Hit and Run Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Alexandria is a serious traffic offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If you are facing a leaving the scene of an accident charge, securing a skilled hit and run lawyer Alexandria is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
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 involved parties, any injured person, or the property owner. If the other party is incapacitated or the property owner is not present, the driver must report the accident to law enforcement immediately. The statute, Va. Code § 46.2-894, defines these duties. Failure to comply constitutes the crime of “hit and run” or “leaving the scene of an accident.” The severity of the charge depends on whether the accident caused property damage only, injury, or death.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the Virginia statute, visit the official Virginia General Assembly website for Va. Code § 46.2-894. Court information for Alexandria can be found at the Alexandria General District Court website.
Defending a Hit and Run Charge in Alexandria
An experienced hit and run lawyer Alexandria can challenge the prosecution’s case on several fronts. Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, necessity to leave the scene to seek emergency medical help, or mistaken identity of the driver. In Alexandria, prosecutors must prove you were the driver, knew you were involved in an accident, and willfully failed to fulfill the statutory duties.
- Secure Legal Representation Immediately: Contact a hit and run lawyer Alexandria before speaking to police or insurance adjusters.
- Case Review & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain the police report, witness statements, and any available video evidence to identify weaknesses in the case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during the traffic stop or investigation.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable plea deal or prepare for a bench trial in GDC.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, advocate for minimal penalties. If found guilty, evaluate grounds for an appeal to Alexandria Circuit Court.
Penalties for Hit and Run in Alexandria
In Alexandria, a hit and run accident charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a driver’s license suspension for one year.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit and Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 1-year suspension | 6 DMV points; possible civil liability |
| Hit and Run (Injury) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 1-year suspension | 6 DMV points; felony if injury is severe |
| Hit and Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 1-year suspension | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Hit and Run Lawyers
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the immediate stress a hit and run charge creates and provide clear, direct guidance. Our hit and run lawyer Alexandria team, including former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, uses insider knowledge of police procedures to build strong defenses.
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 history of achieving positive results in traffic cases. For example, in a recent matter, our team successfully negotiated the amendment of a Drive Suspended charge. While specific outcomes depend on case facts, our approach focuses on minimizing penalties and protecting clients’ futures. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Alexandria courts. We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. A skilled hit and run accident charge lawyer Alexandria is accessible for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 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, it remains a misdemeanor unless the injury is severe. A hit and run causing a death is a Class 5 felony, punishable by 1-10 years in prison.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run in Alexandria?
Yes. A conviction for leaving the scene of an accident in Virginia triggers a mandatory driver’s license suspension for one year, as per Va. Code § 46.2-894. This is also to any jail time, fines, and DMV points.
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Immediately contact a hit and run lawyer Alexandria. Your lawyer will review the evidence, advise you on your rights, and develop a defense strategy, which may include negotiating a reduction to a lesser charge or taking the case to trial.
Can I get a hit and run charge reduced?
Yes, reduction is a common goal. An experienced attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor to amend the charge to a non-criminal traffic infraction like “Improper Driving” (Va. Code § 46.2-869), which carries a fine but no jail time or mandatory license suspension. The likelihood depends on the facts and your driving history.
How long does a hit and run case take in Alexandria?
A misdemeanor hit and run case in Alexandria General District Court typically takes 4 to 8 weeks from the arraignment date to reach a resolution, either through a plea agreement or a bench trial. More complex cases or those appealed to Circuit Court will take longer.
Contact a Hit and Run Lawyer Alexandria Today
If you are facing a hit and run or leaving the scene of an accident charge in Alexandria, time is critical. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a 24/7 consultation. We will review your case and explain your defense options. Call our toll-free number or local line to speak with a hit and run lawyer Alexandria.
Related Practice Areas: For other legal issues in Alexandria, see our pages for a DUI lawyer Alexandria or a reckless driving lawyer Alexandria.
Other Locations: We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Arlington County.
State Overview: For more information on Virginia criminal defense, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.