Los Angeles Misdemeanor Hit and Run Defense Attorney

At Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., our experienced legal team specializes in defending clients charged with driving offenses in Los Angeles. Understanding your rights and responsibilities under California law is essential, especially given the severe legal and personal consequences these charges can carry.

What Constitutes a Misdemeanor Hit and Run in Los Angeles?

In California, misdemeanor hit-and-run charges are governed by Vehicle Code Section 20002. Unlike felony charges, which involve injury or death, misdemeanor hit-and-run charges apply specifically when a traffic collision results only in property damage.

If you're involved in an accident causing damage to someone else's property, such as a vehicle, fence, mailbox, bicycle, or even a pet, you have a legal obligation to stop and identify yourself. California law requires immediate compliance, regardless of who caused the accident or how minor the damage appears.

Legal Duties After a Property Damage Accident: California VC 20002 Explained

Under Vehicle Code 20002, every driver involved in an accident that results in property damage must:

• Immediately stop their vehicle at the nearest safe location.
• Locate the property owner or leave a visible note with identifying information if the owner isn't present.
• Provide their name and current address to any affected parties.
• Present their driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance information upon request.
• If the driver isn’t the vehicle’s registered owner, they must also provide the registered owner's details.

California Vehicle Code 16025 further mandates exchanging insurance information, and failure to comply is a separate infraction punishable by fines up to $250.

California Misdemeanor Hit and Run Penalties: What You Risk if Convicted

Penalties upon conviction for misdemeanor hit and run in Los Angeles can be significant:

• Up to six months' imprisonment in county jail.
• Summary probation lasting up to one year.
• Mandatory restitution covering any damages to the affected property.
• Additional court fees and fines.
• The California DMV added two points to your driving record, potentially impacting your insurance premiums and driving privileges.

Best Legal Defenses for Misdemeanor Hit and Run in Los Angeles

A skilled defense attorney from Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. can employ several effective defenses explicitly tailored to your case:

• Lack of Knowledge: If you were unaware of the collision, you cannot be held criminally liable, as Vehicle Code 20002 requires knowledge of the accident.
• Mistaken Identity: If you demonstrate you weren't driving the vehicle involved, your charges could be dismissed entirely.
• Damage Limited to Your Property: No criminal liability exists under VC 20002 if the only property damage was to your vehicle or property.
• Immediate Return to Scene: Demonstrating you attempted to return to the scene immediately after noticing the collision could mitigate charges.

Can a Civil Compromise Dismiss Your Misdemeanor Hit and Run Case?

California law recognizes civil compromise as a viable option for dismissing misdemeanor hit-and-run charges. Under a civil compromise, the accused agrees to reimburse the victim for all damages fully. Successfully reaching this agreement may result in rejecting criminal charges and avoiding a criminal record entirely.

How DUI Charges Can Complicate a Hit and Run Case in California

Often, misdemeanor hit and run allegations accompany other serious charges, including driving under the influence (DUI). Prosecutors commonly file DUI charges (Vehicle Code Sections 23152 and 23153) alongside hit-and-run allegations, significantly complicating your legal situation.

At Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., we understand the interplay between these charges and have extensive experience addressing complex cases involving combined allegations. We leverage our comprehensive knowledge to mitigate your full range of legal consequences.

Why You Need an Experienced Los Angeles Hit and Run Defense Attorney

Facing misdemeanor hit-and-run charges alone can be daunting. Hiring an experienced Los Angeles misdemeanor hit and run attorney, such as Michael Kraut, ensures your rights are aggressively protected throughout the legal process. As a former Deputy District Attorney, Mr. Kraut has invaluable insider knowledge of prosecutorial strategies, enabling him to advocate for the best possible outcome effectively.

When representing clients charged with misdemeanor hit and run, Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. actively:

• Thoroughly investigates your case details.
• Consults with experts to reconstruct accident scenes if necessary.
• Identifies inconsistencies and weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Negotiates aggressively for reduced charges or complete dismissal.
• Pursues civil compromise when advantageous.
• Prepares extensively for trial to ensure your rights and interests are fully represented.

What to Do Immediately After a Misdemeanor Hit and Run Charge in Los Angeles

If you’ve been involved in an accident and left the scene, or if authorities have already charged you with misdemeanor hit and run, you must take immediate steps:

• Contact an attorney immediately to ensure proper representation.
• Avoid making statements to law enforcement or insurance companies without legal counsel present.
• Document your recollection of events clearly and truthfully for your attorney’s use.
• Preserve all potential evidence, including vehicle repair records, surveillance footage, and witness information.

Get Help from a Trusted Los Angeles Hit and Run Lawyer Today

Choosing the right attorney can significantly affect the outcome of your misdemeanor hit-and-run case. Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. has built a strong reputation by consistently achieving favorable results for clients facing misdemeanor hit-and-run charges in Los Angeles.

If you're facing misdemeanor hit and run allegations, don't wait to secure skilled, experienced, and aggressive legal representation.

For detailed information about defending against misdemeanor hit-and-run charges and to schedule a confidential, complimentary consultation, contact Michael Kraut at Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., Available 24/7 to defend your rights and secure your future.Call now: 888-334-6344 or 323-464-6453. Or use our secure online form.

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