A hit and run in Botetourt County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, classified as either a misdemeanor or felony based on injury and damage. A conviction can mean jail, fines, and a permanent criminal record. 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 to immediately stop at the scene, provide their information, and render reasonable aid. Leaving the scene of an accident, commonly called a hit and run, is prosecuted under Va. Code § 46.2-894. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the crash.
Last verified: April 2026 | Botetourt 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 Botetourt County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
In Botetourt County, a hit and run charge begins with a summons or arrest. The case is heard at the Botetourt County General District Court at 20 E. Back Street, Suite A, Fincastle. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that the court handles all misdemeanor hit and run trials; felony cases start here for a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Receive a summons or be arrested on the hit and run charge.
- Attend your arraignment at Botetourt County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Review all evidence with your attorney, including police reports and any video.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge the evidence or seek a reduction.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor or prepare for a bench trial in GDC.
- If charged with a felony, your case may proceed to Botetourt County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run Conviction
In Botetourt County, a hit and run conviction carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class 5 felony, with potential jail time, fines, and license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Hit & Run (Injury) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, possible prison |
| Hit & Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, possible prison |
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.
Our Experience in Botetourt County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients in Botetourt County and across Virginia. Our approach is based on detailed case analysis and assertive courtroom 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
Our firm has achieved 33 total documented case results across all practice areas in Botetourt County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. For example, our attorneys have successfully had charges like reckless driving reduced to improper driving and driving on suspended charges amended. In hit and run cases, defense strategies often focus on challenging the evidence that the driver knew they were in an accident or on negotiating for a reduced charge.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including former prosecutor Mr. Sris, works collaboratively, bringing diverse perspectives to build a strong defense.
Hit and Run Defense Near Botetourt County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Botetourt County courts in Fincastle. We are accessible via I-81 and represent clients from Fincastle, Daleville, Troutville, Blue Ridge, and Eagle Rock. If you need a hit and run lawyer near Botetourt County, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 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 results in injury or death, it is charged as a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 46.2-894.
What should I do if I am charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Botetourt County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run accident charge lawyer Botetourt County immediately. Your attorney will obtain the police report, review any evidence, and begin building your defense for your court date at Botetourt County General District Court.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run in Virginia?
Yes. A misdemeanor hit and run carries up to 12 months in jail. A felony hit and run carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 10 years, though sentencing can vary based on the specifics of the case.
What are the 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. A leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Botetourt County can evaluate the facts to identify the strongest defense strategy for your situation.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
Yes, likely. The DMV has the authority to suspend your license for a hit and run conviction. For a felony hit and run involving injury or death, license revocation is mandatory. An attorney can advise on potential restoration.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.