Hit and Run Lawyer in Cypress

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

An unexpected bump at a Cypress intersection, a minor scrape in the Target parking lot, or an early-morning fender-bender on Valley View Street can quickly spiral out of control if you leave the scene without exchanging information. Law enforcement in Cypress and across Orange County is aggressive when it comes to investigating and prosecuting hit and run allegations—even in cases with minimal property damage and no reported injuries. If a police officer appears at your home or leaves a citation on your windshield, it’s time to speak with a dedicated hit and run lawyer who knows the ins and outs of the Cypress courthouse, California Vehicle Code § 20002, and the best legal strategies to minimize or dismiss the charges. My Rights Law will work relentlessly to defend your rights and protect your future.

Ready to speak with a Cypress hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

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

• You were involved in a crash that caused damage to another person’s vehicle or property.
• You knew, or reasonably should have known, that such damage occurred.
• You intentionally failed to stop, share your identifying information, and render aid as required by law.

A savvy attorney will challenge each component, questioning whether you genuinely knew an accident happened, whether you made a reasonable attempt to exchange information, and whether law enforcement made assumptions unsupported by evidence.

California Vehicle Code § 20002 – Misdemeanor Hit and Run

Statute Summary:

“Any driver involved in an accident resulting solely in property damage must immediately stop at the nearest safe location and provide the name and current address of both the driver and vehicle owner upon request.”

Failure to comply can result in up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, and orders for restitution. In Cypress, prosecutors frequently insist on full repayment 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): Any injury or fatality

Maximum Custody

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Up to 6 months in county jail
• VC 20001 (Felony): Up to 4 years in state prison (longer for severe injuries)

Driver’s License Impact

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

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Covers property damage
• VC 20001 (Felony): Includes medical bills, lost earnings, pain, and suffering

Probation

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

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A misdemeanor hit and run conviction in Cypress can result in:

• Up to six months in the Orange County Jail.
• A fine of up to $1,000, with additional penalty assessments that can significantly increase the total amount owed.
• Three years of informal probation, often including requirements for community service, classes related to substance use (if applicable), and SR-22 insurance filings.
• Civil liability for all property losses, including towing and storage fees.
• Two points added to your DMV record, which may lead to higher insurance premiums and possible license suspension for drivers with prior violations.

However, a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can often negotiate alternative outcomes for first-time offenders, such as a civil compromise, pretrial diversion, or a “parking lot courtesy” resolution that avoids a permanent criminal record.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our experienced defense team has effectively resolved hundreds of hit-and-run cases throughout Cypress by using proven strategies such as:

• Lack of Knowledge – You had no idea a collision occurred. Minor impacts—especially in larger vehicles—may not be noticeable. We use accident reconstruction experts and vehicle data to demonstrate this reasonable lack of awareness.
• No Actual Damage – VC 20002 only applies if property was damaged. If the alleged “damage” was pre-existing or exaggerated, photographs and repair shop reports can dismantle the prosecution’s case.
• Stopped and Attempted Exchange – In many cases, you tried to exchange information but the other driver left first. We use cellphone records and dash-cam data to prove your good faith effort.
• Unable to Locate Owner – When property is unattended, leaving a written note with your contact information fully satisfies legal requirements. A photo of the note can be critical evidence.
• Emergency Departure – Medical emergencies, threats to safety, or direction from a police officer can justify leaving the scene temporarily.
• Identity Mistake – Wrong license plate, a stolen car, or confusion with rideshare vehicles can result in misidentification. Subpoenaing dispatch records and surveillance video can clear your name.
• Unlawful Stop or Statement – If the police violated your rights by coercing a statement or conducting an illegal stop, we move to suppress the evidence, often leading to dismissal.

We build a personalized defense for each case. Our lawyers emphasize your clean record, proof of insurance, and readiness to resolve damages, helping to transform an aggressive prosecution into a negotiation that protects your reputation and future.

Contact Our Cypress Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

The sooner you reach out, the better your chances of recovering dash-cam footage, contacting witnesses, or gathering paperwork that could prove your innocence. Our Cypress hit-and-run defense team is available now for a free, confidential consultation by phone at (562) 337-3990. We will:

• Review all arrest and incident reports for errors or weak evidence.
• Contact the alleged victim to seek a civil settlement or compromise.
• Negotiate with the court to reduce your charges or seek a no-point infraction.
• Fight for dismissal based on your innocence or violations of your constitutional rights.

Our attorneys are highly skilled in both misdemeanor (VC 20002) and felony (VC 20001) cases. Whether your incident involved a dented door or a complex, multi-car crash, we bring a deep understanding of Cypress DMV procedures, insurance disputes, and local court rules to every case. We will safeguard your license, your finances, and your reputation.

Don’t risk your future over a single mistake. Call (562) 337-3990 now for a free consultation. Let us help you turn anxiety into a winning defense strategy and put you back on the right road.

Ready to speak with a Cypress hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online.