Hit and Run Lawyer St Marys County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in St. Mary’s County is a serious offense under Maryland law, potentially classified as a misdemeanor or felony with penalties including jail, fines, and license suspension. If you are facing a hit and run accident charge lawyer St. Mary’s County, immediate legal guidance is critical. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Hit and Run Charges in Maryland
Maryland law requires drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop, provide their information, and render reasonable aid. Failing to do so constitutes the crime of “leaving the scene of an accident,” commonly called a hit and run. The severity of the charge depends on the accident’s outcome.
Last verified: April 2026 | St. Mary’s County District Court | Maryland General Assembly.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Md. Code, Transportation § 20-102 (Duty to stop at scene of accident). For local court procedures, visit the Maryland District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
In St. Mary’s County, a hit and run case typically begins in District Court. Prosecutors take these charges seriously due to public safety concerns. An experienced leaving the scene of an accident lawyer St. Mary’s County can challenge the evidence that you knowingly left the scene or that the accident met the statutory threshold for reporting.
- Receive the Citation or Summons: You may be mailed a citation or summons to appear in St. Mary’s County District Court.
- Arraignment: At your first court date, you will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions, review the state’s evidence (like police reports and witness statements), and investigate the scene.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose penalties based on the charge’s severity and your record.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run 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 | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene of Property Damage Accident | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | 8 points; Possible suspension | Civil liability for damages |
| Leaving Scene of Accident Causing Bodily Injury | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $3,000 | 12 points; Mandatory revocation | Possible civil lawsuit |
| Leaving Scene of Accident Causing Death | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory revocation | Felony criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in St. Mary’s County
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the local St. Mary’s County court procedures and use that knowledge to build effective defenses for clients facing hit and run charges.
Case Results for Traffic Offenses
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results in traffic cases. For example, we have successfully argued for reductions of hit and run charges to lesser non-criminal traffic offenses, avoiding jail time and license suspension for our clients. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with decades of experience, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for St. Mary’s County Residents
Our team is ready to defend you in St. Mary’s County. We offer 24/7 phone consultations. Contact us to schedule an appointment at our Maryland location.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
We serve clients throughout St. Mary’s County, including in communities near Lexington Park, California, and Leonardtown. As a dedicated hit and run lawyer St Marys County, we are familiar with the local courts and procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 lawyer St Marys County immediately. Your lawyer will obtain the police report, review the evidence against you, and begin building a defense, such as arguing you were unaware of the accident.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run if no one was hurt?
Yes. Under Md. Code § 20-102, leaving the scene of an accident causing only property damage is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail. The prosecution must prove you knew you were in an accident and willfully failed to stop.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run conviction?
It is very likely. The MVA will assess 8 points for a property damage hit and run and 12 points for an injury hit and run, either of which can trigger a suspension. A conviction for leaving the scene of a fatal accident carries a mandatory license revocation.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge of the accident, mistaken identity, emergency circumstances that compelled you to leave, or returning to the scene before police arrived. A leaving the scene of an accident lawyer St. Mary’s County can evaluate which defense applies to your case.
Is a hit and run a felony in Maryland?
It depends. A hit and run is a felony only if the accident resulted in a death. Accidents causing injury or property damage are misdemeanors, though still serious. The specific facts of your case determine the charge level and potential penalties.
Related Content: If you are facing other serious traffic charges, you may need a reckless driving lawyer in St. Mary’s County. For other criminal matters, see our page for a criminal defense lawyer in St. Mary’s County. For a broader view of our traffic defense practice, visit our Maryland traffic lawyer hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.