Arson Charges Mental Health
Summary
Arson in Pennsylvania is a serious felony under Title 18, § 3301. An insanity defense may be viable if mental illness affected understanding of actions. Proper treatment can mitigate sentencing. Consult a criminal defense attorney in Westmoreland County for guidance. Pro bono services may be available through local resources like the Westmoreland Bar Association or Neighborhood Legal Services.Full Conversation
i am anticipating. There was a typo in my question. He IS receiving therapy and IS receiving the proper medication
Thank you for clarifying. Given that your husband is receiving proper medication and therapy now, here's some general information about arson and mental health defenses in Ohio:
- **Ohio Law on Arson**: Under Ohio Revised Code § *.*, arson is a serious felony.
- **Insanity Defense**: Ohio allows an insanity defense if a defendant didn't know the wrongfulness of their actions due to mental illness.
- **Mitigating Factors**: Proper treatment and medication can be considered mitigating factors during sentencing.
Has your husband spoken to an attorney about the situation?
not as of yet. This all happened few weeks ago, in pa. He had check himself in to a behavioral health center. There were also * people in the house when the fire was started and pets
Thank you for providing more details. Given that the incident occurred in Pennsylvania, it's important to consider Pennsylvania law regarding arson and mental health defenses.
Pennsylvania Law on Arson and Mental Health Defenses:
- **Arson**: Under Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, Title *, § *, arson is a serious felony.
- **Insanity Defense**: Pennsylvania allows an insanity defense if a defendant didn't understand the nature or wrongfulness of their actions due to mental illness.
- **Mitigating Factors**: Proper treatment and medication can be considered as mitigating factors during sentencing.
Has your husband considered reaching out to a criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania to discuss potential defenses and next steps?
we have talked about it briefly. He is still in the mental health facility. He comes out tomorrow
Thank you for providing more information. It's crucial to consult with a criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania as soon as possible. They can offer specific legal guidance tailored to your husband's situation and help prepare for any potential charges.
Would you like assistance in finding a criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania?
yes please, Westmoreland county, preferably pro bono. He is disabled and I’m not working, having to leave the state for temporary housing with my sister
I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Here are some resources in Westmoreland County, PA, where you might find pro bono or low-cost legal assistance:
Westmoreland Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service
Phone: (*) *-*
Website: www.westbar.org
Neighborhood Legal Services
Phone: (*) *-*
Website: www.nlsa.us
They can help you find a criminal defense attorney who may work pro bono. Best of luck to you and your husband. thank you very much!
You're welcome! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, please feel free to ask. Best of luck to you and your husband.