Hit and Run Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in New Kent 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. provides defense for hit and run accident charges.
Virginia Hit and Run Law and Penalties
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 without obstructing traffic. The driver must provide their name, address, driver’s license number, and vehicle registration number to the other party, any law enforcement officer, or any person attending the injured person. If the other party is incapacitated and no law enforcement officer is present, the driver must report the accident to the nearest law enforcement agency or the State Police as soon as possible. The statute is Va. Code § 46.2-894.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for New Kent County is available at the New Kent County General District Court website.
Defending a Hit and Run Charge in New Kent County
Prosecutors in New Kent County must prove you were the driver, knew an accident occurred, and knowingly failed to stop and provide the required information. A strong defense often challenges the evidence on one of these elements. For instance, you may not have realized a minor contact constituted an “accident,” or the state may lack proof you were driving.
- Secure Representation Immediately: Contact an attorney before speaking to police or insurance investigators about the incident.
- Case Analysis: Your attorney will review the police report, witness statements, and any available video evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Negotiation: An attorney may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to reduce the charge to a lesser offense, such as improper driving, which carries no jail time.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare a defense for trial, which may include challenging the identification of the driver or vehicle.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run
In New Kent County, a hit and run (leaving the scene of an accident) is a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties of up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit and Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Court may suspend for up to 12 months | 6 DMV points; increased insurance rates |
| Hit and Run (Injury/Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent criminal record; 6 DMV points |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Hit and Run Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the immediate stress a hit and run charge creates and work to resolve your case efficiently.
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
Our team includes Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which is particularly useful in cases involving complex evidence.
Case Results in Traffic and Criminal Defense
While specific hit and run results are protected by confidentiality, our approach in New Kent County has yielded positive outcomes in traffic and criminal matters. We have achieved dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing serious charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249, serving New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Hit and Run Defense FAQs for New Kent County
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in New Kent County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer New Kent County immediately. An attorney can protect your rights, investigate the charge, and begin building your defense for New Kent County General District Court.
Can a hit and run charge be reduced or dismissed?
It depends. Outcomes depend on the evidence, your driving record, and the specifics of the accident. An attorney may negotiate a reduction to a non-criminal traffic offense or seek dismissal if the prosecution cannot prove you knowingly left the scene.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and felony hit and run?
A misdemeanor hit and run in New Kent County typically involves only property damage. A hit and run accident charge lawyer New Kent County handles felony cases when the accident results in injury or death, which is a Class 5 felony with much more severe penalties.
Will I go to jail for a first-time hit and run?
Not necessarily. For a first offense with only property damage, an attorney can often argue for alternatives to jail, such as fines, driver improvement clinic, or community service. The goal is to avoid a custodial sentence.
How can a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer New Kent County help me?
A lawyer examines the evidence for flaws, negotiates with the prosecutor, and represents you in court. They work to minimize the impact on your license, record, and insurance, aiming for the best possible resolution under Va. Code § 46.2-894.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you have other legal needs, consider our services for DUI defense in New Kent County or reckless driving tickets.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.