Hit and Run Lawyer Dinwiddie County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Dinwiddie County is a serious 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. If property damage exceeds $1,000 or injury occurs, it becomes a felony. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Hit and Run Law
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. You must provide your name, address, driver’s license, and vehicle registration number to the other driver, occupant, or property owner. If no one is present to receive the information, you must report the accident to law enforcement within 24 hours. Failure to comply is “leaving the scene of an accident,” commonly called hit and run.
The severity of the charge depends on the accident’s outcome. A hit and run involving only property damage is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the accident causes injury, it becomes a Class 5 felony (1-10 years in prison). If it results in a death, it is a Class 4 felony (2-10 years). The court also imposes a mandatory driver’s license suspension.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact statutory language, review Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for Dinwiddie County are managed by the Dinwiddie County General District Court.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Contact a lawyer before speaking to police or insurance adjusters. Statements can be used against you.
- Gather and Preserve Evidence: Collect photos of the scene, your vehicle, witness contact information, and any surveillance footage.
- Attend Your Arraignment: You will be formally charged at Dinwiddie County General District Court. Your attorney will enter a plea.
- Review Discovery: Your lawyer will obtain the police report, witness statements, and any video evidence from the prosecution.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Defenses may include lack of knowledge of the accident, intent to return to the scene, or mistaken identity.
- Resolution: Your attorney will seek the best outcome, which could be a dismissal, reduction to a non-criminal traffic offense, or a favorable plea agreement to minimize penalties.
Penalties for a Hit and Run in Dinwiddie County
In Dinwiddie County, a hit and run accident charge carries severe penalties including jail time, fines, and a mandatory license suspension, with the classification escalating based on 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 | Mandatory suspension | Civil liability for damages |
| Hit & Run (Injury) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent criminal record |
| Hit & Run (Death) | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | Mandatory revocation | Felony conviction on record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Hit and Run Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that a hit and run charge can stem from panic or confusion. Our approach is to thoroughly investigate the circumstances, challenge the evidence of intent, and work to protect your future. In Dinwiddie County, we have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious traffic and criminal allegations.
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 a documented record in Dinwiddie County. In one case, a charge of “Fail to Maintain Control” was dismissed at Dinwiddie County GDC. In other jurisdictions, we have successfully had charges like “Drive Suspended” amended to a non-criminal offense and reckless driving charges reduced to improper driving. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our managing attorney, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law demonstrate a deep understanding of legal strategy.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near Dinwiddie County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Dinwiddie County courts (Dinwiddie Courthouse), accessible via I-85, Route 1, and Route 460. We are your local hit and run lawyer near Dinwiddie, also serving McKenney.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Dinwiddie County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer Dinwiddie County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, like photos or witness info, and provide it to your lawyer. Your attorney will guide you through the process at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Is a hit and run a felony in Virginia?
It depends. A hit and run with only property damage is a misdemeanor. If the accident causes injury, it becomes a Class 5 felony. If it results in a death, it is a Class 4 felony. The specific facts of your leaving the scene of an accident charge determine the severity.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run in Dinwiddie County?
Yes. A misdemeanor hit and run carries up to 12 months in jail. A felony hit and run involving injury carries 1-10 years, and one involving death carries 2-10 years. An experienced hit and run accident charge lawyer Dinwiddie County can work to mitigate these penalties, potentially seeking alternatives to incarceration.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
Yes. Virginia law mandates a driver’s license suspension for any hit and run conviction. The length of suspension varies. A skilled hit and run lawyer Dinwiddie County may argue for a restricted license for work or essential needs as part of your defense strategy.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, intent to return to the scene but being prevented, or mistaken identity of the driver. A lawyer will investigate the evidence to find the strongest defense for your specific situation.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County and with related issues such as DUI defense in Dinwiddie.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.