Hit and Run Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Henrico County is a serious traffic offense under Va. Code § 46.2-894, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending leaving the scene of an accident charges in Henrico County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Hit and Run Law
Virginia law requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop at the scene or as close as possible without obstructing traffic. You must provide your name, address, driver’s license, and vehicle registration number to the other driver, occupant, or property owner. If no one is present to receive the information, you must report the accident to law enforcement within 24 hours. The statute, Va. Code § 46.2-894, defines the duties of drivers involved in accidents. Violating this law is known as “leaving the scene of an accident” and is prosecuted aggressively.
Penalties for a Hit and Run in Henrico County
In Henrico County, a hit and run conviction carries severe penalties that escalate based on the accident’s severity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit & Run (Property Damage) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | DMV points; possible suspension | Civil liability for damages |
| Hit & Run (Injury) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent criminal record |
| Hit & Run (Death) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory revocation | Vehicular manslaughter charges possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
Your hit and run case in Henrico County will begin at the Henrico County General District Court located at 4301 East Parham Road. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. A common local procedural fact is that prosecutors often seek the maximum penalty to deter this dangerous behavior, making early intervention by a skilled hit and run lawyer Henrico County critical.
- Receive a Summons or Warrant: You will be served with a summons to appear in court, or if arrested, a magistrate will set a bond hearing.
- Arraignment: At your first court date, you will be formally advised of the charge and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the Commonwealth’s case.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted in General District Court, you can appeal for a new trial in Henrico County Circuit Court before a jury.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in traffic and criminal matters across Virginia. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your hit and run accident charge.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Our team includes seasoned attorneys like Mr. Sris, whose background as a former prosecutor and founder provides strategic oversight on complex cases. We work collaboratively to examine every angle of your defense.
Case Results in Henrico County
Our commitment to vigorous defense is reflected in our local track record. In Henrico County, we have documented results including dismissals and favorable reductions in traffic and criminal matters. For example, we have successfully defended clients facing charges like reckless driving in excess of 80 mph and passing a school bus, achieving dismissals in Henrico General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Henrico County Hit and Run Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, and Highland Springs. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295.
Hit and run lawyer near Henrico County General District Court.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a hit and run a felony in Virginia?
It depends. A hit and run involving only property damage is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the accident results in injury or death, the charge becomes a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 46.2-894, carrying 1-10 years in prison.
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Henrico County?
Do not speak to police or insurance investigators without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer Henrico County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, such as photos of your vehicle, and write down everything you remember about the incident for your lawyer.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run in Virginia?
Yes. The court has discretion to suspend your driver’s license for a misdemeanor hit and run. A conviction for a felony hit and run involving injury or death mandates a mandatory license revocation by the DMV.
What are common defenses to a hit and run accident charge?
Defenses may include lack of knowledge you were in an accident, necessity to stop at a safe location, or mistaken identity. A leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Henrico County can investigate whether the prosecution can prove you knowingly failed to stop and fulfill your legal duties.
How long does a hit and run case take in Henrico County?
A misdemeanor case in Henrico County General District Court typically takes 4-8 weeks from arraignment to trial. If appealed to Circuit Court, it can take 3-9 months. An experienced hit and run lawyer Henrico County can often work to resolve the case efficiently.
For more information on court procedures, visit the Henrico County General District Court website.
Internal Resources: Learn more about Virginia criminal defense. For related charges, see our pages on Henrico County DUI defense and Henrico County reckless driving. For defense in nearby areas, consider our Chesterfield County criminal lawyer.