Brentwood Hit and Run Lawyer

Facing Hit and Run Charges in Brentwood? We Are Ready to Fight for Your Rights

A minor fender-bender on San Vicente Boulevard, a scrape in a Brentwood parking lot, or an unexpected late-night collision can spiral out of control if you panic and leave the scene. In Brentwood, law enforcement and prosecutors are zealous about pursuing hit-and-run cases, even if the property damage is slight or there is no injury involved. The moment you receive a knock at your door or a note on your windshield from the police, you need a hit and run attorney who thoroughly understands local court practices, the nuances of California Vehicle Code § 20002, and the effective legal strategies that convince judges and prosecutors to dismiss or reduce charges. At My Rights Law, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you minimize the impact of these serious allegations.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To secure a conviction for hit and run, the prosecutor must establish each “element of the crime” beyond a reasonable doubt, as set forth in CALCRIM 2150:

• You were involved in an accident that caused damage to another person’s property or vehicle.
• You knew, or reasonably should have known, that damage had occurred.
• You willfully failed to stop, provide your information, or offer assistance as required by law.

Our experienced attorneys challenge each aspect of the prosecution’s case—questioning whether you knew an accident happened, whether you made a good-faith attempt to exchange information, and whether law enforcement made assumptions that don’t hold up in court.

California Vehicle Code § 20002 – Misdemeanor Hit and Run

Language of the statute (condensed):

“The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting solely in damage to property shall immediately stop at the nearest safe location and shall, upon request, supply the name and current residence address of the driver and owner.”

Failure to comply can result in up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, and an order to pay full restitution. In Brentwood, prosecutors often request reimbursement for all towing and repair expenses associated with the incident.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges Explained

Injury/Death

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): No injury – property damage only
• VC 20001 (Felony): Bodily injury or fatality involved

Maximum Custody

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Up to 6 months in county jail
• VC 20001 (Felony): Up to 4 years in state prison (more if there is serious injury)

Driver’s License Impact

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): 2 points; possible license suspension
• VC 20001 (Felony): Mandatory suspension; possible revocation

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Payment for property damage
• VC 20001 (Felony): Covers medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering

Probation

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Informal probation, up to 3 years
• VC 20001 (Felony): Formal probation with strict terms

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A conviction for misdemeanor hit and run can result in:

• Up to six months in the West Valley Detention Center.
• Fines up to $1,000, plus additional penalty assessments.
• Three years of informal probation, including community service, possible alcohol or drug classes, and SR-22 insurance filings if impairment was suspected.
• Liability for all property damage and towing costs.
• Two DMV points, which may increase insurance rates and trigger license suspension for repeat offenders.

However, with the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney, many first-time defendants avoid jail and a permanent record by securing a civil compromise, diversion program, or reduction of charges to a non-criminal infraction. Our team knows how to leverage these alternatives to minimize the impact on your life and future.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our knowledgeable legal team at My Rights Law has defended hundreds of hit-and-run cases in Brentwood, achieving results that protect our clients from life-altering consequences. We utilize strategies such as:

• Lack of Knowledge – You genuinely did not realize an accident had occurred. For example, a slight tap on a truck’s bumper might not be felt inside the vehicle. We use accident-reconstruction experts and vehicle data to support your lack of awareness.
• No Actual Property Damage – The law applies only if something was actually damaged. If marks were already present or the damage was exaggerated, our team gathers photos and reports to challenge the prosecutor’s claims.
• Stopped and Attempted to Exchange Info – Sometimes, drivers stop, but the other party leaves. Evidence like cell phone records or dash-cam footage can prove you did your part.
• Unable to Locate the Owner – The law permits leaving a written note if you cannot find the property owner. A clear, visible message with your details fulfills your legal obligation.
• Emergency Situations – If you left due to a medical emergency, threat to safety, or direction from law enforcement, we can present this as a valid excuse for your temporary departure.
• Mistaken Identity – Mistakes with license plate numbers, stolen vehicles, or ride-share errors can point to the wrong person. We track down evidence to clear your name.
• Illegal Search or Statement – If police coerced a confession or detained you unlawfully, we file motions to suppress such evidence, often undermining the prosecution’s case.

Every defense is personalized to your unique case. We highlight your clean record, proper insurance, and readiness to resolve the situation, turning a challenging situation into an opportunity for a positive resolution.

Contact Our Brentwood Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

The sooner you take action, the more likely it is that critical evidence—like dash-cam recordings, eyewitness statements, or repair receipts—can be collected to support your defense. Our Brentwood hit and run attorneys are available now for a free, confidential consultation by phone at (424) 421-2330. We will:

• Carefully review the arrest and police reports for inconsistencies.
• Reach out to the alleged victim to negotiate a possible civil compromise.
• Negotiate with the court for a reduction to a no-point infraction whenever possible.
• Seek a dismissal if you are factually innocent or your rights were violated.

We have handled a wide range of cases, from minor parking lot accidents to complex, multi-car incidents involving injuries. Our deep knowledge of DMV regulations, insurance subrogation, and California criminal law ensures that you have the strongest possible defense for your situation.

Do not risk your future or your driving record. Contact our office today at (424) 421-2330 for a free consultation, and let us help you regain control. The right legal strategy can turn anxiety into confidence and give you the peace of mind you deserve.