Hit and Run Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in New Kent County is a serious traffic offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, potentially a Class 5 felony if injury occurs. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for hit and run accident charges. Our hit and run lawyer New Kent County team has handled cases at the New Kent County General District Court.
Virginia Hit and Run Law
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 a law enforcement officer. If the other party is incapacitated and no officer is present, the driver must report the accident to the nearest law enforcement agency. The statute is Va. Code § 46.2-894, titled “Duty of driver to stop, etc., in event of accident.”
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for New Kent County is available at the New Kent County Combined Court website.
New Kent County Court Process for Hit and Run
Hit and run cases in New Kent County begin with a summons or warrant. The New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle handles misdemeanor trials. If the charge is a felony due to injury, a preliminary hearing occurs in GDC before potential transfer to Circuit Court. Prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office must prove you were the driver, knew of the accident, and intentionally failed to stop and provide required information. A hit and run lawyer New Kent County can challenge evidence like witness identification or vehicle damage reports.
- Receive a summons or warrant for a hit and run charge.
- Arraignment at New Kent County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney reviews discovery (police report, witness statements, photos).
- Pre-trial motions may be filed to challenge evidence.
- Negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a possible reduction.
- If no agreement, proceed to a bench trial in GDC or jury trial in Circuit Court.
Penalties for Hit and Run in Virginia
In New Kent County, a hit and run carries penalties based on the accident’s outcome: property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor; injury or death is a Class 5 felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | DMV points; possible suspension | Civil liability for damages |
| Hit & Run (Injury) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent felony record |
| Hit & Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent felony record |
*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.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Traffic and Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a unique perspective on traffic and criminal cases like hit and run. We understand how these cases are investigated and built by law enforcement.
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 Virginia. While every case is unique, our approach is thorough and strategic. For example, we have successfully secured dismissals and reductions in charges such as reckless driving and driving on a suspended license. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law contribute to the firm’s depth of knowledge.
Hit and Run Defense Serving New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33. If you need a hit and run lawyer near New Kent County Courthouse, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Hit and Run Charges in New Kent County: FAQs
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in New Kent County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer New Kent County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, like photos of your vehicle or notes about where you were. Your first court date will be at the New Kent County General District Court.
Is a hit and run always a felony in Virginia?
No. A hit and run accident charge lawyer New Kent County will explain the severity depends on the outcome. Leaving the scene of an accident with only property damage is a misdemeanor. It becomes a felony if the accident caused injury or death.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run?
Yes. The DMV will assess points, and the court can suspend your driving privilege. A conviction for a felony hit and run involving injury or death results in a mandatory license revocation. A lawyer can argue for restricted driving privileges for work or essential needs.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Defenses include lack of knowledge of the accident, mistaken identity, or an emergency that prevented stopping. An attorney will investigate the evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness reliability, to build your defense strategy.
How long does a hit and run case take?
It depends on the charge’s complexity. A misdemeanor case in New Kent County General District Court may resolve in a few months. A felony case, which moves to Circuit Court, can take six months to a year or more, depending on motions and trial scheduling.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, consider our New Kent County DUI lawyer or reckless driving attorney services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For current advice regarding a hit and run charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.