Hit and Run Lawyer in Anaheim

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

A fender-bender near Disneyland Drive, a parking mishap at the Anaheim GardenWalk, or a late-night accident on Harbor Boulevard can suddenly turn your world upside down if you react in panic and leave the scene. Prosecutors in Anaheim and throughout Orange County take hit-and-run cases seriously, often filing charges even when the incident involves only minor property damage and no reported injuries. The moment an officer contacts you or leaves a notice, you need a hit and run lawyer who knows the local court system, understands the intricacies of California Vehicle Code § 20002, and can present defenses that actually convince a judge to dismiss or reduce the charges. Our team at My Rights Law is committed to defending your rights and minimizing the impact on your record and future.

Ready to speak with a Anaheim hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To obtain a conviction, the prosecution must prove every “element of the crime” beyond a reasonable doubt as described in CALCRIM 2150:

• You were involved in a collision that caused damage to another person’s property or vehicle.
• You knew, or reasonably should have known, that such damage occurred.
• You willfully failed to stop, provide identification, and offer aid if needed.

An experienced attorney will attack each element, questioning whether you truly knew contact occurred, whether you attempted to exchange information, and whether law enforcement may have made assumptions that are not supported by the evidence.

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 lead to up to six months in county jail, a fine as high as $1,000, and court-ordered restitution. In Anaheim, prosecutors routinely demand reimbursement for towing and property repair costs on top of criminal penalties.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges Explained

Injury/Death

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): None – property damage only
• VC 20001 (Felony): Involves injury or death

Maximum Custody

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

Driver’s License Impact

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

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Covers property repairs
• VC 20001 (Felony): Covers medical expenses, lost wages, and more

Probation

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

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A conviction for misdemeanor hit and run in Anaheim can result in:

• As much as six months in the Orange County Jail.
• Fines up to $1,000, plus additional penalty assessments.
• Up to three years of informal probation, potentially requiring community service, alcohol or drug classes if relevant, and SR-22 insurance filings.
• Civil responsibility for property damage and towing expenses.
• Two points on your DMV record, which can lead to increased insurance rates and even license suspension for those with prior infractions.

With the right criminal defense attorney, many first-time offenders avoid incarceration altogether, securing a civil compromise, diversion program, or a reduction to an infraction that carries no criminal record.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our Anaheim legal defense team has successfully fought off hundreds of hit and run allegations using strategies that truly make a difference:

• Lack of Knowledge – Sometimes, drivers genuinely do not realize that an accident took place, especially with minor contact. We use accident reconstruction and technical analysis to demonstrate reasonable lack of awareness.
• No Actual Damage – The law only applies if actual damage occurred. If the damage was pre-existing or claims are exaggerated, we challenge the prosecutor’s case with photographs and repair estimates.
• Stopped and Exchanged Information – In some cases, our clients attempted to exchange details, but the other party left. We collect cell phone records and dash cam evidence to prove our clients did everything the law required.
• Unable to Locate Owner – If a parked car or unattended property is involved, leaving a note with contact details fulfills your obligation under the law.
• Emergency Justified Leaving – Medical emergencies, safety threats, or direct police instructions may justify a temporary departure from the scene.
• Mistaken Identity – Misread license plates, borrowed vehicles, or ride-share confusions often result in wrongful accusations. We investigate thoroughly to reveal the truth.
• Improper Police Procedures – If your rights were violated during questioning or arrest, we move to suppress statements and evidence, undermining the prosecution’s case.

Every defense is custom-fit to your circumstances. We emphasize your positive driving history, insurance status, and desire to make things right, turning the prosecutor from an adversary into a potential ally during negotiations.

Contact Our Anaheim Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

Every moment counts when you’re facing a hit-and-run allegation. Evidence such as dash-cam footage, eyewitness statements, and repair receipts can vanish if not secured immediately. Our Anaheim hit and run attorneys are ready to provide a free, confidential case evaluation right away—call (657) 378-7278. We will:

• Carefully analyze police reports for weaknesses.
• Reach out to the alleged victim and attempt a civil resolution.
• Negotiate with the court for a reduction to a no-point violation or a complete dismissal.
• Assert every defense, including mistaken identity and procedural violations, to protect your rights.

We have deep experience with both minor VC 20002 property-only cases and complex VC 20001 injury prosecutions. Whether your case involves a small scratch or a multi-vehicle incident, our lawyers know how to navigate DMV regulations, insurance claims, and criminal court processes to defend your freedom, your finances, and your future.

Don’t risk your reputation and livelihood. Call us now at (657) 378-7278, schedule your no-cost consultation, and let My Rights Law put an aggressive Anaheim hit and run lawyer on your side. One call can make all the difference in reclaiming control over your life and future.

Ready to speak with a Anaheim hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.