Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Charles County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run accident in Charles County is a serious traffic offense under Maryland law, often charged as leaving the scene of an accident. A conviction can mean fines, license suspension, and even jail time. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Charles County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Hit and Run Law
In Maryland, the law requires drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop at the scene. You must provide your name, address, vehicle registration number, and driver’s license to the other involved parties and police. If the property owner is not present, you must leave a note with this information in a conspicuous place and report the accident to police within 48 hours. The specific statute governing this is Md. Code, Transportation § 20-102 (Duty to stop in event of accident). Violating this duty is commonly known as “leaving the scene of an accident.” The severity of the charge depends on whether the accident caused property damage, injury, or death.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s traffic laws, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. For information on court procedures in Charles County, visit the District Court for Charles County website.
Charles County Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
Hit and run cases in Charles County are typically heard in the District Court at 200 Charles Street in La Plata. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction treat these charges seriously due to public safety concerns. An experienced hit and run accident lawyer Charles County can handle this process. The local procedural fact is that these cases move quickly; a failure to appear for a court date can result in an immediate bench warrant for your arrest.
- You receive a citation or summons in the mail with a court date.
- Consult with a hit and run accident charge lawyer Charles County immediately to review the evidence and police report.
- Your attorney may file pre-trial motions or negotiate with the State’s Attorney’s Office before your court date.
- Attend all scheduled court hearings at the District Court in La Plata. Your attorney will represent you before the judge.
- If a plea agreement is not reached, your case may proceed to a trial before a judge.
- If convicted, your attorney can argue for minimal penalties at sentencing or explore appeal options.
Potential Penalties for Leaving the Scene in Maryland
In Charles County, a hit and run conviction carries penalties ranging from points and fines to imprisonment, depending on the accident’s severity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | 8 points, possible suspension | Civil liability for damages |
| Leaving Scene – Bodily Injury | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $3,000 | 12 points, likely revocation | Increased insurance rates |
| Leaving Scene – Death | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | Revocation | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Charles County Traffic Court
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to client defense. While specific Charles County hit and run results are part of our broader caseload, firm-wide we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Case Results for Traffic Offenses
Our attorneys have achieved positive results in challenging traffic and related cases. For example, in Maryland sex crimes cases, which often involve complex evidence and severe penalties, we have secured outcomes like deferred sentences with probation and case dismissals (nolle prosequi).
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
While these are from different practice areas, they demonstrate our firm’s capability in managing serious charges within the Maryland court system.
Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Near Charles County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients in Charles County and surrounding areas. We are familiar with the local courts and procedures. We serve communities including La Plata, Waldorf, Indian Head, White Plains, Bryans Road, and Hughesville.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Charles County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run accident lawyer Charles County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, like photos or witness information, and provide it to your lawyer. Missing your court date at the District Court in La Plata will make your situation much worse.
Can I go to jail for leaving the scene of an accident with only property damage?
Yes. Under Md. Code, Transportation § 20-102, leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and an 8-point license penalty. A hit and run accident charge lawyer Charles County can work to avoid jail time.
What are the defenses to a hit and run charge?
It depends. Common defenses include lack of knowledge an accident occurred, necessity (e.g., leaving to get emergency help), mistaken identity, or that you fulfilled your duty by leaving a note and reporting the accident. An attorney will analyze the specific facts of your case to build the strongest defense.
Will my insurance cover the damages if I left the scene?
Probably not. Most auto insurance policies have clauses that deny coverage for intentional or criminal acts. A conviction for leaving the scene could allow your insurer to deny the claim, leaving you personally responsible for all property damage and injury costs.
How can a lawyer help with a leaving the scene of an accident charge?
A lawyer can challenge the evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge (like a non-criminal traffic violation), argue for minimal penalties, and protect your driving privileges. Early intervention by a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Charles County is often the key to a better outcome.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Maryland Personal Injury Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. If you have other legal needs in Charles County, consider our services for criminal defense or DUI/DWI charges.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal guidance regarding your hit and run accident charge.