Hit and Run Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Alexandria 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 extensive experience defending clients at Alexandria General District Court.
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 and no police are present, the driver must report the accident to the nearest law enforcement agency. Failure to fulfill these duties constitutes the crime of hit and run, or leaving the scene of an accident.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Alexandria General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
In Alexandria, a hit and run charge is typically initiated by a police officer filing a summons or warrant. Your first court date is an arraignment at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor). You will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you plead not guilty, the case is set for a trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you were the driver, knew you were in an accident, and willfully failed to stop and provide the required information.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a hit and run violation.
- Attend your arraignment at Alexandria General District Court to enter a plea.
- If pleading not guilty, work with your attorney to review the Commonwealth’s evidence and file any pre-trial motions.
- Present your defense at a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- If convicted, you can appeal for a new trial in Alexandria Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run in Alexandria
In Alexandria, a hit and run involving only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor, but penalties increase sharply if the accident caused injury or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit and Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6 DMV points; possible suspension | Criminal record; increased insurance costs |
| Hit and Run (Injury) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record; severe insurance impacts |
| Hit and Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record; potential civil lawsuit |
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 twelve months and a fine of up to $2,500, either or both.
Our Experience in Alexandria Traffic Court
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of local court procedures. For instance, our team is familiar with the specific practices at the Alexandria General District Court, where we actively defend clients.
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 outcomes in traffic and criminal cases across our service areas. For example, we have successfully defended clients against charges like driving on a suspended license, achieving amendments to lesser offenses. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Defense Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients in Alexandria. We represent individuals at the Alexandria General District Court. We serve Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209, United States
By appointment only.
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. If the accident resulted in injury or death, it is charged as a Class 5 felony, which carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run accident in Alexandria?
Do not speak to police or insurance investigators without an attorney. Contact a hit and run accident charge lawyer Alexandria immediately. Your attorney will obtain the evidence, assess the strength of the case against you, and advise you on the best defense strategy before your court date.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run in Alexandria?
Yes. A misdemeanor hit and run conviction carries a maximum sentence of 12 months in jail. A felony hit and run conviction carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 10 years, though sentencing guidelines and circumstances influence the actual penalty.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity of the driver, or an emergency that necessitated leaving the scene. An experienced hit and run lawyer Alexandria can evaluate the facts to identify the most effective defense for your situation.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
Yes, likely. The DMV will assess 6 demerit points for a misdemeanor conviction, which can lead to suspension. A felony conviction results in mandatory license revocation. An attorney may help you avoid conviction or seek a restricted license.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Arlington County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Alexandria DUI lawyer services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.