Hit and Run Accident Lawyer St Marys County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run accident in St. Mary’s County is a serious traffic offense under Maryland law, carrying potential jail time, fines, and license suspension. If you are facing a leaving the scene of an accident charge, you need a strategic defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced legal representation for hit and run accident charges in St.
Maryland Hit and Run Law
Maryland law requires drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop at the scene, provide their information, and render reasonable aid. Leaving the scene, or a “hit and run,” is a criminal offense. The specific charges and penalties depend on the severity of the accident.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to building strong defenses for clients accused of traffic violations, including hit and run.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s traffic laws regarding duties at an accident scene, refer to the Maryland Code, Transportation Article § 20-102 et seq.. Court procedures and filing information for St. Mary’s County can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the District Court in Leonardtown.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
In St. Mary’s County, a hit and run accident charge lawyer St. Mary’s County must handle the District Court at 23110 Leonard Hall Drive in Leonardtown. Prosecutors here take leaving the scene charges seriously, especially if injuries are alleged. An early, strategic intervention is often key to influencing the case direction before formal charges are solidified by the State’s Attorney’s office.
- Receive Citation or Summons: You may be issued a traffic citation or a criminal summons ordering you to appear in the District Court of Maryland for St. Mary’s County.
- Initial Consultation with Attorney: Before your court date, consult with a hit and run accident lawyer St Marys County to review the evidence, police report, and discuss potential defenses.
- Arraignment: At your first court appearance, you will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Your attorney will handle this.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your lawyer will engage with the prosecutor to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges, possibly to a lesser non-criminal traffic offense.
- Trial or Disposition: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare for and represent you at a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for minimal penalties. They can also advise on any appeal rights.
Potential Penalties for Leaving the Scene in Maryland
In St. Mary’s County, a hit and run conviction carries severe penalties that escalate based on whether the accident caused property damage, injury, or death.
| Offense Severity | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Damage Only | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | 8 points on license | Criminal record, increased insurance |
| Bodily Injury or Death | Felony | Up to 5 years (injury) Up to 10 years (death) | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, severe insurance consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Hit and Run Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings a foundation of prosecutorial insight to criminal and traffic defense. With a firm-wide record of over 4,739 documented case results and a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%, our approach is built on thorough case investigation and aggressive advocacy. We understand that a leaving the scene charge can stem from panic or misunderstanding, and we work to present the full context to the court.
Case Results in Traffic and Criminal Defense
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results in traffic and criminal cases. While every case is unique, our strategies have led to dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements. For instance, firm-wide we have secured dismissals in cases involving allegations of fleeing the scene. Mr. Sris, our founding attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, leveraging his decades of experience as a former prosecutor.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Near St. Mary’s County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout St. Mary’s County, including Leonardtown, Lexington Park, California, and Great Mills. We are accessible to those needing a hit and run accident lawyer near the District Court in Leonardtown.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (Hit and Run in St. Mary’s County)
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in St. Mary’s County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run accident charge lawyer St. Mary’s County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, like photos or witness contacts, and provide it to your lawyer to build your defense.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run involving only property damage in Maryland?
Yes. Leaving the scene of an accident with property damage is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and an 8-point license penalty. A skilled lawyer can often negotiate to avoid jail time for a first offense.
What are common defenses to a leaving the scene charge?
It depends. Defenses may include lack of knowledge you were in an accident, stopping at a safe distance to exchange info, or an emergency that forced you to leave. An experienced hit and run accident lawyer St Marys County can evaluate the facts for the best defense strategy.
Will my insurance cover the damages if I left the scene?
Likely not. Most auto insurance policies have clauses denying coverage for intentional or criminal acts, which a hit and run may be considered. You could be personally liable for all damages, making a strong legal defense even more critical.
How long does a hit and run case take in St. Mary’s County District Court?
The timeline varies. A simple property damage case might resolve in a few months with a plea. A case involving injury could take a year or more if it goes to trial. Your attorney can give a more specific estimate after reviewing your case.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides defense for criminal charges in St. Mary’s County, DUI/DWI offenses, and reckless driving tickets. For a broader view of our traffic defense practice, visit our Maryland traffic lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Charles County and Calvert County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.