Are you facing Hit and Run charges in Los Angeles?

Hit and Run can be charged as a misdemeanor under California Vehicle Code Section 20002, or as a felony under California Vehicle Code Section 20001. The main difference between misdemeanor hit and run and felony hit and run is whether someone is injured.

If you are involved in an accident and do not stop your vehicle to exchange information with the other party you may be found guilty of hit and run. It is important to note that this statute applies even if the accident is not your fault.

If you are facing charges for a hit and run in California, contact experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Miles Booth at 424 272 1134.

How does the prosecution prove that I am guilty of Hit and Run?

To be found guilty of hit and run the prosecutor must prove that, while driving, you;

Left the scene of an accident;

Knew, or reasonably should have known that you were involved in an accident;

Left the scene without leaving any identifying information; and

The accident resulted in another person’s property being damaged

To be found guily of Felony hit and run under California Vehicle Code Section 20001, the prosecutor must also prove that the collision caused injury or death to another person.

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer Miles Booth

How can I defend myself against Hit and Run Charges?

The most common defenses to a hit and run charge are that;

There was no property damage

You were not the driver of the vehicle

If either one of these can be proven, it will result in the dismissal of your case, or a not guilty verdict at trial. If you are charged with felony hit and run and can show that the collision did not result in injury or death to another person, your charges will be reduced to a misdemeanor.

What are the Penalties for Hit and Run?

Misdemeanor Hit and Run

Misdemeanor hit and run under California Vehicle Code Section 20002, is punishable by;

3 years of summary probation,

up to 6 months in county jail, and/or

a maximum fine of $1,000

A first time offense will typically result in 3 years summary probation in lieu of jail time. Additionally, a skilled criminal defense attorney may be able to resolve your case with payment of damages in exchange for a dismissal.

Felony Hit and Run

Felony hit and run under California Vehicle Code Section 20001, is punishable by;

5 years reporting probation,

up to 4 years in state prison, and/or

a maximum fine of $10,000

California Vehicle Code Section 20001 is a “wobbler”, meaning that the prosecution has the discretion to charge it as a misdemeanor or a felony. This decision will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of the injuries to the other party, and your criminal history. A skilled criminal defense attorney may be able to get your felony charges reduced to a misdemeanor, or get you a probationary sentence and keep you out of prison.

Contact Los Angeles hit and run attorney miles booth

Facing hit and run charges can be overwhelming. Your housing, future job prospects, and most importantly, immediate freedom are in jeopardy. It is foolish to fight these cases alone. It is important to have a skilled Los Angeles criminal defense attorney by your side.

Miles Booth will work tirelessly to defend you, and get the best possible outcome in your case. He has handled thousands of cases throughout Los Angeles County and understands the steps necessary to best defend you.

To learn more about your options going forward, contact Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer, Miles Booth, for a free consultation at 424 272 1134.