When accusations of a crime come against a person, it does not automatically mean that he or she is guilty. A lengthy legal process is typically necessary in order for a court to determine whether someone is guilty of a crime. The person is presumed innocent, even of charges like murder, until — and only if — convicted by the court.

One man in Tennessee is likely hoping for a favorable outcome to his case after recently being arrested in connection with the deaths of two people. According to reports, a 32-year-old woman and her 4-month-old child were stabbed to death and then their home was set on fire. The sheriff’s department and firefighters arrived at the scene of the fire and believed that the fire was set intentionally.

The woman’s sister was reportedly the one who found the bodies. Allegedly, she told police that the mother had gotten into a dispute with the child’s father regarding child custody. It was unclear what evidence exists that otherwise connects the man to the crime, but nonetheless, he was taken into custody. He is currently facing charges for murder, arson and aggravated child abuse.

The murder charges and other allegations this Tennessee man faces can come with steep consequences if he is convicted. Because he has the right to defend against such accusations, he may want to work toward creating a meaningful defense presentation. The details of his case may affect the exact legal options available to him, so it is likely important for him to understand the specific charges he faces.