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California Penal Code Section 452 There's No Alternative

California Penal Code Section 452

Have you been arrested or accused of violating California Penal Code 452? Violations of this particular penal code can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony criminal offense. Whether you will face a misdemeanor or a felony will likely depend on the specific circumstances of your alleged crimes as well as your previous criminal history.

At the Law Offices of Randy Collins, our top notch arson defense attorneys have assisted several alleged offenders accused of starting fires. They offer free legal evaluations and consultations to help you better understand your charges. Call or fill out our contact form today to get help now.

PC 452 Defined

According to governing California laws, reckless arson is defined as carelessly setting fire to someone else’s property.

Unlike PC 451, which covers arson offenses committed with malicious intent, CPC 452 governs those who set a fire without intending too. If you knew that your actions would result in a serious risk, but you ignored the risk and a fire was started that caused injury, property damage, or damage to forest land, prosecutors may have enough evidence to convict you. If your offense caused great bodily injury, you can expect prosecutors to charge you with a felony count.

Penalties

Reckless offenses can be filed as a felony or a misdemeanor. Authorities refer to crimes like this as “wobblers” which can result in minor penalties or very harsh penalties depending upon the specific circumstances of each individual’s case. For example, if a person lit a fire which became the cause of serious injuries or death, the defendant will most likely be charged with a felony. If prosecutors allege that your particular offense resulted in minor property damage, it will most likely result in a misdemeanor charge.

The following are penalties that can be imposed upon those found guilty for this particular offense:

Misdemeanor Charges:

  • A maximum of one year in jail
  • A $1,000 maximum fine
  • Informal probation

Felony Charges

  • Up to nine years in the California State Prison
  • Ten thousand dollars with a possible additional fifty thousand dollar fine.

The penalties for reckless arson depend on a number of factors, which the judge will weigh for sentencing. These factors include if any victims suffered injuries and how severe those injuries were; the type of property that was damaged; or whether the defendant had any prior history of arson.

Legal Defense

If you are facing Reckless Arson charges in California, speaking with our Orange County arson attorney may be in your best interest. You will receive a free consultation from an experienced professional for up to one hour with no obligation to retain our services. Call 844-285-9559 to get help with your PC 452 violation today.

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    "They are such a great team to work with."
    I was new in the US and I didn’t know anything or what to do from Day 1 from presenting my case to Randy. He reassured me that he would help me and that I shouldn’t worry. He was very supportive, responsive to every question no matter how silly it was he was very patient and comforting. He knew exactly how to address the problem and had a plan of action and after a long 2 years, he won my case I appreciate every effort Randy & Chris have done. They are such a great team to work with and I would recommend him in a heartbeat
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    Randy is one of the best attorneys you could ever have. I’m eternally grateful to Randy and his team for his dedication and professionalism. Randy is very brilliant when it comes to felonies, probation violations, or other criminal cases... Randy is the best lawyer you can have. when other lawyers told me they couldn’t help me out... Randy always told me he can help me and there was never an impossible case to bring in his favor. He was always in touch and keeping me updated on my case, and he gave me the peace and comfort I needed during difficult times. This is the second time he has had to help me stay away from jail. I will never look into other lawyers. I’ll be a loyal client to Randy from now on. You are #1, Randy. Thank you
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    Randy worked tirelessly for over two years to have my case dismissed and I can’t thank him enough for everything that he did for me.
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    I called the office and right off the bat, I was super impressed at how much help I was receiving without even meeting in person. Chris (the guy who answered my call) is extremely nice and he explains everything so well. He told me how he used to work at the courts for many years (that gave me relief that he knew what he was talking about). Randy (the attorney) is delightful as well and put my worries to rest with his expertise and knowledge. You can tell by his demeanor and how passionate he speaks, that he is genuine and he cares about his clients. This office handles everything from DUI cases to just about anything criminal related.
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    I hired Randy after my previous attorney failed to give me proper information and caused me to violate my probation. Randy appeared in court for got the issue resolved without any head aches. He was a man of his word and I highly recommend him.
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