Leaving the Scene Lawyer Burlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Leaving the scene of an accident in Burlington County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, potentially resulting in criminal charges, license suspension, and jail time. A conviction can have severe, long-term consequences. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of fleeing an accident scene.
New Jersey Law on Leaving the Scene of an Accident
New Jersey law requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop at the scene, provide their information, and render reasonable assistance. The specific statute governing this offense is N.J.S.A. 39:4-129. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the accident. Leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage is typically a traffic offense. However, leaving the scene where there is bodily injury elevates the charge to a disorderly persons offense, and if the accident results in death, it becomes a crime of the third degree.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New Jersey Statutes Annotated (N.J.S.A.) § 39:4-129. Court procedures and local rules for Burlington County can be found on the New Jersey Courts website for the Burlington Vicinage.
Defending a Fleeing Accident Scene Charge in Burlington County
Mounting a defense against a fleeing accident scene charge requires immediate action and a detailed understanding of the allegations. In the Burlington Vicinage, prosecutors must prove you knowingly left the scene. A common defense is lack of knowledge—you were unaware an accident occurred. Other defenses may involve challenging the identification of your vehicle or proving you stopped as soon as practicable. An experienced hit and run defense lawyer Burlington County can investigate the scene, review police reports, and interview witnesses to build your case.
- Contact an Attorney Immediately: Do not discuss the incident with anyone before speaking to a lawyer. Call our 24/7 line at (888) 437-7747.
- Gather Evidence: Preserve any photos, witness contact information, or vehicle repair records you may have.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain the police report, complaint, and any available video evidence to analyze the strength of the prosecution’s case.
- Develop a Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will determine the best defense approach, which may involve negotiating with the prosecutor or preparing for trial.
- Court Representation: Your attorney will represent you at all court appearances in Mount Holly, advocating for the best possible outcome.
Potential Penalties for Leaving the Scene in NJ
In Burlington County, leaving the scene charges carry a range of penalties from fines and license suspension to potential incarceration, depending on whether injury or death occurred.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Property Damage Only | Traffic Offense | None | $200 – $400 | 6-month suspension | Court costs, surcharges |
| Bodily Injury | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | 1-year suspension | Criminal record, possible civil liability |
| Death | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | 1-year suspension | 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 every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of a fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Burlington County case and provide focused, assertive representation. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients across multiple jurisdictions, including New Jersey.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local results are not disclosed, our firm’s extensive history demonstrates our capability in handling serious traffic and criminal matters. We approach each leaving the scene case with a detailed strategy aimed at protecting our client’s future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Leaving the Scene Lawyer Serving Burlington County, NJ
Our New Jersey location represents clients throughout Burlington County, including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and Burlington City. We are accessible via major highways like the NJ Turnpike and I-295.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene in Burlington County?
Do not speak to police or insurance investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a leaving the scene lawyer Burlington County. An attorney can protect your rights, advise you on the next steps, and begin building your defense.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run with no injury?
For a hit and run involving only property damage in New Jersey, jail time is not a typical penalty. The primary consequences are fines and a mandatory driver’s license suspension. However, any hit and run charge should be taken seriously due to the lasting impact on your record.
How can a lawyer help with a fleeing the scene charge?
A hit and run defense lawyer Burlington County can challenge the evidence that you knowingly left the scene, negotiate for reduced charges like careless driving, or argue for minimized penalties. They handle all court appearances and legal filings, aiming to avoid a conviction where possible.
Will my insurance cover the damages if I left the scene?
It depends. Most auto insurance policies require you to report accidents promptly. Leaving the scene may give the insurer grounds to deny coverage for the damages, leaving you personally responsible. also, your rates will likely increase significantly if you are convicted.
What is the difference between a traffic ticket and a criminal charge for leaving the scene?
Leaving the scene with only property damage is a traffic offense. If the accident caused injury, it becomes a disorderly persons offense (a criminal misdemeanor), and if it caused death, it is an indictable crime (felony). The latter two result in a permanent criminal record.
Related Legal Services in Burlington County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI defense in Burlington County, traffic violations, and criminal defense. For a full overview of our New Jersey practice, visit our New Jersey traffic lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Camden County and Ocean County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.