First and Second-Degree Arson Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland
Experienced Defense Against First and Second-Degree Arson Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with first-degree arson or second-degree arson in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face serious felony charges under Maryland Criminal Law §§ 6-102 and 6-103. First-degree arson involves willfully and maliciously setting fire to or burning a dwelling or a structure in which a non-participant is present. Second-degree arson involves willfully and maliciously setting fire to or burning any structure. Prosecutors in Baltimore County treat these charges with the utmost seriousness, and a conviction can result in decades of imprisonment, substantial fines, a permanent criminal record, and collateral consequences that affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing first and second-degree arson charges throughout Baltimore County. With more than a decade of dedicated service defending clients in Towson, Essex, Catonsville, and surrounding communities, our firm focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and protecting your future with thoughtful, personalized advocacy.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
A first or second-degree arson charge in Baltimore County requires prompt, compassionate legal guidance. The earlier you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and explore all available options.
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve under Maryland Criminal Law §§ 6-102 and 6-103.
What Is First and Second-Degree Arson Under Maryland Law?
Maryland law defines arson through two primary statutes:
- First-Degree Arson (§ 6-102): A person may not willfully and maliciously set fire to or burn a dwelling or a structure in or on which an individual who is not a participant is present.
- Second-Degree Arson (§ 6-103): A person may not willfully and maliciously set fire to or burn a structure that belongs to the person or to another.
“Willfully” means acting intentionally, knowingly, and purposely. “Maliciously” means acting with the intent to harm others or their property. “Burning” requires actual combustion or charring by fire; the slightest burning of any part of the structure is sufficient. A “dwelling” is a structure adapted for overnight accommodation. It is not a defense that the accused owns the property.
Penalties for First and Second-Degree Arson in Baltimore County
Both offenses are felonies with severe penalties:
- First-Degree Arson: Imprisonment not exceeding 30 years or a fine not exceeding $50,000, or both.
- Second-Degree Arson: Imprisonment not exceeding 20 years or a fine not exceeding $30,000, or both.
Convictions carry mandatory restitution, long-term probation or parole supervision, and significant collateral consequences.
Strong Defenses to First and Second-Degree Arson Charges
At Shepard Law, we meticulously review every aspect of the State’s evidence to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Lack of willful or malicious intent
- Insufficient evidence of actual burning or combustion
- Accident, negligence, or absence of criminal intent
- Unlawful search and seizure of evidence or the scene
- Mistaken identity or insufficient proof of involvement
- Challenges to the identification of the structure as a dwelling
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each case with care and attention, working closely with clients to pursue dismissal, reduction of charges, or another favorable outcome.
Why Choose Shepard Law for Arson Defense in Baltimore County
Stephen P. Shepard is a respected Baltimore County criminal defense attorney recognized by Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star,” Avvo with a 10.0 “Superb” rating, Martindale-Hubbell as a “Client Champion Platinum,” and The National Trial Lawyers as a “Top 40 Under 40.” He is an active member of the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association and regularly appears in Baltimore County courts.
Our Towson office, located at 303 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Towson, MD 21204, serves clients across Baltimore County. At Shepard Law, you receive client-centered and compassionate representation focused on your individual needs and long-term well-being.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve.