Chicago Aggravated Arson Defense Attorney
Fierce Legal Defense Against Class X Felony Arson Charges in Cook County
Being charged with aggravated arson in Chicago is among the most serious arson-related offenses under Illinois law. This is not just a property crime—it involves actual or potential harm to people. The penalties are severe, the stakes are high, and your freedom is on the line.
If you’re facing aggravated arson charges under 720 ILCS 5/20-1.1, you need an experienced and aggressive Chicago criminal defense attorney on your side. At the Law Offices of Phil Haddad, we provide relentless representation to fight back against felony arson charges and protect your future.
What Is Aggravated Arson in Illinois?
(720 ILCS 5/20-1.1)
Aggravated arson is a heightened form of arson under Illinois law. It applies when a person knowingly sets fire to or explodes property and, in doing so, endangers human life or causes serious harm.
You may be charged with aggravated arson if, during the course of committing arson, you:
- Know or reasonably should know that one or more people are inside the building or structure at the time;
- Cause great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement to any individual as a result of the fire or explosion;
- Cause injury to a firefighter, police officer, or correctional officer who is responding to the scene in the line of duty.
Property Types Included:
- Houses or apartments
- School buildings (public or private)
- House trailers or mobile homes
- Boats and watercraft
- Motor vehicles
- Railroad cars
- Any structure partially or totally damaged during the incident, including adjacent buildings
Illinois law defines “property of another” broadly—even if you have a partial ownership interest, damaging the property without consent can still result in criminal liability.
What Makes Aggravated Arson Different from Arson?
| Element | Arson (720 ILCS 5/20-1) | Aggravated Arson (720 ILCS 5/20-1.1) |
|---|---|---|
| Level of Harm | Focuses on property damage | Involves potential or actual injury to people |
| Building Type | Any property valued at $150+ | Any building/structure, vehicle, or school |
| People Involved | No requirement of anyone being present | Charge applies if anyone is present or gets hurt |
| Victim Status | General public | Includes injury to emergency responders |
| Penalty | Class 2 or Class 1 felony | Class X felony – the most serious non-murder charge |
Penalties for Aggravated Arson in Illinois
Aggravated arson is classified as a Class X felony, the most severe felony category in Illinois (short of first-degree murder).
Potential penalties include:
- 6 to 30 years in Illinois state prison
- No probation eligibility (mandatory prison sentence)
- Fines up to $25,000
- Restitution for property damage and victim injuries
- A permanent felony record that can never be expunged or sealed
In certain circumstances—especially if someone was seriously hurt—extended-term sentencing may apply, raising the possible prison time up to 60 years.
Strategic Defense Against Aggravated Arson Charges
Phil Haddad is a battle-tested Chicago aggravated arson defense lawyer who understands the tactics used by prosecutors and fire investigators. We scrutinize every piece of evidence—witness statements, insurance records, expert fire origin reports, surveillance footage, and more.
Common defenses may include:
- Lack of knowledge that someone was inside
- No intent to harm or defraud
- Accidental fire, not criminally caused
- Misidentification or false accusation
- Unlawful search or seizure of evidence
- Flawed forensic analysis or unreliable fire origin testimony
Why Choose the Law Offices of Phil Haddad?
With years of courtroom experience and a reputation for aggressive legal defense, Attorney Phil Haddad fights relentlessly to challenge the prosecution’s case and seek reductions, dismissals, or alternative sentencing options.
Whether you’re facing charges in Cook County, DuPage, or anywhere in the Chicago area, our firm is here to fight for your freedom and future.
Arrested for Aggravated Arson in Chicago? Call Attorney Phil Haddad Today.
Your case demands immediate attention. Do not speak to police or insurance investigators without a lawyer present.
Call 708-833-3505 now for a free consultation with a skilled Chicago criminal defense attorney.