Hit and Run Lawyer Hanover County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Hanover County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, classified as either a misdemeanor or felony. If you are facing a hit and run accident charge, you need a strong defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for hit and run cases in Hanover County.
Virginia Hit and Run Law and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
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 or a law enforcement officer. If the other party is injured and unable to receive the information, the driver must report the accident to the nearest law enforcement agency. The statute covering this is Va. Code § 46.2-894, titled “Duty of driver to stop, etc., in event of accident involving injury or death or damage to attended property.”
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court information for Hanover County can be found at the Hanover County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
In Hanover County, a hit and run charge begins with a summons or arrest. The case is heard at the Hanover County General District Court located at 7507 Library Drive. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction take leaving the scene of an accident charges seriously, especially if there is injury or significant property damage. The court process moves quickly, and having a lawyer who knows the local procedures is critical.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a hit and run charge.
- Attend your arraignment at Hanover County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your lawyer will review the evidence, including police reports and any witness statements.
- Your attorney will engage in pre-trial negotiations with the prosecutor to seek a favorable resolution.
- If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial in General District Court.
- You have the right to appeal a guilty verdict to Hanover County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run in Virginia
In Hanover County, a hit and run charge carries severe penalties that escalate based on the accident’s outcome, from a Class 5 felony for accidents involving injury or death to a Class 1 misdemeanor for property damage.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit and Run Involving Injury or Death | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent criminal record |
| Hit and Run Involving Attended Property Damage | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | DMV points; possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Hit and Run Involving Unattended Property Damage | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | DMV points | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Or, in the discretion of the jury or court, confinement in jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500, either or both.
Our Experience in Hanover County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of handling traffic and criminal matters in Central Virginia. Our approach is direct and focused on the details of your case. We know that a hit and run accident charge lawyer Hanover County clients trust must be prepared to challenge the evidence and present a strong defense.
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 and Client Focus
Our firm has handled numerous traffic and criminal cases with favorable outcomes. While specific results depend on the unique facts of each case, our goal is always to seek the best possible resolution, whether that is a dismissal, reduction of charges, or a favorable plea agreement. For a hit and run lawyer Hanover County residents can rely on, we provide diligent representation focused on protecting your driving privileges and your future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Defense Near Hanover County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Hanover County and the surrounding areas, including Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell. The Hanover County General District Court is accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. If you need a hit and run lawyer near Hanover County, 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
Is a hit and run a felony in Virginia?
It depends. A hit and run involving injury or death is a Class 5 felony. A hit and run involving only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The severity of the penalties increases significantly with the seriousness of the accident.
What should I do if I am charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Hanover County?
Contact a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Hanover County immediately. Do not speak to law enforcement or the other party’s insurance company without legal counsel. Your lawyer will guide you through the court process at Hanover County General District Court and work to protect your rights.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run in Virginia?
Yes. A conviction for a hit and run involving injury or death results in mandatory driver’s license revocation. For a hit and run involving property damage, the court has discretion to suspend your license, and you will receive DMV demerit points.
What are the defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, necessity to stop at a safe location to report the accident, or mistaken identity. A skilled hit and run accident charge lawyer Hanover County will investigate all angles, including police report accuracy and witness credibility.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor hit and run?
Yes. Even a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail, a large fine, and a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can often negotiate to reduce the charge or seek alternative dispositions that minimize the long-term impact on your life.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing a hit and run charge, you may also want to learn about DUI defense in Hanover County or reckless driving charges. For other localities, see our pages for Henrico County criminal defense and Chesterfield County criminal defense. Our main resource for this area of law is the Virginia criminal defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.