Hit and Run Lawyer Bergen County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Leaving the scene of an accident in Bergen County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, with penalties escalating based on injury or property damage. A conviction can mean jail, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for hit and run charges in Hackensack and across Bergen County.
New Jersey Hit and Run Law
New Jersey law requires any driver involved in an accident to stop immediately at the scene, provide their information, and render reasonable aid. Failing to do so constitutes a hit and run, or leaving the scene of an accident. The severity of the charge depends on the circumstances of the accident.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-129 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and forms, visit the Bergen Vicinage Superior Court website.
Bergen County Hit and Run Defense Strategy
In the Bergen County Superior Court, prosecutors treat hit and run cases seriously, especially those involving injury. The court’s Early Settlement Panel may be involved in related civil claims, but the criminal case proceeds separately. A key defense often involves challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove you were the driver or that you knowingly left the scene. We analyze police reports, witness statements, and any available video evidence to build your defense.
- Immediate Consultation: Contact our firm as soon as possible after being charged or contacted by police.
- Case Analysis: We review all evidence, including the police report, accident details, and any witness accounts.
- Defense Strategy: We develop a defense, which may include negotiating for reduced charges or preparing for trial.
- Court Representation: We represent you at all hearings in the Bergen County Superior Court.
- Resolution: We work toward a favorable outcome, whether through dismissal, plea agreement, or trial verdict.
Potential Penalties for Hit and Run in New Jersey
In Bergen County, a hit and run conviction carries severe penalties that increase with the severity of the accident, including potential jail time, fines, and license revocation.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Property Damage) | Traffic Offense / Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 30 days jail | $200 – $400 | 6-month suspension | Points on license; civil liability |
| Hit & Run (Bodily Injury) | Indictable Crime (3rd/4th Degree) | 180 days – 5 years prison | Up to $15,000 | 1-year revocation | Felony record; mandatory community service |
| Hit & Run (Serious Bodily Injury/Death) | Indictable Crime (2nd Degree) | 5 – 10 years prison | Up to $150,000 | Permanent revocation possible | Severe felony record; significant civil lawsuits |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With a combined 120+ years of legal experience and a record of over 4,739 case results firm-wide, our team understands the details of New Jersey traffic and criminal courts. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight aggressively for every client.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case counts vary by jurisdiction, our firm-wide commitment is to achieving favorable outcomes. We have successfully defended clients against serious traffic and criminal charges across New Jersey. Our approach involves meticulous case preparation and leveraging our understanding of local court procedures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Bergen County Hit and Run Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County, including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, and surrounding communities. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17.
Hit and run lawyer near me Bergen County: We provide representation for clients at the Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hit and Run in Bergen County
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Bergen County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer Bergen County as early as possible. We can advise you on your rights, help you understand the charges, and begin building your defense before your first court date in Hackensack.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run with only property damage?
Yes. Even a hit and run involving only property damage is a disorderly persons offense in NJ, punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine, and a 6-month license suspension. The court considers factors like the amount of damage and your driving history.
What is the difference between a traffic ticket and a criminal hit and run charge?
Hit and run involving property damage may be charged as a traffic offense/disorderly persons offense. However, if the accident caused injury or death, it becomes an indictable crime (felony), handled in Superior Court with potential state prison time.
Is there an affordable hit and run lawyer Bergen County?
It depends. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers transparent fee structures and, in some cases, payment plans. The cost of defense must be weighed against the severe long-term costs of a conviction, including fines, increased insurance, and a criminal record. We provide a free initial phone consultation to discuss your case.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity, duress, or that you did stop and fulfill your duties but were unable to locate the other party or owner. Each case requires a detailed investigation of the facts.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub page. We also assist clients in nearby counties like Atlantic County and Burlington County. If you have related legal needs, consider our Bergen County DUI lawyers or federal criminal defense attorneys.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your hit and run case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
The same rules apply outside Bergen County, and our page on hit and run charges across New Jersey walks through each stage.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
DWI and traffic charges are heard first in the municipal court for the town where the stop occurred; appeals go to the Law Division of the county Superior Court. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is N.J.S.A. 39:4-50 (driving while intoxicated) within N.J.S.A. Title 39, the motor vehicle and traffic code. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Hit and Run Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Hit and Run Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.