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Arson

Due to the potential dangers of fires and explosions, when an individual is accused of arson, he or she is often facing a felony offense. Felonies in Florida have the potential to land individuals behind bars for a significant amount of time.

However, being charged with arson does not necessarily mean that you will be convicted of the crime. A Pinellas County property crimes attorney can fight to have the charges against your reduced or dismissed.

Defense Attorney for Arson in St. Petersburg

If you have been charged with arson in St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay, Clearwater, Pinellas County, or the surrounding areas in Florida, Melinda Morris, an experienced arson attorney can provide you with skilled legal representation.

Melinda Morris is a former prosecutor who has unique insight on how the prosecution will attempt to prove your guilt. She will work around the clock to ensure that your defense is adequately prepared. 

Contact the Morris Law Firm at (727) 592-5885 for a consultation on your allegations of arson.

Information Center for Arson in Florida

  • Elements of Arson
  • What are the Penalties for Arson in Pinellas County?
  • Working with a Qualified Arson Attorney in Pinellas County

Elements of Arson

Under Section 806.01 of the Florida Statutes, if an individual uses fire or explosion to intentionally damage a building or structure. A structure is any building, enclosed area with a roof, tent, portable building, vehicle, aircraft, boat, vessel, or other real property.

If a firefighter, police officer, emergency medical technician, or other individual suffered significant injury as a result of arson, the alleged offender could face additional charges or penalties.

What are the Penalties for Arson in Pinellas County?

In Pinellas County, this offense is usually considered a second degree felony. However, in some circumstances, this offense can automatically be classified as a first degree felony. These instances include:

  • The alleged offender committed arson on a dwelling or home
  • The alleged offender committed arson on a building or structure where people are normally present (jail, prison, hospital, nursing home, office building, business, church, school)
  • The alleged offender committed arson on a structure the he or she knew or had reason to believe was occupied

A second degree felony carries up to a 15 year prison sentence, and/or a fine of up to $10,000. If the individual is convicted of a first degree felony, he or she can face up to 30 years to life in prison, and/or a fine of up to $15,000.

Working with a Qualified Arson Attorney in Pinellas County

Melinda Morris of Morris Law Firm, P.A. is committed to representing persons who have been accused of arson. If you are facing charges for arson in Pinellas County, St. Petersburg, or the surrounding areas, contact Morris Law Firm, P.A. immediately.

Melinda Morris will aggressively fight to prove your innocence, and will do everything in her power to help you avoid the devastating penalties associated with your alleged offense. 

Contact her today at (727) 592-5885 to get an experienced and diligent defense attorney on your side.

Meet The Attorneys Melinda Morris & Seth Shapiro
Attorney Profiles

Why Choose Our Law Firm?

See the Difference Our Service Provides
  • FORMER STATE PROSECUTOR
    Melinda Morris is a former prosecutor and has handled thousands of criminal cases from investigation through sentencing enabling us to identify weaknesses in the State’s case against you.
  • STRATEGICALLY AGGRESSIVE
    We never settle for the easiest outcome or the typical result. We know how to negotiate with the State Attorney and we will work to get you the best possible outcome.
  • TRUSTED & EXPERIENCED
    Melinda Morris has practiced criminal law for over 20 years. Our clients trust advice that comes from experience in nearly every type of criminal case.
  • PERSONAL ATTENTION
    We will know every client’s story because we will take the time to listen and understand. You will work with your attorney one-on-one at every stage of the process.
  • PROMPT COMMUNICATION
    You will have the cell phone number of your attorney. Your attorney will directly return your call, email, or text to answer your pressing questions.
  • SAME DAY REPRESENTATION
    The government is wasting no time in trying to prove your guilt, a proactive defense is imperative. Prompt and decisive action from your defense attorney is of critical importance.

CLient Testimonials

Hear From Real People We've Helped

At Morris Law Firm, P.A., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Look no further than Morris Law"
    Seth Shapiro is the most professional, courteous, caring attorneys I’ve dealt with in all of my 70 years. He did a fabulous job representing me defending me and getting charges dropped. I couldn’t have dreamed of better counsel.
    - Stephen on AVVO
    "100% satisfied with Morris Law Group."
    100% satisfied with Morris law group. Melinda was able to resolve my legal issues with no additional expenses other than my original retainer. I highly recommend this firm for professional and competent representation.
    - Peter R. on Yelp
    "Best legal representation"
    If you want the best legal representation, look no further than Morris law firm. Melinda reassured me from the very first time we spoke over the phone. She is very professional and keeps you updated on the progress of your case. I really liked that I didn’t have to reach out to her Everything was smooth, straightforward and she put my mind at ease. You’ll be in good hands with her. Thank you Melinda
    - Hassan on Google
    "Thanks to The Morris Law Firm"
    Mr.Shapiro helped my case by looking at the police body cam diligently which supported my testimony . He presented evidence to the prosecutor .I hired Seth Shapiro to defend me after a domestic battery charge in which I was wrongfully accused and arrested. My case was dismissed thankfully. .Couldn't have asked for a better outcome. This was an extreme difficult time for me. Seth Shapiro was knowledgeable and compassionate in my case. He followed up with my concerns. I would highly recommend this firm.
    - Melody Z.
    "Goes above and beyond"
    Melinda has represented me on numerous cases and the outcome has always been great. Melinda goes above and beyond to defend your rights and get you the best possible outcome. I highly recommend hiring her.
    - Shasta on Google
    "They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful."
    Morris Law Firm is a very professional and responsive. They closed my case in a very short terms, for what I'm very grateful. Strongly recommend them especially Seth Shapiro. He decreased my case from felony to misdemeanor in short terms and during 6 months my case was totally closed.
    - Elina P. on Google