Hit and Run Lawyer New Jersey — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in New Jersey is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, requiring drivers to stop and provide information after an accident. Leaving the scene can lead to criminal charges, license suspension, and significant fines. If you are facing these charges, you need a dedicated hit and run lawyer New Jersey from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Hit and Run Law
New Jersey law strictly requires drivers involved in an accident to stop immediately at the scene, provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number to the other party, and render reasonable assistance to any injured persons. This duty applies regardless of who is at fault or the severity of the accident. The relevant statute is N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, which classifies leaving the scene as a traffic offense that can escalate to a criminal charge depending on the circumstances, such as whether there was property damage, injury, or death.
Last verified: April 2026 | Verify with lead attorney | New Jersey Legislature
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in cases involving complex evidence and financial implications.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-129 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court procedures and forms, visit the New Jersey Courts website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Case
In New Jersey, hit and run cases are typically heard in the municipal court of the town where the incident occurred. The process is adversarial, with a prosecutor presenting the state’s case. An experienced hit and run lawyer near me New Jersey from our firm understands that prosecutors often seek the maximum penalties for these charges, viewing them as a serious breach of public safety. Early intervention is critical to challenge the state’s evidence and negotiate for a reduced charge.
- Initial Court Date: You will receive a summons with a court date. Your attorney can often appear on your behalf for this first appearance.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your lawyer will obtain all evidence from the prosecution, including police reports, witness statements, and any video footage, to identify weaknesses in the case.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor to seek a dismissal or reduction of charges, such as to a lesser careless driving offense.
- Trial or Resolution: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your lawyer will prepare for and represent you at a bench trial before the municipal judge.
Potential Penalties for a New Jersey Hit and Run
In New Jersey, a hit and run conviction carries penalties that include fines, license suspension, and possible jail time, with severity increasing if the accident caused injury or death.
| Scenario | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Damage Only | Traffic Offense | Up to 30 days | $200 – $400 | 6-month suspension | Community service, surcharges |
| Bodily Injury | 3rd/4th Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | 1-year suspension | Felony record, restitution |
| Serious Bodily Injury or Death | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Revocation | Extended parole, permanent record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Hit and Run Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive representation. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally amended Virginia Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a deep understanding of legislative processes that can inform defense strategy. We focus on building a strong defense by scrutinizing the evidence against you.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results in this locality are not listed, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We apply this extensive experience to every hit and run defense, working to secure dismissals, charge reductions, and minimized penalties.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Representation for New Jersey Drivers
Our New Jersey location serves clients across all 21 counties. We represent drivers in municipal courts throughout the state. If you need an affordable hit and run lawyer New Jersey, our firm provides accessible legal support. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (Hit and Run in NJ)
Is a hit and run a felony in New Jersey?
It depends. A hit and run involving only property damage is a traffic offense. If the accident causes bodily injury, it becomes a third or fourth-degree crime. If it causes serious bodily injury or death, it is a second-degree crime, which is a felony.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
Yes. A conviction for leaving the scene of an accident with property damage mandates a 6-month license suspension. If the accident caused injury, the suspension increases to one year. For incidents involving death or serious injury, your license can be revoked.
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run?
Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer New Jersey immediately. Your lawyer will obtain the evidence, advise you on your rights, and begin building a defense strategy, which may involve challenging witness ID, proving you were unaware of the accident, or negotiating a plea.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run?
Yes. Jail time is possible. For property damage, you face up to 30 days. For injury, it’s up to 18 months. For serious injury or death, the sentence ranges from 5 to 10 years in state prison. An experienced attorney fights to avoid incarceration.
How can a lawyer help my hit and run case?
A lawyer examines police reports for errors, interviews witnesses, reviews any video evidence, and challenges the prosecution’s ability to prove you were the driver or that you knowingly left the scene. They negotiate for reduced charges and represent you at trial if necessary.
For more information, see our New Jersey Civil Litigation Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Bergen County and with related matters such as New Jersey traffic defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
A hit and run case is one part of a wider personal injury practice, and our page on traffic lawyer New Jersey covers how these claims are handled.