Leaving the Scene Defense Lawyer in Clarke County, Virginia
A hit and run charge in Clarke County is a serious criminal offense under Virginia law, not a simple traffic ticket. If you are accused of leaving the scene of an accident, you need a dedicated leaving the scene defense lawyer Clarke County. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Clarke County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Leaving the Scene of an Accident
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. You must provide your name, address, driver’s license, and vehicle registration number to the other driver, any injured person, or law enforcement. Failing to do so constitutes a hit and run, governed by Va. Code § 46.2-894. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the accident.
- Secure representation immediately after being charged or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and review the police report, witness statements, and any available video evidence.
- A defense strategy is developed, which may involve negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or presenting evidence at a bench trial.
- Your case will be heard before a judge at the Clarke County General District Court.
Penalties for a Hit and Run Conviction in Clarke County
In Clarke County, leaving the scene of an accident carries severe penalties that escalate based on whether the accident caused property damage, injury, or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving scene with property damage only | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension for up to 6 months | Permanent criminal record; increased insurance premiums |
| Leaving scene with injury | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months if misdemeanor) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation for 1 year | Felony record; potential civil liability |
| Leaving scene with death | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation for 1 year | Felony record; severe civil liability |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Clarke County Traffic and Criminal Cases
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In Clarke County traffic matters, our team has secured dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing serious charges. Our approach is grounded in a thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy case-specific to the local court.
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
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Case Results for Clarke County Traffic Offenses
Our firm has a history of achieving positive results for clients in Clarke County. For example, we have successfully negotiated for clients charged with reckless driving by speed to have their charges amended to lesser offenses, avoiding jail time and minimizing license penalties. In hit and run cases, a strong defense by a fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Clarke County can mean the difference between a felony conviction and a case dismissal. We meticulously examine the facts to protect your rights.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Leaving the Scene Defense Lawyer Near Clarke County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients with cases in Clarke County courts. We are accessible for consultations and court appearances. Serving communities in and around Berryville and Boyce.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hit and Run Charges in Clarke County
Is leaving the scene of an accident a felony in Virginia?
It depends. If the accident resulted only in property damage, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If it resulted in injury or death, it is charged as a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 46.2-894. The specific facts of your case determine the severity of the charge.
What should I do if I am charged with a hit and run in Clarke County?
Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney. Contact a leaving the scene defense lawyer Clarke County immediately. Your lawyer will request discovery, review the evidence against you, and begin building a defense for your hearing at the Clarke County General District Court.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run in Virginia?
Yes. A conviction for leaving the scene of an accident in Virginia carries a mandatory driver’s license suspension. For property damage cases, suspension is up to 6 months. For cases involving injury or death, the DMV will revoke your license for one year.
What defenses are available for a fleeing accident scene charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity, or an emergency that necessitated leaving the scene to get help. A skilled fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Clarke County can evaluate the evidence to identify the strongest defense strategy for your situation.
Will my case be in General District or Circuit Court?
All hit and run cases begin in the Clarke County General District Court for a bench trial. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, you can appeal for a new trial in the Clarke County Circuit Court. Felony charges may be certified to the Circuit Court.
For more information on Virginia traffic laws, you can review the official Va. Code § 46.2-894 or visit the Virginia Courts website.
If you are facing related charges, explore our pages for a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Clarke County or a DUI/DWI Lawyer in Clarke County. For a broader view of our traffic defense practice, visit our Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.