In Roanoke County, arson under Va. Code § 18.2-77 is a Class 4 felony carrying 2-10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 3 documented results in Roanoke County. An Arson Lawyer Roanoke County can build a strong defense against these serious charges.
Under Virginia law, arson is defined as the willful and malicious burning of a dwelling house, outbuilding, or other structure. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-77, which covers burning or destroying a dwelling house or other building. A conviction for arson carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. The prosecution must prove intent to burn beyond a reasonable doubt. An arson charge defense lawyer Roanoke County understands the specific elements the Commonwealth must prove.
Last verified: April 2026 | Roanoke County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-77 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For more information on Virginia arson laws, review the official statute at Va. Code § 18.2-77 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for these cases are handled at the Roanoke County General District Court (official court website).
Roanoke County General District Court handles preliminary hearings for arson felonies before transfer to Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Roanoke County prosecutes these cases aggressively. An arson charge defense lawyer Roanoke County can challenge evidence of intent and origin of the fire.
- Contact an Arson Lawyer Roanoke County immediately after arrest or investigation.
- Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Preserve any evidence that may support an accidental cause defense.
- Attend all court hearings at Roanoke County General District Court.
- Work with your lawyer to file motions to suppress improper evidence.
- Prepare for potential transfer to Roanoke County Circuit Court for trial.
In Roanoke County, arson under Va. Code § 18.2-77 carries 2-10 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arson of dwelling house | Class 4 felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent criminal record, loss of gun rights |
| Arson of other structure | Class 5 felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds arson cases. An Arson Lawyer Roanoke County from our team can provide the experienced representation you need.
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
In Roanoke County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 3 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (33% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Roanoke County courts (305 East Main Street), accessible via I-81, I-581, Route 11, Route 419, and Route 220. An Arson Lawyer Roanoke County is available near Salem, Vinton, Cave Spring, Hollins, and Catawba. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
What is the penalty for arson in Roanoke County, Virginia?
Yes, arson under Va. Code § 18.2-77 is a Class 4 felony carrying 2-10 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.
Can arson charges be reduced in Roanoke County?
It depends. Charges may be reduced if the fire was accidental or if the prosecution cannot prove intent. An arson charge defense lawyer Roanoke County can negotiate for lesser charges.
Do I need a lawyer for an arson charge in Roanoke County?
Yes. Arson is a serious felony with mandatory prison time. A fire-related criminal charge lawyer Roanoke County can protect your rights and build a defense against these allegations.
How does bail work for arson in Roanoke County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Secured bond is typical for arson felonies. Bond can be appealed to Roanoke County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for arson in Roanoke County?
Roanoke County General District Court handles preliminary hearings for arson felonies. Roanoke County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC.