Serving Concord, Cabarrus County & Charlotte
Arson is a serious felony offense in North Carolina involving the intentional and malicious burning of a structure, most commonly a dwelling or residential property. In Concord, Cabarrus County, and Charlotte, arson cases are prosecuted aggressively due to the risk of property loss, injury, or death.
Not every fire is arson. Accidental fires, negligence, or conduct lacking criminal intent do not meet North Carolina’s legal definition of arson. Prosecutors must prove intent, malice, and actual burning, and those elements are often disputed.
If you are under investigation or charged with arson anywhere in Cabarrus County or the Charlotte metro area, you should speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately.
Arson investigations often begin long before an arrest is made. Fire investigators, law enforcement, and insurance companies frequently work together, and suspects may not realize they are being investigated until it is too late.
Attorney Chris Criner represents individuals charged with serious felony offenses throughout Concord, Cabarrus County, and Charlotte, providing strategic, individualized defense in high-stakes criminal cases.
Whether you were:
Wrongfully accused
Involved in a fire determined to be accidental
Charged based on circumstantial or forensic evidence
Facing allegations tied to a domestic, financial, or insurance dispute
early legal representation can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
North Carolina recognizes first-degree and second-degree arson, both requiring proof that:
A dwelling house or residential structure was burned
The structure belonged to another person
There was actual burning or charring (discoloration alone is insufficient)
The defendant acted intentionally and maliciously
Applies when the dwelling was occupied at the time of the fire.
This offense carries mandatory active prison time and severe sentencing exposure.
Applies when the dwelling was unoccupied at the time of the fire.
Still a serious felony with substantial incarceration risk.
Arson applies only to the burning of another person’s dwelling. Burning one’s own property may result in other felony charges, such as insurance fraud, and may still qualify as arson if others were inside the structure.
Arson cases frequently rely on:
Fire origin and cause determinations
Expert testimony
Circumstantial evidence
Witness statements
These elements can often be challenged or discredited.
Potential defense strategies may include:
Lack of intent or malice
Accidental or electrical fire origin
Faulty fire investigation methods
False accusations
Mental health considerations
Constitutional violations during investigation or arrest
Each arson case requires a defense strategy tailored to the specific facts, evidence, and jurisdiction involved.
If you are arrested or questioned in Concord, Cabarrus County, or Charlotte:
You have the right to remain silent
You have the right to an attorney
Do not attempt to explain or justify the situation to law enforcement without legal counsel. Even statements made in good faith can be misinterpreted and used against you.
Arson cases may also expose defendants to additional felony charges if injuries or fatalities occurred, as well as civil liability for property damage or wrongful death.
What penalties apply to arson in North Carolina?
First-degree arson is a Class D felony and requires active prison time. Second-degree arson is a Class G felony. Sentencing depends on prior record level and aggravating factors.
How can an arson defense attorney help?
An experienced attorney protects your rights, challenges forensic evidence, negotiates with prosecutors, and pursues dismissal, reduction, or mitigation when possible.
How soon should I hire a lawyer?
Immediately. Early representation can influence charging decisions, bond conditions, and investigative direction.
Arson is one of the most aggressively prosecuted property crimes in North Carolina. If you are facing allegations in Concord, Cabarrus County, or Charlotte, do not wait.
Chris Criner provides focused criminal defense representation designed to protect your rights, your record, and your future.
📞 Contact the office today to schedule a confidential consultation.