In Virginia, arson is a Class 4 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-77, carrying 2–10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented results firm-wide. An Arson Lawyer Virginia from our team can build your defense. Consultation by appointment.
Virginia Arson Laws and Penalties
Virginia law defines arson under Va. Code § 18.2-77 as the intentional burning of a dwelling, building, or structure. The statute covers both occupied and unoccupied buildings. A conviction for arson of a dwelling is a Class 4 felony, while burning an unoccupied structure is a Class 5 felony under § 18.2-79. An Arson Lawyer Virginia understands these distinctions and how they affect your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia General Assembly | Va. Code § 18.2-77
Official Resources for Arson Charges in Virginia
- Va. Code § 18.2-77 (Arson of dwelling house) — official Virginia General Assembly
- Virginia Judicial System — official court website
Insider Procedural Edge: What Your Arson Lawyer Virginia Knows
In Virginia arson cases, prosecutors must prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt. The Commonwealth often relies on circumstantial evidence like accelerant patterns or financial motive. An Arson Lawyer Virginia can challenge the sufficiency of this evidence.
- Step 1: Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Step 2: Preserve all evidence, including alibi witnesses and financial records.
- Step 3: Request a preliminary hearing to test the Commonwealth’s evidence.
- Step 4: File motions to suppress any illegally obtained evidence.
- Step 5: Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge or diversion program.
- Step 6: Prepare for trial if a fair resolution is not offered.
In Virginia, arson carries 2–10 years for a dwelling fire and up to 10 years for an occupied structure.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arson of dwelling (§ 18.2-77) | Class 4 felony | 2–10 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent criminal record, loss of gun rights |
| Arson of unoccupied structure (§ 18.2-79) | Class 5 felony | 1–10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500) | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Arson Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep legislative knowledge. An Arson Lawyer Virginia from our team provides strong defense case-specific to your situation.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, founder and former prosecutor, who leads on complex criminal defense matters.
Case Results in Arson and Fire-Related Charges
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented results with 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our arson charge defense lawyer Virginia team has experience with fire-related criminal charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Virginia Location Serving Arson Clients
Our Fairfax location is near the Fairfax County Courthouse, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Centreville, Chantilly, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Manassas, Woodbridge, Leesburg, Ashburn, Warrenton, Stafford, and Fredericksburg.
Arson lawyer near Fairfax — 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arson Charges in Virginia
Do I need an Arson Lawyer Virginia for a first-time offense?
Yes. Even a first-time arson charge is a Class 4 felony carrying 2–10 years in prison. A conviction creates a permanent record and affects gun rights, employment, and housing.
Can arson charges be reduced in Virginia?
It depends. If the structure was unoccupied or the fire was accidental, your attorney may negotiate a reduction to a Class 5 felony or a lesser charge like destruction of property.
What is the difference between arson and reckless burning in Virginia?
Arson requires intentional burning of a structure. Reckless burning under Va. Code § 18.2-81 involves negligent fire-setting without intent. Reckless burning is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
How long does an arson case take in Virginia courts?
Felony arson cases typically take 3–9 months from arrest to trial in Circuit Court. Preliminary hearings in General District Court occur within 21–60 days of arrest.
Will I lose my right to own a firearm with an arson conviction?
Yes. A felony arson conviction in Virginia results in a permanent loss of firearm rights under both state and federal law. Restoration is possible but requires a governor’s pardon.
Related Legal Resources
- Virginia Criminal Lawyer — Hub Page
- Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Fairfax City Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Reckless Driving Lawyer in Accomack
- Criminal Contempt Lawyer in Accomack
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.