Arson Charges
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Arson is a serious felony offense in Ohio, carrying severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and significant fines. Whether you are accused of intentionally setting a fire or causing property damage through reckless actions, prosecutors will aggressively pursue a conviction. Arson charges can also be elevated if the fire resulted in injury or death. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we know that arson cases often rely on circumstantial evidence, questionable fire investigation methods, and unreliable witness statements. We thoroughly analyze forensic reports, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and explore all possible defenses to fight for your freedom.
Understanding Arson Charges in Ohio
Arson is a serious felony offense in Ohio, carrying severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and permanent criminal records. Prosecutors aggressively pursue arson cases, especially when the fire results in injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. A conviction can also lead to civil liability, requiring the defendant to pay damages to property owners or insurance companies.
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What Constitutes Arson in Ohio?
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2909.03, arson occurs when a person knowingly causes or creates a fire or explosion that results in property damage. The specific charge depends on the circumstances, such as intent, property type, and whether anyone was endangered.
Examples of Conduct That May Lead to Arson Charges
- Knowingly setting fire to another person’s property without consent.
- Intentionally damaging a building or vehicle by fire or explosion.
- Burning property for fraudulent insurance claims.
- Starting a fire that endangers lives, even if there was no intent to harm.
Types of Arson Charges in Ohio
Ohio law classifies arson offenses into different categories:
- Arson (Felony of the 4th Degree – F4)
- Knowingly setting fire to another person’s property without their consent.
- Aggravated Arson (Felony of the 1st or 2nd Degree – F1 or F2)
- Setting fire to an occupied structure.
- Causing physical harm to another person as a result of the fire.
- Insurance Fraud Arson (Felony of the 4th Degree – F4)
- Intentionally setting fire to property with the purpose of collecting insurance compensation.
Because arson charges vary in severity, penalties can range from several months in prison to lengthy sentences for aggravated cases. Having an experienced defense lawyer is critical to challenge the evidence, intent, and circumstances surrounding the fire.
Resisting Arrest
Resisting arrest is a serious criminal charge in Ohio, and prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., our Cleveland criminal defense lawyers provide skilled legal representation for individuals accused of resisting arrest. We carefully examine every detail of your case, including police conduct, use of force, and the legality of the arrest. Our goal is to reduce or dismiss your charges and protect your rights, freedom, and future. Contact us today for a free, confidential case evaluation with an experienced Ohio defense lawyer.
Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct is a broad criminal charge in Ohio that prosecutors take seriously. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., our Cleveland criminal defense lawyers provide skilled and strategic representation for individuals accused of disorderly conduct. We carefully review every detail of your case, challenging vague accusations, exaggerated claims, and potential rights violations. Our goal is to reduce or dismiss your charges while protecting your reputation, freedom, and future. Contact us today for a free, confidential case evaluation with an experienced Ohio defense attorney.
Juvenile Crimes
Juvenile crime charges can have lasting consequences for your child’s future, from college admissions to employment opportunities. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., our Cleveland juvenile defense lawyers provide skilled and strategic representation for minors accused of theft, assault, drug possession, and other offenses. We fight to protect your child’s rights, challenge unlawful charges, and pursue alternatives like diversion programs or reduced sentencing. Our goal is to safeguard your child’s future and prioritize rehabilitation over punishment. Contact us today for a free, confidential case evaluation with an experienced Ohio juvenile defense lawyer.
Child Abuse & Endangerment
Being accused of child abuse or child endangerment is one of the most serious criminal charges you can face in Ohio. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., our Cleveland child abuse defense lawyers provide skilled and aggressive representation to protect your rights, freedom, and parental status. We challenge biased social services reports, expose inconsistencies in witness statements, and fight false or exaggerated accusations. Our goal is to reduce or dismiss your charges and safeguard your reputation and relationship with your child. Contact us today for a free, confidential case evaluation with an experienced Ohio child abuse defense attorney.
Probation Violations
Violating the terms of probation in Ohio can lead to serious consequences, including extended probation, heavy fines, or incarceration. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., our Cleveland probation violation defense lawyers provide skilled and aggressive representation to protect your rights and freedom. Whether your violation involves a missed appointment, failed drug test, or misunderstanding, we present evidence of compliance, negotiate with probation officers, and fight for alternatives to jail time whenever possible. Contact us today for a free, confidential case evaluation with an experienced Ohio probation defense attorney.
Penalties for Arson in Ohio
The penalties for arson vary depending on the severity of the crime, whether lives were endangered, and the extent of property damage:
- Arson (Felony of the 4th Degree – F4)
- 6 to 18 months in prison
- Fines up to $5,000
- Possible restitution to the property owner
- Aggravated Arson (Felony of the 2nd Degree – F2)
- Applies when fire damages an unoccupied building
- 2 to 8 years in prison
- Fines up to $15,000
- Aggravated Arson (Felony of the 1st Degree – F1)
- Applies when fire damages an occupied structure or causes physical harm to a person
- 3 to 11 years in prison
- Fines up to $20,000
- Mandatory restitution
- Insurance Fraud Arson (Felony of the 4th Degree – F4)
- Setting fire to property with the intent of making a fraudulent insurance claim
- 6 to 18 months in prison
- Fines up to $5,000
- Reimbursement to insurance companies
Penalties for Resisting Arrest in Ohio
The penalties depend on whether force was used and whether an officer was injured:
- Resisting Arrest (Misdemeanor 2nd Degree – M2)
- Applies when a person resists without force (e.g., pulling away, fleeing).
- Penalty: Up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $750.
- Resisting with Force (Misdemeanor 1st Degree – M1)
- Applies when someone physically resists an officer but does not cause injury.
- Penalty: Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000.
- Resisting Arrest with Injury to an Officer (Felony 4th Degree – F4)
- Applies if the resistance causes physical harm to a law enforcement officer.
- Penalty: 6 to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000.
- Resisting Arrest with Serious Injury (Felony 3rd Degree – F3)
- Applies if the officer suffers serious bodily harm as a result of resistance.
- Penalty: 1 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Ohio
The penalties for disorderly conduct depend on the circumstances of the offense and whether aggravating factors are present:
- Minor Misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct (no prior offenses, non-violent)
- Fine up to $150
- No jail time but possible community service or probation
- Misdemeanor 4th Degree (M4) – Aggravated Disorderly Conduct
- Up to 30 days in jail
- Fines up to $250
- Potential probation or anger management classes
- Misdemeanor 1st Degree (M1) – Repeat Offenses, Public Disturbances, or Harm Caused
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Longer probation periods and potential restrictions on alcohol consumption
Penalties for Juvenile Crimes in Ohio
The consequences for juvenile crimes depend on the severity of the offense and the minor’s prior record. Common penalties include:
- Juvenile Probation – Court-ordered supervision requiring compliance with curfews, school attendance, counseling, or community service.
- Juvenile Detention – Confinement in a juvenile detention center for serious or repeat offenses.
- Diversion Programs – Alternative programs for first-time offenders; successful completion (such as community service or counseling) may result in charges being dismissed.
- Fines and Restitution – Financial penalties, including repayment for stolen property or damages.
- Court-Ordered Counseling or Treatment – Therapy, anger management, or drug and alcohol rehabilitation for offenses involving substance abuse or behavioral issues.
- Driver’s License Suspension – Loss of driving privileges for offenses such as OVI, reckless driving, or drug-related charges.
- Transfer to Adult Court – In cases of violent felonies (e.g., homicide, robbery, sexual assault), juveniles may be tried as adults and face harsher sentences with permanent criminal records.
Penalties for Child Abuse & Endangerment in Ohio
The penalties for child abuse and endangerment depend on the circumstances of the offense and whether the child suffered harm:
- Child Endangerment (Misdemeanor of the 1st Degree – M1)
- Applies when a child is put at risk but does not suffer physical harm
- Penalty: Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,000
- Child Endangerment (Felony of the 4th Degree – F4)
- Applies when a child suffers physical harm or is placed in a high-risk situation
- Penalty: 6 to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000
- Aggravated Child Endangerment (Felony of the 3rd or 2nd Degree – F3/F2)
- Applies when a child suffers serious physical or psychological harm
- Penalty: 1 to 8 years in prison (F3) or 2 to 8 years in prison (F2), with fines up to $15,000
- Child Endangerment Involving Sexual Conduct (Felony of the 1st Degree – F1)
- Applies when the offense involves sexual abuse or exploitation
- Penalty: 3 to 11 years in prison, fines up to $20,000, and mandatory sex offender registration
Penalties for Probation Violations in Ohio
If a probation officer suspects a violation, they may issue a warning or request a probation revocation hearing. If the court determines that a violation occurred, possible penalties may include:
- Increased supervision and reporting requirements
- Extension of probation (sometimes by months or years)
- Mandatory jail time (short-term confinement in county jail)
- House arrest or electronic monitoring
- Loss of probation privileges, such as travel restrictions
- Revocation of probation, resulting in immediate incarceration for the remainder of the original sentence
If the violation involves committing a new crime, the defendant may also face additional criminal charges and harsher sentencing.

Why Choose Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A.?
At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we prioritize your rights and freedom. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with personalized defense strategies that yield results.
Your Defense Starts Here
When facing criminal charges, having a dedicated and experienced defense team by your side is crucial. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we understand the stakes involved and are committed to building the strongest defense possible for you. Our team will work tirelessly to analyze every detail of your case and ensure your rights are protected.
We recognize that each case is unique, and we tailor our strategies to fit your specific situation. Our attorneys are skilled in navigating the complexities of criminal law, and we will guide you through every step of the legal process. With our support, you can feel confident in your defense and the choices you make.
Don’t leave your future to chance. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can begin crafting a robust defense strategy. We are here to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the legal expertise you need to fight back against the charges.
Your freedom and reputation are on the line, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our commitment to you goes beyond just legal representation; we aim to be your trusted ally during this challenging time. Together, we will work towards the best possible outcome.
Take action now and let us help you reclaim control of your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building your strongest defense.
Get Your Free Consultation Today
Facing legal challenges? Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.