Hit and Run Lawyer Fauquier County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run accident charge lawyer Fauquier County handles is a serious offense under Virginia law. Leaving the scene of an accident in Fauquier County is a crime that can result in license suspension, fines, and even jail time. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these charges.
Virginia Hit and Run Law
In Virginia, a hit and run is legally defined as “leaving the scene of an accident” under Va. Code § 46.2-894. The law requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop, provide their information, and render reasonable assistance. Failing to do so constitutes a crime. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the accident—whether it involved property damage only, injury, or death.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier 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 Fauquier County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
In Fauquier County, a hit and run case begins with a summons or arrest. The case is heard at the Fauquier County General District Court at 6 Court Street in Warrenton. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction take these charges seriously, especially if there was an injury. A strategic defense often involves challenging the evidence that you were the driver, knew an accident occurred, or knowingly left the scene.
- Receive a summons or warrant for leaving the scene of an accident.
- Arraignment at Fauquier County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery to review the Commonwealth’s evidence.
- Negotiation with the prosecutor for a possible reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial to contest the charges if no agreement is reached.
- If convicted in GDC, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County, a hit and run carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony, depending on whether the accident caused injury, death, or property damage.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | DMV points; criminal record |
| Hit & Run (Injury) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 1-year suspension | Felony record; possible restitution |
| Hit & Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 1-year suspension | Felony record; potential civil liability |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Fauquier County Courts
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local procedures and personnel in Fauquier County courts. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your driving privileges and record.
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 team has secured favorable outcomes in traffic and criminal cases across Virginia. In Fauquier County, we have documented results defending clients against serious charges. For instance, our attorneys have successfully negotiated reductions of charges like reckless driving to lesser offenses, protecting clients from jail time and license suspension.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex cases is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which aids in cases involving technical or financial evidence.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near Fauquier County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fauquier County courts (6 Court Street, Warrenton). We are accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We provide legal representation to residents in Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
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 only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the accident resulted in injury or death, it is charged as a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 46.2-894. The penalties increase significantly for felony charges.
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Fauquier County?
Do not speak to police or insurance investigators without an attorney. Contact a hit and run accident charge lawyer Fauquier County based immediately. Your lawyer will obtain the evidence, advise you on your rights, and represent you at the Fauquier County General District Court to protect your license and future.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run in Virginia?
Yes. A conviction for leaving the scene of an accident carries a mandatory driver’s license suspension. For property damage, it’s 6 months. For accidents involving injury or death, the mandatory suspension is one year, as dictated by the Virginia DMV.
What defenses are there to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity of the driver, or that you did stop and fulfill your duties but were unable to locate the other party. An experienced hit and run lawyer Fauquier County residents can rely on will investigate to find the best defense for your situation.
How can a lawyer help with a hit and run charge?
A lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor to potentially reduce the charge to a non-hit and run offense, such as improper driving. They challenge the evidence, represent you in court, and work to avoid the mandatory license suspension and criminal record associated with a conviction for leaving the scene of an accident.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing a hit and run charge, you may also want to learn about DUI defense in Fauquier County or reckless driving charges. For an overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax County.