Hit and Run Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Arlington County is a serious traffic crime 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. Our Arlington location is minutes from the courthouse.
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 injured person, or law enforcement. If the other party is incapacitated or the property owner is not present, the driver must report the accident to law enforcement within 24 hours. The core statute is Va. Code § 46.2-894 (Duty of driver to stop, etc., in event of accident).
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the Virginia statute, see the official Va. Code § 46.2-894. Court information and procedures can be found on the Arlington County General District Court website.
Defending a Hit and Run Charge in Arlington County
Prosecutors at the Arlington County General District Court must prove you were the driver, knew an accident occurred, and intentionally left the scene without fulfilling your legal duties. A common defense is lack of knowledge—arguing you were unaware a collision happened, which is more plausible in minor incidents or poor conditions. We also examine whether you attempted to locate the property owner or if your actions constituted a reasonable stop under the circumstances.
- Secure Representation Immediately: Contact a lawyer before making any statement to police or insurance companies.
- Investigate the Scene and Evidence: We review police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Based on the evidence, we may argue lack of knowledge, attempt to comply, or mistaken identity.
- Negotiate or Prepare for Trial: We seek a reduction to a non-criminal traffic offense or dismissal. If necessary, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Arlington County General District Court.
Potential Penalties for Hit and Run in Arlington County
In Arlington County, a hit and run conviction carries severe penalties including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| 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 license | Criminal record, 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 | Felony record, potential civil liability |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Arlington County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in Arlington County. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of local court procedures and prosecution strategies.
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 aids in analyzing accident reports and evidence.
Case Results
Our firm has achieved 21 documented case results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for those cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near Arlington County, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Arlington County courts. We represent individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Hit and Run Defense FAQs
What should I do if I’m charged with hit and run in Arlington County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer Arlington County immediately. We can advise you on your rights, investigate the charge, and begin building your defense for Arlington County General District Court.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run accident charge in Arlington County?
Yes. A hit and run involving only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail. A hit and run accident charge lawyer Arlington County can work to avoid jail time through negotiation or a strong defense at trial.
What if I didn’t know I hit something?
It depends. Lack of knowledge is a common defense. The prosecution must prove you were aware of the accident. An attorney will gather evidence (like damage severity, road conditions, witness statements) to support a claim you were unaware a collision occurred.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
For a property damage hit and run, the court has discretion to suspend your license. For hit and run involving injury or death, license revocation is mandatory. A lawyer can argue against suspension in your case.
Is hit and run a felony in Virginia?
Hit and run is a felony if the accident resulted in injury or death (Class 5 felony). If only property damage occurred, it is a misdemeanor. The specific facts of your leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Arlington County case determine the severity.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist with related matters like DUI defense in Arlington and reckless driving charges. For similar defense in a neighboring area, see our Alexandria criminal lawyer page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.