Hit and Run Lawyer Orange County — What Are Your Defenses?
A hit and run in Orange County, New York, is a serious traffic offense under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600, carrying penalties from fines to jail time. If you are facing a hit and run accident charge, you need a lawyer who understands the local courts. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Hit and Run Law
New York law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop, provide information, and render aid. Leaving the scene, or a hit and run, is charged under Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600. The severity of the charge depends on whether the accident caused property damage, injury, or death.
Last verified: April 2026 | Orange County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600 (official New York State Senate site). Court procedures and forms can be found at the Orange County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
In Orange County, a hit and run accident charge lawyer Orange County must handle specific local procedures. Most hit and run cases begin with a desk appearance ticket (DAT) issued by police, requiring you to appear in Orange County Criminal Court for arraignment. New York’s bail reform means most defendants are released on recognizance for these charges. The court process involves negotiations with the District Attorney’s office, possible plea deals, and, if necessary, a bench trial.
- Receive a summons, ticket, or be arrested following the accident.
- Arraignment in Orange County Criminal Court to hear formal charges.
- Your attorney obtains discovery (police reports, witness statements, video).
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or favorable plea.
- Prepare for and proceed to a bench trial if no agreement is reached.
- Address sentencing or penalties if convicted.
Penalties for Leaving the Scene in Orange County
In Orange County, a hit and run conviction carries penalties based on the accident’s consequences, from fines and points to felony charges and prison time.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage (VTL § 600(1)(a)) | Traffic Infraction | Up to 15 days | $0 – $250 | 3 points | Civil liability for damages |
| Leaving Scene – Personal Injury (VTL § 600(2)(a)) | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Mandatory revocation | Possible civil lawsuit |
| Leaving Scene – Serious Physical Injury (VTL § 600(2)(b)) | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, parole |
| Leaving Scene – Death (VTL § 600(2)(c)) | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, parole |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee 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 your case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a hit and run charge can be stressful, and we work to protect your driving privileges and future.
Case Results in Orange County
Our approach is informed by documented experience in local courts. In Orange County, we have secured dismissals and reductions for clients facing serious traffic and criminal allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near Orange County, NY
Our New York location serves clients throughout Orange County and the Hudson Valley. We represent individuals in Goshen, Newburgh, Middletown, Monroe, Warwick, Chester, Cornwall, Highland Falls, Kiryas Joel, and Tuxedo.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Hit and Run Defense FAQs
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Orange County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer Orange County immediately. Gather any evidence you have, like photos or witness information, and provide it to your lawyer to build your defense.
Can I go to jail for leaving the scene of an accident?
Yes. For accidents involving injury or death, leaving the scene is a misdemeanor or felony with possible jail time. Even for property damage, a judge can impose up to 15 days in jail. A leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Orange County can fight to avoid incarceration.
What if I didn’t know I hit something?
It depends. A common defense is lack of knowledge. If you can prove you were unaware of the accident, the required intent for the charge may be missing. Your attorney will investigate road conditions, vehicle damage, and other facts to support this argument.
Will my license be suspended for a hit and run?
Yes, for convictions involving injury or death, license revocation is mandatory. For property damage-only convictions, you face 3 points but not automatic suspension. However, accumulating points can lead to suspension.
How can a hit and run accident charge lawyer help me?
A lawyer negotiates with prosecutors, challenges the evidence, and presents defenses like mistaken identity or emergency necessity. They work to have charges reduced or dismissed, minimizing penalties and protecting your record.
Related Pages: New York Criminal Defense Lawyer | Criminal Defense Lawyer Manhattan | Orange County DUI Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
