San Fernando Valley Hit & Run Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Attorney in Van Nuys

If you were in a traffic accident that you believed was not your fault and left the scene, you may be surprised to find that you are being charged with a hit and run charge. Anyone involved in a traffic accident has the responsibility to identify themselves to the other party, especially if there were injuries, and regardless of who was at fault. If you find you are now in that position, the first thing you need to do it retain the services of a qualified San Fernando criminal defense attorney to protect your rights. If you attempt to handle this yourself, you may find the charges and situation can quickly become much more serious than they already are.

At the Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Vallens, our firm has represented numerous clients throughout the San Fernando Valley and Van Nuys for hit and run accidents and is well versed on the defensive strategies to use to defend you. Through careful negotiation with the prosecution, our firm may be able to resolve your charges in a manner that is workable for all parties.

We are often effective in getting hit and run charges dismissed outright. This is not a marketing ploy. It is the truth. Under Penal Code Sections 1377 and 1378, when the victim of a crime has been fully compensated for their loss, the court can dismiss the charges and discharge the defendant without any conviction or punishment.

Penalties for Hit & Run

California hit and run laws are very strict and a conviction can result in fines of up to $10,000 and jail time. If the hit and run results in a serious injury or death of another, the person could be subject to a state prison sentence, additional fines and restitution to the injured or deceased party. The charge can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the person’s past record as well as the severity of the accident.

Recently our office had a client charged with felony hit and run causing great bodily injury. The client was very pleased when the prosecutor offered him a misdemeanor hit and run causing injury. Then I told him that would likely cause his driving privilege to be suspended. He didn’t think it was such a good deal until we talked the District Attorney into a non-injury misdemeanor hit and run. My client kept his license and went back to his normal life.

When facing hit and run charges, you should contact the Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Vallens for effective and dedicated legal representation. Our firm has helped numerous clients throughout the San Fernando Valley and Van Nuys and surrounding courts in dealing with all types of criminal charges. With our experience and attention to personal detail, our firm will work hard on your behalf and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.

Contact our Van Nuys criminal lawyer at The Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Vallens.