Mississippi § 97-17-1 - Arson; first degree; burning dwelling house or outbuilding.
Full text of Mississippi Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-17-1 — Arson; first degree; burning dwelling house or outbuilding., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 97-17-1. Arson; first degree; burning dwelling house or outbuilding.
Any person who willfully and maliciously sets fire to or burns or causes to be burned or who aids, counsels or procures the burning of any dwelling house, whether occupied, unoccupied or vacant, or any kitchen, shop, barn, stable or other outhouse that is parcel thereof, or belonging to or adjoining thereto, or any state-supported school building in this state whether the property of himself or of another, shall be guilty of arson in the first degree, and upon conviction thereof, be sentenced to the penitentiary for not less than five (5) nor more than twenty (20) years and shall pay restitution for any damage caused. Any person convicted under this section shall be subject to treble damages for any damage caused by such person. Any property used in the commission of the offense of arson in the first degree shall be subject to forfeiture as provided in Section 97-17-4.
Source: official Mississippi text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi § 97-17-1
What does Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-17-1 cover?
Section 97-17-1 ("Arson; first degree; burning dwelling house or outbuilding.") is part of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Mississippi. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Mississippi § 97-17-1?
A common citation format is "Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-17-1" (Mississippi). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Mississippi law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Mississippi official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Mississippi attorney.
How does Mississippi § 97-17-1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Mississippi can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Mississippi.