Leaving After Colliding Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ — What Are Your Options?
A leaving after colliding charge in Burlington County, NJ, is a serious traffic offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129 that can result in license suspension, fines, and potential jail time. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these charges. If you need a leaving after colliding lawyer near me Burlington County, contact us for a 24/7 consultation to discuss your case and potential defenses.
Understanding Leaving After Colliding Charges in New Jersey
In New Jersey, the offense commonly known as “hit and run” is formally defined as “leaving the scene of an accident” under statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-129. The law imposes a duty on any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop their vehicle at the scene, provide their information, and render reasonable assistance. Failing to do so constitutes leaving after colliding. The severity of the charge escalates based on the accident’s consequences: property damage only, personal injury, or death.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-129 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures and forms, visit the Burlington Vicinage website.
Local Court Process for a Leaving After Colliding Charge
In Burlington County, leaving after colliding cases are heard in the Municipal Court where the violation occurred. The process typically begins with a summons. An affordable leaving after colliding lawyer Burlington County can be crucial, as the court may impose significant penalties at the first appearance if the facts are not properly contested.
- Receive Summons & Complaint: You will receive a ticket and a court date specifying the charges under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129.
- First Appearance (Arraignment): You will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. A not-guilty plea sets the case for trial.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your attorney may negotiate with the municipal prosecutor to seek a reduction in charges or penalties, such as arguing for a careless driving plea.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, a bench trial before a municipal judge will be held where the state must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will impose penalties, which can include fines, jail time, and license suspension.
- Appeal: A guilty verdict can be appealed to the Burlington County Superior Court, Law Division, within 20 days.
Potential Penalties for Leaving After Colliding in NJ
In Burlington County, leaving after colliding carries penalties ranging from fines and points to lengthy license revocation and jail, depending on whether the accident caused property damage, injury, or death.
| Offense Severity | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Damage Only | Traffic Offense | Up to 30 days | $200 – $400 | 6-month suspension | Motor vehicle points; possible civil liability |
| Personal Injury | Traffic Offense | Up to 180 days | $2,500 – $5,000 | 1-year suspension | Points; civil lawsuits for damages |
| Death | Indictable Crime (3rd Degree) | 3-5 years state prison | Up to $15,000 | Revocation (1+ year) | Felony record; significant civil liability |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we commit fully to defending clients in Burlington County and across New Jersey.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local results for leaving after colliding in Burlington County are not enumerated, our firm’s extensive history includes successfully defending clients against serious traffic violations by challenging evidence, negotiating charge reductions, and advocating at trial. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions in cases where the state could not prove the driver’s knowledge of the accident, a key element of the charge.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Service for Burlington County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-3900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Burlington County courts. We are accessible via major routes like the NJ Turnpike and I-295. If you are searching for a leaving after colliding lawyer near me Burlington County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings by appointment only. We serve communities throughout the county including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving after colliding in Burlington County?
No. Do not ignore the summons. Contact a lawyer immediately. An attorney can review the police report, determine if the state can prove you knowingly left the scene, and begin building a defense before your first court date.
Can I go to jail for a hit-and-run with only property damage?
Yes. Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage is a disorderly persons offense punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine, and a 6-month license suspension.
How can an affordable leaving after colliding lawyer Burlington County help me?
It depends on the facts. A lawyer can challenge the evidence that you were the driver or knew an accident occurred. They can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a lesser offense like careless driving, which carries fewer points and no mandatory license suspension, often saving you money in the long run.
What if I didn’t know I hit something?
This is a common defense. The state must prove you knew an accident occurred. An attorney can present evidence (e.g., minor damage, weather conditions, lack of noise) to create reasonable doubt about your knowledge, which can lead to a dismissal.
Will my insurance go up?
Almost certainly. A leaving after colliding conviction is a major violation that insurers heavily penalize. It will likely lead to significantly higher premiums or even policy non-renewal, separate from any court-imposed fines.
Can I appeal a guilty verdict?
Yes. You have 20 days from a guilty verdict in Municipal Court to file an appeal for a new trial in the Burlington County Superior Court, Law Division. This is a formal legal process where having an attorney is essential.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, explore our related pages: Burlington County DUI Lawyer or Burlington County Traffic Lawyer. For a broader view, see our New Jersey Traffic Lawyer hub page.
Page Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current advice regarding your leaving after colliding case in Burlington County.