Hit and Run Lawyer Lexington — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Lexington 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 in Lexington.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
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 without obstructing traffic. The driver must provide their name, address, driver’s license number, and vehicle registration number to the other involved parties, any injured person, or the property owner. If the other party is incapacitated or the property owner is not present, the driver must report the accident to law enforcement immediately. The statute is Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). Failure to comply constitutes the crime of leaving the scene of an accident, commonly called hit and run.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 46.2-894 — Duty to stop in event of accident
- Lexington General District Court Official Website
Handling a Hit and Run Case in Lexington
The key local procedural fact is that Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor hit and run trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes these cases. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record and can lead to severe license suspension by the DMV.
- Secure Representation Immediately: Contact a hit and run lawyer Lexington as soon as possible after being charged or receiving a summons.
- Investigate the Accident Scene: Your attorney will gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage.
- Analyze the Charge: We examine whether the prosecution can prove you knowingly left the scene and that the accident met the statutory thresholds for reporting.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: This may involve negotiating for a reduced charge, such as improper driving, or preparing for trial to challenge the evidence.
- Appear in Lexington General District Court: We represent you at all hearings, from arraignment through trial or disposition.
- Address DMV Consequences: We advise on and help mitigate potential license suspension actions separate from the criminal case.
Penalties for Hit and Run in Lexington
In Lexington, a hit and run (leaving the scene of an accident) is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a mandatory 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 | Mandatory suspension by DMV | Criminal record, increased insurance rates |
| Hit and Run (Injury) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory suspension by DMV | Felony possible if injury severe; criminal record |
| Hit and Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | — | Revocation | Permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Lexington Hit and Run Lawyers
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 over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the immediate and long-term consequences of a hit and run charge in Lexington and provide full representation focused on protecting your driving privileges and future.
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 of favorable results in traffic and criminal cases. In one instance, our team successfully defended a client facing a hit and run accident charge lawyer Lexington might handle, resulting in the charge being amended to a non-criminal traffic infraction. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. A former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, he has personally amended Virginia law (Va. Code § 20-107.3) and maintains a multi-state practice.
Contact Our Lexington Hit and Run Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Lexington and the surrounding areas. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. If you need a hit and run lawyer near Lexington, Virginia Military Institute (VMI), or Washington and Lee University, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hit and Run in Lexington
Is hit and run a felony in Virginia?
It depends. A hit and run involving only property damage or minor injury is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if the accident results in a death, the charge becomes a Class 5 felony, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison.
Will I lose my license for a hit and run in Lexington?
Yes, the Virginia DMV will administratively suspend your driver’s license upon conviction for leaving the scene of an accident, regardless of the jail sentence. The suspension period is mandatory and separate from any criminal penalties imposed by the court.
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Lexington?
First, do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney. Then, immediately contact a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Lexington who can protect your rights. An attorney can investigate the circumstances, advise you on the strength of the evidence, and begin building a defense strategy for your case in Lexington General District Court.
Can I fight a hit and run charge if I didn’t know I hit something?
Yes, a common defense is lack of knowledge. The prosecution must prove you were aware that an accident occurred. If you can show you had no reason to know your vehicle made contact with another person or object, it may be a valid defense. An experienced hit and run lawyer Lexington can help gather evidence to support this claim.
How long does a hit and run case take in Lexington?
A misdemeanor hit and run case in Lexington General District Court typically takes 4 to 8 weeks from arraignment to trial. However, cases can be resolved sooner through negotiation or may take longer if continued for further investigation or motions. Felony hit and run cases in Circuit Court take several months.
Related Legal Services in Lexington
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI/DWI in Lexington, reckless driving, and criminal defense. For a broader view of our traffic defense practice, visit our Virginia traffic lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.