Leaving the Scene Lawyer Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A leaving the scene charge in Kent County is a serious traffic offense under Maryland law, often classified as a hit and run. If you are accused of fleeing an accident scene, you face potential jail time, fines, and license suspension. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges at the District Court of MD for Kent County.
Understanding Maryland’s Leaving the Scene Statute
In Maryland, the law requires drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop and provide their information. This duty is codified in Md. Code, Transportation Art. § 20-102. Violating this law by fleeing the accident scene can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity of the accident. The penalties escalate significantly if the incident involved bodily injury or death.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Kent County | Maryland General Assembly
External Legal Resources
For the official state code, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website. For local court procedures, visit the District Court of MD for Kent County website.
Local Court Process for a Fleeing Accident Scene Charge in Kent County
Leaving the scene cases in Kent County are heard at the District Court located at 103 N. Cross Street, Chestertown. The court follows Maryland’s point system, where a conviction can add points to your driving record. A key procedural fact is that Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) may be available, which can avoid a conviction and point assessment—a critical defense goal for a leaving the scene charge.
- Receive a citation or summons for leaving the scene of an accident.
- Arraignment at District Court of MD for Kent County to enter a plea.
- Pre-trial negotiations with the State’s Attorney’s Office.
- Motion hearings to challenge evidence or procedural errors.
- Trial before a judge (bench trial) or, if demanded, a jury trial in Kent County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or, if eligible, entry into a PBJ program.
Potential Penalties for Leaving the Scene in Kent County
In Kent County, a leaving the scene conviction carries severe penalties including jail time, substantial fines, and driver’s license points that can lead to suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | 8 points (triggers MVA hearing) | Civil liability for damages |
| Leaving Scene – Bodily Injury | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $3,000 | 12 points (revocation) | Possible felony enhancement |
| Leaving Scene – Death | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | License revocation | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Kent County Traffic Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in traffic defense. Our approach is grounded in a detailed understanding of Maryland traffic laws and local Kent County court procedures.
Case Results in Traffic Defense
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients facing serious traffic charges. While every case is unique, our strategic approach focuses on challenging the evidence and negotiating for reductions or alternative dispositions like PBJ. For instance, Mr. Sris, our founding attorney, brings decades of litigation experience and a former prosecutor’s perspective to case strategy.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Leaving the Scene Defense Near Kent County, MD
Our Maryland office serves clients in Kent County. We are accessible to individuals in Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton. If you need a hit and run defense lawyer Kent County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Fleeing Accident Scene Charges
Is leaving the scene of an accident a felony in Maryland?
It depends. Leaving the scene is typically a misdemeanor for property damage or injury. However, it can be charged as a felony if the accident resulted in a death, skilled to much more severe penalties including years in prison.
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Kent County?
First, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Kent County immediately. Your lawyer can review the citation, investigate the circumstances, and represent you at the District Court of MD for Kent County to protect your rights and driving privileges.
Can I lose my license for leaving the scene?
Yes. A conviction adds 8-12 points to your Maryland driving record. Accumulating 8 points triggers an MVA suspension hearing, and 12 points results in license revocation. This makes consulting a leaving the scene lawyer Kent County critical to avoid a conviction.
What defenses are available for a leaving the scene charge?
Potential defenses include lack of knowledge of the accident, mistaken identity, or an emergency that necessitated leaving. A skilled hit and run defense lawyer Kent County can examine police reports, witness statements, and accident details to identify the strongest defense strategy for your case.
How many points is a leaving the scene conviction in Maryland?
A conviction for leaving the scene involving property damage adds 8 points to your license. If the accident caused bodily injury, it adds 12 points. These points remain on your record for two years and can lead to immediate suspension.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Maryland Traffic Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Montgomery County. If you are facing other charges, explore our Kent County Criminal Defense services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your leaving the scene charge.