Leaving the Scene Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Leaving the scene of an accident in Lexington is a serious criminal charge under Va. Code § 46.2-896, not a simple traffic ticket. A conviction can mean jail time, a permanent criminal record, and a lengthy license suspension. As a leaving the scene defense lawyer Lexington, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Law on Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
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. If the vehicle is unattended, you must leave a written notice with the same information. Failure to comply is a crime under Va. Code § 46.2-894 (duty to stop for injury/death) and § 46.2-896 (duty to stop for property damage). The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this statutory knowledge to build defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 46.2-896 (official Virginia General Assembly site). Court procedures and forms are available from the Lexington General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Hit and Run Charges in Lexington
All misdemeanor leaving the scene cases in Lexington are heard at the Lexington General District Court at 2 South Main Street. The court handles both property damage and injury-related charges. Prosecutors in the 25th Judicial District take these charges seriously due to public safety concerns.
- Receive Your Summons: You will get a court summons with a date to appear at Lexington General District Court.
- Initial Appearance (Arraignment): You will hear the formal charge and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your attorney can discuss the case with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal.
- Bench Trial: If no agreement is reached, a judge will hear evidence and decide guilt or innocence.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You have 10 days to appeal for a new trial in Rockbridge County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run Conviction
In Lexington, leaving the scene of an accident carries severe penalties that escalate based on whether the crash caused property damage, injury, or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage (Va. Code § 46.2-896) | 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 costs |
| Leaving Scene – Injury/Death (Va. Code § 46.2-894) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years (or up to 12 months if misdemeanor) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation for 1 year | Felony record; potential civil liability |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to each case. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Virginia traffic law and local court procedures. We have a track record of documented results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
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
Documented Case Experience
Our firm has extensive experience defending against hit and run charges. For example, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for clients charged with “Fail Stop Scene of Accident” in Fairfax County General District Court. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Lexington Traffic Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients with cases at the Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. If you need a hit and run defense lawyer Lexington near Virginia Military Institute or Washington and Lee University, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve the Lexington community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is leaving the scene of an accident a felony in Lexington, VA?
It depends. Leaving the scene of an accident that caused only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if the accident resulted in injury or death, the charge becomes a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 46.2-894, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison.
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Lexington?
First, do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a leaving the scene defense lawyer Lexington immediately. Gather any evidence you have, such as photos of your vehicle, witness information, or proof you were unaware of the accident. Your attorney will review this for your defense at Lexington General District Court.
Can I avoid a criminal record for a hit and run charge?
Yes, it is possible. An experienced fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Lexington may negotiate with the prosecutor to amend the charge to a non-criminal traffic infraction or seek a dismissal if the evidence is weak. Outcomes depend on the case facts, your driving record, and the strength of the defense.
How long will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
For a misdemeanor property damage conviction, the court can suspend your license for up to six months. For a felony injury-related conviction, Virginia law mandates a one-year license revocation. A skilled attorney can argue against suspension or seek a restricted license for necessary driving.
What are common defenses to a leaving the scene charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity of the driver, or an emergency that compelled you to leave. A hit and run defense lawyer Lexington can investigate to determine if the prosecution can prove all legal elements beyond a reasonable doubt.
For more information, see our Virginia traffic defense hub page. We also assist clients in Henrico County and with criminal defense in Lexington.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.