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Arson Defense Lawyer
Arson Defense Lawyer NYC
Arson crimes in New York involve the act of setting fire to a building or some other type of property without the consent of the owner. In order to determine the type of charges that will be filed in an arson case, it is necessary to consider the type of property that was burned, the value of the property, the type of fire/accelerants that were used, and whether there was any risk of harm to other people during the commission of the arson.
Due to the fact that the use of fire to destroy property always carries some element of risk of physical harm, New York State prosecutors take these cases very seriously and do not hesitate to aggressively go after the perceived wrongdoers. Therefore, it is extremely important for a person to get legal help as soon as he learns about the charges he is facing.
Under New York Penal Law section 150, the commission of the crime of arson is broken down into five categories of charges. The nature of this crime requires a willful and malicious intent, which provides one of the key points raised in many defenses – that the accused did not intentionally start the fire. In determining which degree of the crime was committed, the factors that are considered are:
- The defendant’s intent at the time the fire started;
- The type of materials that were used to start the fire;
- Whether the fire posed any significant risk of bodily harm or death; and
- Whether anyone was actually injured or killed as the result of the fire.
The prosecutor also will consider the type of building that was involved in an arson, charging the suspect with a more serious crime if it was an occupied residential home rather than an empty office building.
The five degrees of arson are:
- Arson in the fifth degree – This crime may be charged when a person intentionally starts a fire with the intent to damage property. This is a Class A misdemeanor and carries with it the potential for an alternative sentence with a maximum sentence of 12 months in jail;
- Arson in the fourth degree – This is a Class E felony. A person may be charged with this crime if he damages a motor vehicle or building recklessly by intentionally starting a fire. This crime may result in a sentence of between one to three years and 1.3 to four years;
- Arson in the third degree – This is a Class C felony. A person may be charged with this crime if he damages a motor vehicle or building intentionally by intentionally starting a fire (there has to be an intent to do damage and an intent to start the fire. This crime may result in a sentence of between one to three years and five to 15 years;
- Arson in the second degree – This is a Class B felony. A person may be charged with this crime if he intentionally started a fire and damages a motor vehicle or a building, there was a person in the property, and the accused knew or reasonably should have known that someone was in the property. This crime may result in a sentence of between five and 25 years in prison; and
- Arson in the first degree – This is a Class A-1 felony. This crime may be charged when:
- The person intentionally set a fire or caused an explosion to intentionally damage a motor vehicle or building; and
- The fire was caused by an incendiary or explosive device; or
- A person other than the accused was seriously injured as the result of the fire; or
- The person set the fire for financial gain; and
- There was a person present in the vehicle or building when the fire was set; and
- The person who set the fire knew or reasonably should have known that there was a person in the vehicle or building.
- The person intentionally set a fire or caused an explosion to intentionally damage a motor vehicle or building; and
NYC Arson Defense Attorney
Under New York law, arson crimes only can be charged if the person intended to set the fire, which is a very tough burden for the prosecutor. If you have been charged with an arson crime, it is important to get determined and knowledgeable legal help quickly.
At Greco Neyland, PC, our attorneys are ready to get to work on your defense immediately, whether there was a lack of intent or you were not involved in the charged crime at all. Call us at (212) 951-1300 to schedule a free initial consultation. We have offices in Manhattan to serve all five boroughs of New York City.
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Our Practice Areas
Our Offices
Midtown (Main Office)
Greco Neyland, PC
535 5th Ave #2500
New York NY 10017
(212) 951-1300
White Plains
75 S Broadway 4th floor
White Plains, NY 10601
(914) 898-8800
Meet Our Attorneys
Jeffery Greco
Experience as a former prosecutor gives Jeffery Greco and edge in building the strongest possible defense strategy for the accused in Ney York City
Dustan Neyland
A through investigation is key to finding every reasonable doubt and geting charges reduced or dismissed for NYC defense attorney Dustan Neyland.
testimonials
RATED 5/5 BASED ON 52 CUSTOMER REVIEWS
shamma Sandhu
22:24 10 Jul 20
Anna Hevron
03:55 27 Feb 20
Mehdi never doubted me, and was so personable to work with. He was consistently available to answer my questions, and felt more like a friend than a lawyer. He was extremely thorough, and was able to get my case dismissed. I highly recommend this firm.
Mayrelis Guerra
21:04 25 Feb 20
If Google let me put 100 stars as a review, I would put them all. I want to thank the best team of lawyers in New York Greco Neyland and especially Medhi Essmidi who helped us make my dad's case come to a satisfactory resolution after a long year of stress and worry, Medhi believed in the innocence of my Dad and always fight to the end, he is a 100% efficient lawyer and also a very good human being. Thank you very much for everything and God bless you. Greetings from Ariel and Family
Don Penaflor
00:18 19 Feb 20
They really help me a lot especially Attorney Mehdi Essmidi.... he answered all my questions, informed me all the details that i need to know, encouraged and understand me, and believes me. I had a lawyer before who gave up on me and wanted me to plead guilty on this case. I thank God, He, let me found this law firm and hired them. Now, my case got dismissed!!! ... i could not ask any result better than that. If anybody needs a lawyer, i suggest, do not hesitate to hire them, it is worth every penny.
Raymond Maldonado
17:24 18 Dec 19
I strongly recommend Greco Neyland, PC Firm. Since the first day Mehdi Essmidi was professional and answered all my questions, treated me not just like a client but more like a friend. It was a great experience getting able to win the case and having Mehdi as my lawyer.~ Raymond Maldonado
Felix Guerrero
14:57 15 Dec 19
Fazly A.
15:32 11 Dec 19
Appreciate the help and they did the best they could
Ellen B
16:58 07 Dec 19
From the first moment that Jeff answered my call very early on a Monday morning, I knew that I had found the best attorneys for my son. He helped calm my fears and Medhi called me just about every hour to give me updates on the progress of getting my son out of jail. Both Mehdi & Jeff answered calls and texts on weekends, at nights, during holidays. Mehdi worked tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for my son. He patiently answered any questions I had. I'm grateful beyond words that he basically saved my son's future.
Alexei Kalinin
21:30 13 Nov 19
From the first consult with Mehdi Essmidi I was put at ease about my situation. Mehdi was confident and professional. He was always easy to reach and explained every step of the process clearly. At the end of several months even the judge said what Mehdi did for me was remarkable, but Mehdi said he would’ve kept fighting it if it wasn’t for my time constraints with work. I place my whole confidence in Mehdi and Greco Neyland, PC and would recommend them every single time.
Babafemi Jacob Ogundana
23:14 17 Oct 19
Christopher Yuda
15:34 09 Oct 19
I hired Mehdi, and I would recommend his services to others. Patient and considerate, and very communicative. Great job.
Sargon Yako
20:38 23 Sep 19
Had the pleasure to have met Jeff and Mehdi. Both of these guys treated me like we have been friends for a long time. They kept all the bs off the table and made sure I was taken care of. The dream team of nyc and that is the truth.
Marcial
17:31 23 Sep 19
The attorneys at Greco Neyland NYC are reliable, straight forward, efficient, and incredibly effective. After meeting with me, Jeff believed that he could help me; thanks to him and Mehdi I was cleared of all charges and now I am happy to say that they were able to prove my innocence.
M T
01:34 19 Aug 19
Can't recommend this group highly enough. Jeff was fast, professional, and knowledgeable when responding to my inquiry while I was in an extremely difficult situation. I was working with Mehdi who couldn't have been more caring and clear. He consistently made sure I was understanding each part of the process and that I was comfortable with the actions we were taking. Mehdi went above and beyond for me and because of that I got the outcome I was hoping for. Mehdi even took the time to update my family so they could understand the process as well. I can't thank them enough for how much they helped me through one of the most stressful incidents in my life.
Williamss Hays
15:47 05 Jul 19
I am very excited that Mehdi and Jeffrey were able to get my entire case dismissed and sealed. They were very attentive to my immigration status, time constraints of my case and my professional needs. Mehdi and Jeffrey were able to pull off a perfect resolution to my case.
Dj
18:42 24 Jun 19
I was struggling to find an attorney that could match my needs and I stumbled on Mehdi through the web the week of my court appearance. He got 3 counts of misdemeanors down to just a day of community service and with a 6month period of good behavior to have it sealed away completely as this was my biggest fear of having a record for 1 bad drunk night out. Very down-to-earth guy easy to communicate , and overall a smooth attorney to work with helped made the process easy to understand. I'm still surprised at how he pretty much only had a day to prepare but nailed it in courtroom to have my case pretty much dismissed. A1 attorney ,effecient, and just overall pleasant experience . Highly recommend!!!! Best of luck Mehdi thanks again.
Flavio Brino
14:09 11 Jun 19
Thank you, Greco Neyland for the excellent and professional work you did and the final outcome of my case! The initial case review was very productive, I was heard and received all the information I needed and, through the development of the case, I received all the support! Fully recommended!
theodor cano
19:49 15 May 19
Thank you Greco Neyland, my experience with them was amazing! As a college student who may need student loans in the future and will be looking for jobs in the business sector I ended up getting into some trouble that could have effected me in the future. From start to begging Mehdi gave me reassurance and told me not to stress. I'm thankful that he was there to help me because they were able to get my case dismissed in just one court date.
Xris Pennington
14:16 18 Apr 19
One call from Jeff made everything go away.
Adolfo Winciaspet
01:00 08 Mar 19
A lawyer friend referred me to Jeff. He was real with me about expectations and jail time was a real possibility. I expected the worst but hoped for the best. It took no time for him to get me an amazing deal with the judge. Five stars isn't enough to reflect his true value as an attorney.
Ruby Tamar
05:44 06 Mar 19
I found myself in legal trouble during the summer of 2018 - a foreign, unenviable, and emotionally exhausting situation to say the least. Until I met and sat wit Brian that I felt a sense of relief. Consultation was extensively insightful and informative. I'm happy to say, a few months later, the best possible outcomes were attained, my life is on track towards normal again.
Christina Hamilton
07:28 19 Feb 19
Incredible attorney. He accepted my case and explained his strategy. His confidence calmed me down during this stressful situation. He is very well prepared and likes to have things ready ahead of time. When the court day came, he was able to get my charges dropped to a lesser charge. He made the best out of an bad situation. I would definitely recommend him.
Shannon Conner
08:08 14 Feb 19
I was referred to this firm by a friend who also happens to be their client. Jeff's long time experience, professional connections, and respect he has in the law enforcement community have led to the successful dismissal of my case. Hire him.
Edward Piers
02:35 09 Feb 19
They did an extraordinary job with my case that money couldn't buy. The results were the only thing that I cared about because me having anything on my record would caused me to lose my career. The time and consideration they give their clients is outstanding and I truly appreciate the effort that they put in. hey did everything for me and Handled it professionally.
Marie Vargas
15:55 05 Feb 19
It is not until one is faced with a legal matter that one realizes that our legal system is far from perfect, and that innocence does not necessarily exempt you from legal jeopardy. Once caught in a legal matter, there is an emotional and stressful toll to pay which derives from the uncertainty of the unknown. I am very pleased and grateful that I was able to retain Brian’s services to attend to a most unpleasant experience. Throughout the duration, Brian was supportive and understanding. He explained legal lingo in terms that I could understand and often forwarded links to source where I could further understand the matters at hand. Brian displayed a commanding knowledge of his field while exercising caution in offering advice out of his area of expertise. While it is apparent that Brian is adroit in the courtroom, I was able to ascertain that he is a warm and caring professional. As my case developed and eventually unfolded into a very successful resolution, I was very happy and grateful that I had Brian Valerio in my corner.
Joseph Copenty
01:32 04 Feb 19
Pleasurable business in less than pleasurable circumstances. He got the case completely dropped down for me.
Alex Priefichat
03:03 01 Feb 19
Greco Neyland's Office is absolutely superb. I owe so much to them for helping me get through a hard time. 100% give him a call if you get into trouble, you wont find better.
Jann Stelys
05:58 25 Jan 19
I was referred to Jeff and had a great experience. I got myself into a little trouble for drug possession and they've done everything possible to work hard on my case. Ultimately the case ended up being thrown out & I still have a clean record! Thank you again Jeff!
Donna Harmon
07:21 23 Jan 19
Really appreciate Mr. Jeffrey's legal knowledge to navigate through the system. He helped me clean up my record and I couldn't be happier.
jessica eli
23:51 26 Oct 18
Excellent job !!!! Excellent service !!! Jeff is professional and changed my life ! I almost got DWI , instead got me violation . Thank you Jeff and his team ! Sofya future nurse 👩⚕️ 🙏
Constantin Geanakoplos
19:02 03 Sep 18
I hired Jeff Greco and his colleague Brian Valerio to represent me in a dubious disorderly conduct charge, and I can say with full certainty that if you are in a similar position, they are the guys for you. From beginning to end, they were by far the most professional team I consulted, and as a result they were the ones I chose to represent me in court. At the hearing, the judge initially handed out an ACD, but Brian Valerio cleverly argued against the ruling and got the case completely dismissed within a few minutes. Greco Neyland is on the more expensive side, but if you have the means to bring these guys on board, they are worth the investment. This is your future, after all!
Mona Yang
16:09 22 Aug 18
Choosing Brian was THE BEST decision we ever made. Through the entire process, Brian tried his best to fight for the best result, met with the assigned ADA and we were eventually able to get the case dismissed straight away. We could never asked for a better result! Brian has a strong personality in court, and we have complete faith that he would do his best to fight for us. To those who are looking for an attorney --- Brian Valerio is the guy!
Chris S.
19:00 13 Jul 18
When I found myself in trouble I was referred to Jeff Greco as the solution to my problem. The first day I walked into his office and talked with him and his associate Brian Valerio to explain my case. Their level of attention to work and get the best results in my case was beyond my expectations. Both, Jeff and Brian, would provide me with answers every time I had a question regarding my case, without a doubt, they were always available to provide me the best service. Jeff and Brian managed to minimize my charges. To this day, I am very thankful I selected the right team to solve my case. Best attorneys you can have on your side. -Christian S
Michael Yu
22:21 03 Jul 18
It was a pleasure working with Brian Valerio on my case. He was attentive, prompt and very informative with all the questions I had. I would highly recommend working with him on any case or questions you might have.
Joanne Nevares
16:30 03 Jul 18
At first it was hard to find the proper dedicated attorneys in the Westchester Area for my needs but once I came across Greco Neyland attorneys I knew for sure that they would handle my needs with passion and care as they proved to do so. Jeff and Brian are both dedicated, knowledgable and passionate attorneys that alleviated a lot of stress and confusion, for that I am appreciative and I definitely would recommend anyone who is in need of an attorney to reach out to Greco Neyland Attorneys at Law.
Sofia Gentry
03:36 26 May 18
Jeffrey Greco is a friend in need! My best friend acquainted this firm with me and I am extremely grateful for having them to assist us with my case. It happened a few months ago, I got a speeding ticket going 90 mph in a 50 zone and caught driving under the influence of liquor. Within only two or three weeks working with this firm, my case was diminished to a negligible fine with 30 day community service. They were exceptionally expert and they made the whole procedure simple and stressful. I exceedingly recommend this firm!
Claudia Briver
08:04 25 May 18
My sister found Greco Neyland through the internet search and we were very impressed with the reviews we read from their previous clients. I contacted this firm and they were able to respond immediately. Set an appointment with them for consultation and came the next two days. As I arrived, the staffs greeted with smiles on their faces and assisted us quickly. Explained to them about my situation, submitted my ticket and paid a small fee. They made the whole process very easy and quick. My case was dismissed after a couple of weeks. Thank you guys! Really appreciate everything!
Kathleen Shockley
08:49 23 May 18
I had a great experience with Greco Neyland and I am very thankful I met them. I was very impressed with how they quickly worked on my DUI case and I was never been disappointed with the service we received from them. Jeff and his team were very attentive, they were always ready to help and they take time to keep us updated at every step of the way. I couldn't be more happier with the results and I will definitely use their service again in the future!
Iris Haughey
08:06 22 May 18
My close friend from work recommended Jeffrey Greco and I am very thankful that I met him. I was absolutely impressed with how he was able to quickly worked on my case and the result was beyond my expectation. Everyone in this firm was extremely helpful, always responsive, professional and they never fail to look after. Also, they made the whole process much easier and convenient for us. Again, I couldn't be happier with the result and I can't thank you guys enough for the great help!
Aumoe Coleshill
03:25 21 May 18
One of the best decision we made is choosing Greco Neyland for helping us with my sister's case. I can honestly say that Jeff Greco is one of the best defense attorneys in the area without question. Very professional in handling any case, always ready to help, approachable and he was very knowledgeable. We explained the nature of my sister's situation clearly and he was able to provide us great advices about our case. Thank you Jeff for everything!
Dona Robles
01:22 18 May 18
My brother recommended Greco Neyland and I am very thankful for having them to help us with my case. Jeffrey Greco was truly an outstanding attorney and the service we received from them was really great! Attorney Greco and his team truly did an amazing job on getting a very good result in my DUI case. Thank you so much to all who was always there to help us, from start to finish. Highly recommend!
Angela Parish
03:59 09 May 18
I was pretty worried about the potential outcome of the charge against me, but in the end, everything got dismissed and dropped. So, if you are charged with a crime, give yourself a distinct advantage. Simply the best!!!!!
Lenore Boswell
07:26 07 May 18
I am very pleased to shout out that Jeffery Greco is New York's best. He was firm straight to the point and the paralegal was great. Thank you all!!!
Jamie Jennings
07:38 04 May 18
I recently had to make use of Jeffrey's professional help and he was impressive from start to finish. I was considering of leaving the country to avoid facing consequences after being pulled over and charged with DUI for alcohol but he was brutally honest and not the type to fool around. He doesn't take it lightly. He was very professional and the outcome was better than expected. I would refer anyone who gets into trouble to him and his team they are great!
Lalaine Fisher
08:36 26 Apr 18
Bad things happen to good people and proper representation is a hot commodity in modern society. When I met Greco, , I realized this man didn't know what sugar coating meant, because he was very upfront and honest with me, as to what I was needing, even though I kept trying to deny it. If you want the best, look no further because Greco Neyland is second to none!
Moss Fairley
06:12 25 Apr 18
Don't waste your freedom and fund on money shark attorneys who take no personal pride in your case. Greco Neyland is a great lawyer who is responsible enough to guide and care for you. He understands and is very knowledgeable and confident in what he does, and he delivers excellent results. Now that I'm through it all, he's the only attorney I would refer a friend or family member to. Thank you again.
Chloe D
01:56 16 Apr 18
Jeff Greco has been extremely helpful on a number of questions because I had no prior knowledge to anything related to the law and he walked me through every step. . He is really good at what he does with years of experience and knowing how to use the system to his best advantage and know how both side work. Thank you Jeff Greco from myself and my family.
Robert K
07:25 12 Apr 18
I ran into a complete misleading and ridiculous accusation against me and after consulting to Jeff Greco, he unhesitatingly began gathering information/facts that would speak to my character. He felt very confident about the case after. His hard work and counsel helped me achieve the best outcome I could have imagined.
Gary H
03:09 27 Mar 18
I didn’t have a big case or major situation for Jeff to handle, but many questions about a small criminal matter. He took the time to speak with me over the phone and even meet in person to help with my situation. Eventually he helped to convince the ADA to throw out the charges. Thanks Jeff for taking on something much smaller than your normal cases - and thanks for making me feel just as important as your big case clients.
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CASE RESULTS
FEDERAL FELONY
Client faced a mandatory minimum of 10 years incarceration, we were able to secure a sentence of 1 day in jail.
BURGLARY
Client rejected all plea offers. After the trial concluded, the jury needed only 2 hours to acquit client of all felony charges, and even the criminal mischief charge as well.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
We were able to convince the Manhattan DA's office to dismiss the case without any ACD at all. The case was dismissed and sealed immediately.
BANK FRAUD
After preparing this case for a JURY TRIAL, the DA's office finally offered a reduced charge and gave my client a no-jail sentence of probation.
CASE RESULTS
FEDERAL FELONY
Client faced a mandatory minimum of 10 years' incarceration, we were able to secure a sentence of 1 day in jail.
BURGLARY
Client rejected all plea offers. After the trial concluded, the jury needed only 2 hours to ACQUIT client of all felony charges, and even the criminal mischief charge as well.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
We were able to convince the Manhattan DA's office to dismiss the case without any ACD at all. The case was dismissed and sealed immediately.
BANK FRAUD
After preparing this case for a JURY TRIAL, the DA's office finally offered a reduced charge and gave my client a no-jail sentence of probation.
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