new york penal law 150 20 arson in the first degree
Intentionally setting fire to buildings or vehicles can have devastating consequences. In New York, arson involving explosions or intentional damage is charged as a serious felony under Penal Law 150.20.
First degree arson carries some of the harshest penalties under New York law. A conviction can result in decades behind bars. So these charges should never be taken lightly.
If you’ve been accused of arson in the first degree, continue reading to better understand the law, possible defenses, and why you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side.
The Law – NY Penal Code 150.20
New York Penal Law 150.20 states that a person is guilty of arson in the first degree when they[1][2][3]:
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(212) 300-5196- Intentionally damage a building or vehicle by causing an explosion or fire
- And the explosion or fire either:
- Causes serious physical injury to another person
- Occurs in an occupied building with reckless disregard for human life
Arson laws are intended to deter and punish the dangerous destruction of property. First degree arson involves severe harm or risk of harm to people.
Penalties if Convicted of Arson in NY
Arson in the first degree is a Class A felony in New York. Potential penalties include[4][5]:
- 15 to 25 years in state prison, up to life imprisonment
- Fines up to $50,000
- Post-release supervision for 5 years or more
- Restitution to victims for property damage and injuries
Judges determine sentences after conviction based on factors like criminal history. But these are very severe potential penalties.
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Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience. His aggressive approach has secured dismissals and acquittals in cases others deemed unwinnable.
Building an Effective Legal Defense
Were you falsely accused or there were mitigating circumstances? An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help fight the charges by[6]:
After a heated dispute with your landlord over unsafe living conditions, a fire breaks out in your apartment building and investigators determine it was intentionally set. Detectives show up at your door saying witnesses saw you near the building's basement shortly before the fire, and you're now facing arson in the first degree charges under New York Penal Law 150.20.
What exactly does a first degree arson charge mean for me, and what kind of prison time am I looking at?
Arson in the first degree under Penal Law 150.20 is a Class A-I felony, which is one of the most serious charges in New York's criminal code. A conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 to 25 years in state prison, with a maximum of life imprisonment. The prosecution must prove that you intentionally started the fire and that another person was present in the building at the time, or that an explosive or incendiary device was used. Given the severity of these penalties, it is critical that you have an experienced defense attorney who can challenge the arson investigation findings, question witness credibility, and explore whether the evidence actually supports the specific elements required under 150.20.
This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.
- Challenging the prosecution’s evidence
- Disputing intent to cause damage or harm
- Filing motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Negotiating for lesser charges like reckless endangerment
The right defense strategy depends on the specific details of your case.
