What is the standard juvenile sentencing range for 2nd degree arson?

The juvenile sentencing system is designed to ensure that offenders whose offenses and criminal histories are similar receive substantially similar sentences. Presumptive sentencing schedules are structured so that offenses involving greater harm to a victim and to society result in greater punishment. The system in Washington State will account for 1. The age of the offender; 2. The seriousness of the crime; 3. The number of prior and current felony convictions; 4. If the State added an enhancement (such as a firearm enhancement); and 5. Whether there is a basis to seek a "manifest injustice" sentence. The juvenile system recognizes that kids are different from adults. We can probably all remember some things that we did as kids that we would never think to repeat as adults. Presumptive sentences for juvenile offenders are significantly less than like offenses committed by adults. For someone with no prior felony convictions, the standard range for an Arson-2 conviction is what is known as a "local sanction." A local sanction may include the following: 0 - 30 days of confinement, and/or 0 - 12 months of community supervision, and/or 0 - 150 hours of community restitution, and/or $0 - $500 fine. Be advised that the court may go outside the standard range with a Manifest Injustice sentence if "the imposition of the standard range poses a clear and serious danger to society." Further, the standard range for an Arson-1 is 103 - 129 weeks in custody. If your son does not already have an attorney, he will want to find one who specializes in criminal law, one has considerable felony experience and has worked with juveniles. As a juvenile, he should qualify for a public defender. You may also retain one on his behalf. (If you pay for the attorney's services, it is important to remember that the attorney would be working for your son and not you). The attorney will focus on protecting your son's interests, review the State's evidence, determine what defense investigation needs to take place, advise him on whether it is in his interest to take the case to trial or try to resolve it and challenge the State's case at trial. I believe that I read about your son's case in the paper. Feel free to call me about it; I would be happy to discuss it with you and him. I can be reached anytime at the telephone numbers below. Let me know if I can be of assistance. Tim Leary 206-382-2401 office 206-972-2401 cell