Chicago Arson Defense Attorney
Fighting Arson, Residential Arson, and Place of Worship Arson Charges Across Cook County
If you’ve been accused of arson in Chicago, you’re facing a serious felony offense under Illinois law—one that carries steep prison time and long-term consequences for your future. Whether it’s arson, residential arson, or place of worship arson, a conviction can result in significant prison time and a permanent criminal record.
At the Law Offices of Phil Haddad, we understand the complexity of arson investigations and how quickly suspicion can lead to charges. As a seasoned Chicago criminal defense attorney, Phil Haddad has successfully defended clients throughout Cook County and surrounding areas against serious felony allegations.
Understanding Arson Under Illinois Law (720 ILCS 5/20-1)
Under Illinois Compiled Statutes 720 ILCS 5/20-1, arson is defined and punished depending on the type of property damaged, the intent of the offender, and the location of the offense.
General Arson – § 20-1(a)
You can be charged with arson in Illinois if you:
- Knowingly use fire or explosives to damage another person’s real or personal property valued at $150 or more, without their consent, OR
- Intentionally damage property with the intent to defraud an insurance company.
Key Notes:
- Property doesn’t have to be owned entirely by someone else. If any person other than the defendant has an interest in the property, it qualifies as “property of another.”
- Even if the defendant partially owns the property, damaging it without proper authority can still result in charges.
Residential Arson – § 20-1(b)
Residential arson is a more serious offense. A person commits residential arson if, during the act of arson, they knowingly damage (in whole or in part) a dwelling or home that belongs to another person.
This includes:
- Houses
- Apartments
- Condos
- Any building used as someone’s home
Even if no one is inside the home at the time, it still qualifies as residential arson if it’s used as a dwelling place.
Place of Worship Arson – § 20-1(b-5)
If the arson targets a church, mosque, synagogue, temple, or any place of worship, the offense escalates under this section.
Knowingly damaging any part of a religious facility during the course of committing arson—even if unintentional—is charged as place of worship arson, a Class 1 felony.
Penalties for Arson in Illinois
- Arson is a Class 2 felony, punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison, and fines up to $25,000.
- Residential Arson and Place of Worship Arson are both Class 1 felonies, carrying 4 to 15 years in prison.
- In certain cases, sentences can be extended depending on criminal history or the amount of damage caused.
- Additional charges like insurance fraud, reckless conduct, or attempted murder may be added depending on circumstances.
Common Defenses Against Arson Charges
As a Chicago arson defense attorney, Phil Haddad examines every detail of the prosecution’s case. Some potential defenses include:
- Lack of Intent – You didn’t act knowingly or with criminal purpose.
- Accidental Fire – The fire was unintentional or due to negligence, not a criminal act.
- Mistaken Identity – You were falsely accused or wrongfully identified.
- Insufficient Evidence – The state’s evidence is based on circumstantial or speculative findings.
- No Ownership Conflict – You had a legal right to damage or alter the property.
Arrested or Under Investigation for Arson in Chicago? Call Today.
Arson investigations often involve fire marshals, police detectives, and insurance companies. Don’t wait until charges are filed—get legal representation immediately.
Phil Haddad is a Chicago criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience defending arson cases in Cook County courts. Whether you’re accused of intentionally setting a fire, facing insurance fraud allegations, or being charged with targeting a residence or place of worship, you need a strong, strategic defense. Contact us today at 708-833-3505 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced arson defense attorney.