Hit and Run Lawyer Colonial Heights — Defending Leaving the Scene Charges
A hit and run in Colonial Heights is a serious offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, carrying potential jail time, fines, and license suspension. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for hit and run accident charges.
Virginia Hit and Run Law and Penalties
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 property owner is not present, the driver must report the accident to law enforcement within 24 hours. Failure to comply with these duties constitutes the crime of “hit and run” or “leaving the scene of an accident.”
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, review Va. Code § 46.2-894 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Colonial Heights can be found at the Colonial Heights General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
In Colonial Heights, a hit and run charge is typically initiated by a police report and a summons to appear in Colonial Heights General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will review the evidence, which may include witness statements, surveillance footage, and vehicle damage reports. The specific circumstances, such as whether there was injury or only property damage, heavily influence the prosecution’s approach and potential penalties.
- Receive the Summons: You will get a court date for an arraignment at Colonial Heights General District Court (550 Boulevard).
- Initial Hearing (Arraignment): You will be formally advised of the charge and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial and Discovery: Your attorney will review all evidence against you, file motions, and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Resolution: Your case may proceed to a bench trial before a judge or be resolved through a plea agreement.
- Appeal (if applicable): If convicted, you have the right to appeal the decision to Colonial Heights Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run in Virginia
In Colonial Heights, a hit and run carries severe penalties that escalate based on whether the accident involved property damage, injury, or death.
| 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 | Civil liability for damages |
| Hit & Run (Injury) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Felony criminal record |
| Hit & Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Felony criminal record |
*Or up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the discretion of the jury or court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Hit and Run Defense
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 record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a hit and run charge can be overwhelming, and our team is committed to providing a clear, strategic defense focused on protecting your driving privileges and future.
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 and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in traffic and criminal cases. For example, our attorneys have successfully secured amendments to lesser charges and dismissals in cases involving driving on suspended licenses and other traffic offenses. In one instance, a charge was amended from driving on a suspended license to “No Driver’s License,” significantly reducing the potential penalties for the client.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Defense Lawyer Near Colonial Heights, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients in Colonial Heights and the surrounding Central Virginia region. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. We provide legal representation to residents throughout Colonial Heights.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hit and Run Charges
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Colonial Heights?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer Colonial Heights immediately. Gather any evidence you have, such as photos of your vehicle, and write down everything you remember about the incident for your attorney.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run accident charge in Virginia?
Yes. A hit and run involving only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail. If the accident caused injury or death, it becomes a felony with a potential prison sentence of 1-10 years.
What are the defenses to a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Colonial Heights might use?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity of the driver, or an emergency that necessitated leaving the scene to get help. A skilled leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Colonial Heights can evaluate the evidence to identify the strongest defense for your situation.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
For a hit and run involving property damage, the court has discretion to suspend your license. If the accident resulted in injury or death, the DMV is required by law to revoke your driving privilege for one year.
Should I just plead guilty to a hit and run to get it over with?
No. A guilty plea guarantees a criminal conviction on your record, which can affect employment, insurance rates, and your driver’s license. Always consult with a hit and run accident charge lawyer Colonial Heights to explore all options, including defenses and potential plea negotiations to a lesser offense.
If you are facing a hit and run charge, time is critical. Contact a hit and run lawyer Colonial Heights from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a 24/7 consultation to discuss your defense. We represent clients at the Colonial Heights General District Court and throughout Virginia.
Internal Resources: For more information on traffic defense, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Chesterfield County and Henrico County. For related legal issues in Colonial Heights, consider our DUI defense or reckless driving defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.