits aggravated arson when that person commits arson:

• With one (1) or more persons present inside; or

• When any person, including firefighters and law enforcement officials, suffers serious bodily injury as a result of the fire or explosion. Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-14-302 (2007).

Aggravated arson is Class A felony. If you’ve been charged with either arson or aggravated arson in Tennesse, consulting an experienced Criminal Lawyer can help you understand your legal options and resolve your situation in the best manner available.