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 hit and run accident charges.
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 comply with these duties constitutes the crime of hit and run, or “leaving the scene of an accident.”
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County 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 at the Arlington County General District Court website.
Defending a Hit and Run Charge in Arlington County
Prosecutors at the Arlington County General District Court take hit and run cases seriously. A common defense involves challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove you were the driver who knew an accident occurred. For instance, you might not have felt a minor impact in heavy traffic. The key local procedural fact is that these cases are heard at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd. A strong defense often requires immediate investigation to secure evidence before it is lost.
- Secure Legal Representation Immediately: Contact a hit and run lawyer Arlington County as soon as possible after the incident or receiving a summons.
- Investigate the Accident Scene: Your attorney will gather evidence, including traffic camera footage, witness statements, and vehicle damage assessments.
- Review the Police Report: Identify any factual inaccuracies or procedural errors in the officer’s account of the incident.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will build a defense, which may involve negotiating for a reduced charge or preparing for trial.
- Attend All Court Hearings: Your attorney will represent you at all proceedings in Arlington County General District Court.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run Charge
In Arlington County, a hit and run accident charge lawyer Arlington County handles cases that carry severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit and Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Court may suspend license | Criminal record, increased insurance rates |
| Hit and Run (Injury) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, possible civil liability |
| Hit and Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, severe civil liability |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Or in the discretion of the jury, confinement in jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500, either or both.
Our Experience in Arlington County Courts
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 have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious traffic and criminal charges in Northern Virginia.
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
Our team includes seasoned attorneys like Mr. Sris, whose background as a former prosecutor and firm founder provides strategic oversight on complex cases. With 21 documented case results in Arlington County, our focused approach aims to protect your driving privileges and future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Arlington County courts (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). We are your local hit and run lawyer near Arlington, serving neighborhoods including Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, and Pentagon City.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hit and run a felony in Virginia?
It depends. Hit and run involving only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the accident results in injury or death, it is elevated to a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 46.2-894, carrying 1-10 years in prison.
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene?
Contact a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Arlington County immediately. Do not speak to police or insurance investigators without an attorney. Your lawyer will secure evidence, review the charge, and advise you on the best course of action for your specific situation.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run?
Yes. The court has discretion to suspend your license for a property damage hit and run. For hit and run involving injury or death, your license will be mandatorily revoked by the DMV upon conviction.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity, or an emergency that compelled you to leave the scene. An experienced hit and run accident charge lawyer Arlington County can evaluate the facts to identify the strongest defense strategy for your case.
How long does a hit and run case take?
A misdemeanor hit and run case in Arlington County General District Court typically takes 4-8 weeks from arraignment to trial. Felony cases move to Circuit Court and can take 3-9 months or longer to resolve.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in Alexandria. If you have other legal needs, consider our services for DUI defense or reckless driving in Arlington.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.