Hit and Run Lawyer Augusta County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Augusta County is a serious traffic offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented case results defending clients in Augusta County courts.
Virginia Hit and Run Statute
Virginia law requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop at the scene or as close as possible. You must provide your name, address, driver’s license, and vehicle registration number to the other driver, occupant, or property owner. If the owner is not present, you must report the accident to law enforcement within 24 hours. Failure to comply with these duties constitutes the crime of leaving the scene of an accident, commonly called hit and run.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Augusta County General District Court website.
Augusta County Court Process for Hit and Run Charges
Hit and run cases in Augusta County begin with a summons or arrest. The Augusta County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at the Augusta County General District Court located at 6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton. The court handles all misdemeanor trials. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record and can lead to license suspension by the DMV.
- Receive Your Summons: You will get a court date for an arraignment at Augusta County General District Court.
- Enter a Plea: At arraignment, you will plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. A not guilty plea sets a trial date.
- Review Discovery: Your attorney will obtain the evidence against you, including police reports, witness statements, and any video.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Strategies may include challenging the identification of your vehicle, proving you were unaware of the accident, or negotiating for a reduced charge.
- Resolution: Your case may be resolved through a motion to dismiss, a plea agreement, or a trial before a judge.
- Appeal (if applicable): If convicted, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Augusta County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Hit and Run in Augusta County
In Augusta County, a hit and run charge carries severe penalties including jail time, fines, and a criminal record. The specific penalties depend on whether the accident involved property damage only, injury, or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible DMV suspension | Criminal record, increased insurance |
| Hit & Run (Injury) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 1-year suspension* | Felony if injury is severe |
| Hit & Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 1-year suspension* | Permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Va. Code § 46.2-894 requires a one-year driver’s license suspension for any hit and run conviction involving injury or death.
Our Experience in Augusta County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of case results across our practice areas. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of Virginia traffic law and local court procedures.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results
Our firm has achieved favorable outcomes in traffic and criminal cases. In one instance, a reckless driving charge of 94/70 mph was amended to improper driving. In another, a charge for driving on a suspended license was amended to a non-driving violation. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our managing attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which aids in cases involving technical or financial evidence.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near Augusta County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64, serving communities including Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am charged with a hit and run in Augusta County?
Contact a hit and run lawyer Augusta County immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone else. Your attorney will review the summons, evidence, and begin building your defense strategy for Augusta County General District Court.
Can a hit and run charge be reduced?
It depends on the facts. A skilled leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Augusta County may negotiate to reduce a Class 1 misdemeanor hit and run to a lesser traffic offense like improper driving, which carries no jail time and lower fines, depending on the circumstances and your record.
Is a hit and run a felony in Virginia?
Not always. A hit and run involving property damage or injury is typically a misdemeanor. However, a hit and run accident charge becomes a Class 5 felony if the accident resulted in a death, with penalties of 1-10 years in prison.
Will I lose my license for a hit and run?
Yes, likely. For a conviction involving injury or death, Va. Code § 46.2-894 mandates a one-year license suspension. For property damage-only convictions, the court has discretion to suspend your driving privilege, and the DMV may also take administrative action.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity of the vehicle or driver, or an emergency that legally justified leaving the scene. An experienced hit and run lawyer Augusta County can evaluate which defense applies to your case.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Shenandoah County. In Augusta County, we also handle DUI defense.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.