Hit and Run Lawyer in California
Being involved in a hit and run accident is a serious criminal offense in California. An experienced criminal lawyer can guide you through this stressful time, protect your rights, and provide strong legal representation.
Whether you are searching for a hit and run attorney near me, need a Los Angeles hit and run lawyer or Orange County, our team is ready to act immediately to protect your future.
What is a Hit and Run in California?
This crime occurs when a driver is involved in an accident causing injury, death, or property damage and leaves the scene without providing contact information or offering assistance. Under California law, failing to stop and identify yourself after an accident can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the severity of the accident.
Even minor accidents can carry serious legal consequences, which is why you need a knowledgeable hit and run attorney immediately.
Penalties for Hit and Run in California
The penalties for a hit and run vary depending on whether the accident involved property damage, injury, or death. For property damage only, the offense is usually a misdemeanor, punishable by fines, license suspension, and possible jail time.
If the accident causes injury, the driver can face felony charges with longer jail or prison sentences, significant fines, probation, and permanent marks on their criminal record.
In cases involving death, charges escalate to felony vehicular manslaughter or felony hit and run, carrying severe prison time. A skilled hit and run accident lawyer can help reduce charges, negotiate with prosecutors, and work to protect your future.
What to Do if You Are Arrested for a Hit and Run
If you are arrested for a hit and run, it is critical to remain calm and avoid making statements without an attorney present. Contacting a hit and run lawyer near me as soon as possible is essential.
Your attorney can advise you on your rights, handle interactions with law enforcement, gather evidence, and build a strong defense strategy. Do not try to handle the case on your own—California courts treat hit and run offenses very seriously, and a single mistake can have lasting consequences.
Why You Need a Hit and Run Attorney
Navigating a hit and run case without legal representation is extremely risky. A qualified hit and run lawyer can:
- investigate the accident thoroughly
- collect evidence
- negotiate with prosecutors
- represent you in court
- and work to minimize penalties.
They understand California’s legal system and can provide the aggressive defense needed to protect your driving privileges, your freedom, and your future. Choosing an attorney early is often the difference between a minor resolution and serious legal consequences.
Why Choose California Criminal Defense Center?
Our team of experienced hit and run attorneys provides personalized attention to every client. We serve clients in Los Angeles, Orange County and nearby areas, offering 24/7 availability for urgent cases.
With a proven track record of defending hit and run cases, we focus on delivering results while guiding you through every step of the legal process. When you hire us, you gain a dedicated advocate who understands the stakes and fights relentlessly for your rights.
Work with expert lawyers
Unlike many law offices that assign client cases to young associates, attorney Ardalon Fakhimi will personally handle all significant aspects of your case from start to finish, including all settlement discussions, negotiations, and the trial. He will personally answer all of your questions and navigate you through every stage of your case. We never use inexperienced associates who are just learning the practice of DUI law and criminal law. Similarly, we are NOT a high volume law office. Rather, we emphasize a very personalized attorney-client relationship where our clients are in continuous contact with their DUI and criminal lawyer; not their lawyer’s assistant. Finally, we are a detail-oriented law office that meticulously strategizes every case. That means no stone remains unturned during the course of our representation and through the final disposition of your case.
We serve clients from Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Torrance, for Domestic Violence, Petty Thefts, DUI Under-21 Cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.What is considered a hit and run in California?
A hit and run occurs when a driver is involved in an accident that causes injury, death, or property damage and leaves the scene without providing their information or helping the injured. California law treats this offense seriously, and it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the severity of the accident. Hiring a hit and run attorney early is crucial to protecting your rights.
2.What penalties can I face for a hit and run?
Penalties vary depending on the circumstances. For accidents involving only property damage, you may face fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. If someone is injured, you could face felony charges, significant fines, probation, or imprisonment. Accidents causing death can lead to severe felony charges with long-term prison sentences.
3.What should I do if I’m arrested for a hit and run?
If you are arrested, remain calm and do not make statements without an attorney present. Contacting a hit and run accident lawyer immediately is essential. Your attorney can advise you on your rights, interact with law enforcement, gather evidence, and build a strong defense to protect your future.
4.Why do I need a hit and run lawyer?
Hit and run cases can have serious criminal and civil consequences. A skilled hit and run attorney can investigate the accident, collect evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, represent you in court, and work to reduce charges or penalties. Legal representation greatly increases your chances of achieving the best possible outcome and protecting your rights.
Time is critical after a hit and run. Don’t face criminal charges alone. Contact our hit and run accident lawyers today for a free consultation, and let us help you protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.