New Jersey Hit And Run Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in New Jersey is a serious traffic offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, carrying penalties from fines and license suspension to jail time. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for drivers statewide. If you are accused of leaving the scene, a New Jersey hit and run lawyer from our firm can protect your rights and challenge the prosecution’s case.
New Jersey Hit and Run Law
New Jersey law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop immediately and provide their information. This duty is outlined in N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, known as the “Leaving the Scene of an Accident” statute. The law applies to accidents resulting in property damage, injury, or death. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the accident.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Jersey Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, founded the firm in 1997. This financial and technical insight is valuable in hit and run cases, which often involve evidence like traffic camera footage and vehicle damage assessments.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-129 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and locations, visit the New Jersey Courts website.
Local Court Process for Hit and Run Charges
Hit and run cases in New Jersey are typically heard in the municipal court where the incident occurred. For more serious cases involving injury or death, the matter may be elevated to the Superior Court. Prosecutors in these courts often seek strict penalties. In many municipal courts, prosecutors are willing to negotiate a reduction if a strong defense challenges the evidence of intent or identity.
- You receive a summons or complaint in the mail detailing the hit and run charge.
- Your first court date is an arraignment, where you enter a plea of not guilty.
- Your attorney will request discovery from the prosecutor to review all evidence.
- Pre-trial negotiations may occur to seek a reduction to a lesser offense.
- If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- The judge will issue a verdict and, if guilty, impose sentence.
Potential Penalties for Leaving the Scene
In New Jersey, a hit and run conviction carries a mandatory driver’s license suspension, significant fines, and possible jail time, with severity increasing if the accident caused injury or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Property Damage) | Traffic Offense | Up to 30 days jail | $200 – $400 | 6-month suspension | Community service, court costs |
| Hit & Run (Bodily Injury) | Indictable Crime (4th Degree) | Up to 18 months prison | Up to $10,000 | 1-year suspension | Civil liability, permanent record |
| Hit & Run (Serious Bodily Injury/Death) | Indictable Crime (3rd Degree) | 3-5 years prison | Up to $15,000 | 1-year suspension | Civil liability, permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Hit and Run Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled firm-wide 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is “Advocacy Without Borders,” providing dedicated representation across New Jersey. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, keeps his personal caseload small to ensure deep involvement in complex cases like felony hit and run defense.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has documented case results across New Jersey. We have achieved outcomes including dismissals, reductions to non-criminal traffic offenses, and minimized penalties for clients facing hit and run charges. Our hit and run defense strategies are case-specific to the specific facts of each case and the local court procedures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local New Jersey Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
SRIS New Jersey Location — 51 JFK Parkway, 1st Floor West
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: 856-291-6150
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves all 21 counties. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. If you need a hit and run attorney near New Jersey, our team is accessible statewide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a traffic lawyer in New Jersey, NJ?
Yes. Traffic cases in New Jersey require experienced legal representation. SRIS has documented case results across NJ with over 93% favorable outcomes. Consultation by appointment — (888) 437-7747.
How much does a traffic lawyer cost in New Jersey, NJ?
Attorney fees for traffic cases in New Jersey, NJ vary based on complexity. SRIS offers consultation by appointment to discuss your case and fee structure. Payment plans available. Call (888) 437-7747.
What should I look for in a traffic lawyer in New Jersey, NJ?
Look for documented case results, courtroom experience in New Jersey courts, and a track record in traffic matters. SRIS has firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results and former prosecutors on staff. Consultation by appointment — (888) 437-7747.
Is leaving the scene of an accident a felony in New Jersey?
It depends. If the accident only caused property damage, it is a traffic offense. If it caused bodily injury or death, it is an indictable crime (felony). A leaving the scene lawyer can analyze the specifics of your case.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge an accident occurred, mistaken identity, or an emergency that required leaving the scene. An experienced hit and run attorney can evaluate the evidence to build the strongest accident flight defense for your situation.
Disclaimer: Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.