Arson is one of the most aggressively prosecuted property crimes in Florida. It is not only considered a serious felony—it is also viewed as a crime that endangers lives, public safety, and entire communities. Whether the accused fire was large or small, intentional or accidental, being charged with arson can place you at risk of long-term imprisonment, devastating financial penalties, and irreparable damage to your reputation.

At Bozanic Law, we know that every story has more than one side. Fires happen for many reasons—faulty wiring, spontaneous combustion, accidents, and in some cases, false accusations. Our job is to uncover what really happened and protect your legal rights at every step.

We don’t just defend clients. We defend futures.

What Is Arson Under Florida Law?

According to Florida Statute §806.01, arson occurs when someone willfully and unlawfully damages a structure by fire or explosion. The severity of the charge depends on several factors, including the type of structure involved, whether anyone was inside, and whether injuries occurred.

There are two degrees of arson:

• First-Degree Arson: Willfully damaging a dwelling (home), occupied building, or structure where people are normally present—such as schools, churches, or hospitals. This is a felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.
• Second-Degree Arson: Willfully setting fire to an unoccupied structure, abandoned building, or other property not covered under first-degree arson. This is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.

In either case, the state must prove that the fire was started intentionally and that the accused acted with malicious intent. This is where many cases fall apart—because proving intent in arson cases is often difficult and highly dependent on interpretation.

Common Situations That Lead to Arson Charges

Arson charges may arise from situations that are far less sinister than people think. In fact, many defendants are caught up in fire-related incidents without ever intending to commit a crime.

Typical situations include:

• A fire accidentally started during renovations or repairs
• A tenant being blamed for a fire in an apartment or rental home
• A property owner accused of starting a fire for insurance purposes
• Electrical or chemical fires wrongly attributed to criminal intent
• Teenagers or young adults engaging in reckless behavior
• False or exaggerated allegations made during property disputes

We understand that arson charges can stem from technical findings by investigators—but science alone doesn’t always tell the full story. That’s why we bring in independent fire experts when necessary to challenge the state’s conclusions.

What Should You Do If You’re Accused of Arson?

Being accused of arson is not just serious—it can be overwhelming. Police, fire investigators, insurance companies, and prosecutors may begin questioning you immediately. Here’s what to do:

• Do not answer questions from investigators or insurance agents without a lawyer present
• Do not consent to searches without a warrant
• Preserve evidence of any repairs, inspections, or previous safety concerns at the property
• Document your timeline and interactions before and after the fire
• Contact Bozanic Law immediately for legal guidance

Even if you think cooperating will “clear things up,” it’s important to remember that arson cases are often built on statements made early in the process. Protect yourself from day one.

How Bozanic Law Defends Arson Cases

Defending an arson charge requires a deep understanding of fire science, criminal law, and prosecutorial tactics. At Bozanic Law, we carefully examine the fire’s origin, the investigative methods used, and any assumptions made by first responders or insurance companies.

Our defense may include:

• Challenging the determination of the fire’s cause or origin
• Introducing expert testimony from certified fire investigators
• Arguing that the fire was accidental, not intentional
• Exposing alternative causes, such as faulty wiring or spontaneous combustion
• Disproving claims of motive, such as false insurance fraud accusations
• Identifying improper investigative procedures or violation of your constitutional rights

We also fight to keep illegally obtained evidence out of court and push for reduced charges when the facts support it.

Should You Settle or Take the Case to Trial?

Many arson cases come down to expert interpretation and circumstantial evidence. That means there is often significant room for negotiation—or for challenging the prosecution’s claims in court.

At Bozanic Law, we help our clients make informed decisions. If trial is the best option, we’ll prepare a powerful courtroom defense. If settlement or diversion is possible, we’ll negotiate aggressively to reduce or eliminate long-term penalties.

Why Choose Bozanic Law to Defend Your Arson Case

Arson charges carry not only the risk of prison—but the weight of public judgment and financial ruin. Attorney Zeljka brings years of experience and an unrelenting commitment to justice in high-stakes cases like this. She leads our legal team with strategy, compassion, and the determination to protect what matters most: your future.

📞 Call Bozanic Law today at 954-800-2864 for a free, confidential consultation. When the heat is on, we stand with you.