Intro to Paralegal Studies Practice

Which of the following acts could be classified as arson?

1. Lighting a campfire without permission

2. Burning a neighbor's trash with intent to harm

3. Accidentally starting a fire while cooking

4. Burning leaves in one’s yard

The correct answer is: Burning a neighbor's trash with intent to harm

The act that is classified as arson is the act of intentionally setting fire to property with the intent to cause harm or damage. In this context, burning a neighbor's trash with the intent to harm demonstrates a clear intention to damage another person's property, which aligns with the legal definition of arson. This unlawful intent and the act of causing destruction through fire are critical components in establishing arson. While the other options involve fire-related actions, they do not meet all the elements required for arson. For example, lighting a campfire without permission may breach regulations or local laws regarding fire safety but does not necessarily indicate intent to cause harm. Accidentally starting a fire while cooking clearly lacks the intentional element required for arson. Burning leaves in one’s yard can also be subject to local ordinance violations but typically does not involve the intent to damage or destroy property belonging to another individual. Thus, the focus on intent and potential harm makes burning a neighbor's trash the only act that fits the definition of arson.