Hit and Run Lawyer Charles County — Defending Leaving the Scene Charges
A hit and run in Charles County is a serious traffic offense under Md. Code, Transportation Art. § 20-102, carrying potential jail time, fines, and license points. If you are charged with leaving the scene of an accident, you need a hit and run lawyer Charles County who understands the District Court of MD for Charles County.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Charles County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, a hit and run, formally known as leaving the scene of an accident, is defined by statute. The law requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in property damage, injury, or death to immediately stop, provide identification, and render reasonable aid. Failing to do so constitutes a crime. The severity of the charge and penalties depend on whether the accident involved only property damage, bodily injury, or death.
Leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Charles County representation is critical because these cases are prosecuted aggressively. A conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, significant fines, driver’s license points, and even incarceration. The firm’s experience in Charles County District Court is essential for handling the local procedures and building an effective defense strategy.
Maryland Hit and Run Laws & Penalties
The specific statute governing hit and run offenses is Md. Code, Transportation Art. § 20-102. All cases for Charles County are heard at the District Court of MD for Charles County located at 200 Charles Street, La Plata, MD 20646.
In Charles County, a hit and run accident charge carries penalties ranging from points and fines to felony charges and imprisonment, depending on the accident’s severity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | 8 points | Criminal record, increased insurance |
| Leaving Scene – Bodily Injury | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $3,000 | 12 points (Revocation) | Felony if serious injury, mandatory court appearance |
| Leaving Scene – Death | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 | Revocation | Vehicular manslaughter charges possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
- Receive Your Citation or Summons: You will get a traffic citation or criminal summons ordering you to appear at the District Court of MD for Charles County.
- Consult a Hit and Run Lawyer: Contact a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with police or other parties without legal counsel.
- Case Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence, including the police report, witness statements, and any available video footage.
- Pre-Trial Negotiation: Your lawyer may negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction (e.g., to a non-criminal traffic offense) or seek a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) to avoid points and a conviction.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea agreement isn’t possible, your attorney will prepare for a bench trial before a District Court judge.
- Post-Trial Actions: If convicted, your lawyer can advise on appeals to Circuit Court or mitigating the MVA point consequences.
Why Choose Our Charles County Traffic Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience and a track record of 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our hit and run lawyer Charles County team is familiar with the local court procedures and personnel.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His decades of experience across multiple jurisdictions strengthen the firm’s defense approach.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Charles County, including La Plata, Waldorf, Indian Head, White Plains, Bryans Road, and Hughesville. If you need a hit and run accident charge lawyer Charles County, we are accessible via Route 301, Route 228, Route 210, and Route 5.
Charles County Hit and Run Defense FAQs
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Charles County?
Do not speak to police or insurance investigators without a lawyer. Contact a hit and run lawyer Charles County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, like photos or notes about the incident, and provide it to your attorney.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run with no injury?
Yes. Leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and an 8-point license penalty. The court considers factors like the damage amount and your driving record.
What is the difference between a hit and run and leaving the scene?
They are the same offense. “Hit and run” is the common term; “leaving the scene of an accident” is the formal legal charge under Maryland law. A leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Charles County defends against this specific statute.
Is a hit and run a felony in Maryland?
It depends. A hit and run is a felony if the accident resulted in a death. Cases involving serious bodily injury can also be charged as felonies. Property damage and minor injury cases are typically misdemeanors.
Can I get Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a hit and run?
It is possible for first-time offenders in property damage cases. A PBJ avoids a conviction and points but requires probation terms. An experienced hit and run accident charge lawyer Charles County can argue for this outcome.
For more information, see our Maryland Traffic Lawyer hub. We also assist with related matters like Criminal Defense in Charles County and DUI/DWI charges.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.