Hit and Run Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Arlington County is a serious traffic offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Arlington County cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Hit and Run Statute
Virginia law, specifically Va. Code § 46.2-894, defines the offense commonly known as hit and run. The statute mandates that any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage must immediately stop as close to the scene as possible without obstructing traffic. The driver must then report 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. The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, brings a background in accounting and information systems, which is advantageous for cases involving complex evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for these cases are handled at the Arlington County General District Court.
Arlington County Court Process for Hit and Run
In Arlington County, a hit and run accident charge lawyer Arlington County will handle your case at the Arlington County General District Court. Prosecutors there routinely review police reports and any available video evidence. A common defense involves challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove you were the driver who knew an accident occurred.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a hit and run charge.
- Appear for your arraignment at Arlington County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including police reports and any traffic camera footage.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a possible reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for and proceed to trial if a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached.
Penalties for Hit and Run in Arlington County
In Arlington County, a hit and run involving only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the accident results in injury or death, the penalties increase significantly, potentially becoming a felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | DMV points; possible 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 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Or in the discretion of the jury, confinement in jail for up to twelve months and a fine of up to $2,500, either or both.
Our Experience with Traffic and Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have handled thousands of traffic and criminal cases across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our approach is based on thorough case analysis and assertive representation.
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
While specific hit and run results are protected by confidentiality, our firm’s documented approach in Arlington County has led to favorable outcomes in traffic and criminal matters. For example, we have secured dismissals for charges like destruction of property and littering in Arlington County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex cases is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Hit and Run Defense Near Arlington County Courthouse
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209 is strategically positioned to serve clients facing charges at the Arlington County General District Court. We serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. Contact a hit and run lawyer near Arlington County today.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hit and run a felony in Virginia?
It depends. A hit and run involving only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if the accident results in injury or death, the charge becomes a Class 5 felony under Virginia law, carrying potential prison time of 1 to 10 years.
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Arlington County?
First, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Then, contact a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Arlington County immediately. Your lawyer will obtain the police report, assess the evidence against you, and begin building a defense strategy for your arraignment at Arlington County General District Court.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run in Arlington County?
Yes. A hit and run is a jailable offense. A Class 1 misdemeanor conviction carries a maximum sentence of 12 months in jail. The actual outcome depends on the facts of your case, your driving record, and the effectiveness of your legal defense.
What are the defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity (you were not the driver), or that you complied with the law by stopping and reporting but the other party failed to acknowledge it. An experienced hit and run accident charge lawyer Arlington County can evaluate which defense applies to your situation.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
For a misdemeanor hit and run involving property damage, the court has discretion to suspend your license, and you will receive DMV points. If the hit and run involves injury or death (a felony), your license will be mandatorily revoked by the DMV.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page, our page for neighboring Alexandria City, or learn about DUI defense in Arlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.