Hit and Run Lawyer in Laguna Beach

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

A minor collision on Pacific Coast Highway, a scrape in a downtown parking structure, or an unexpected incident on Bluebird Canyon Road can instantly disrupt your life if you panic and leave the scene. Prosecutors in Laguna Beach and throughout Orange County take hit and run allegations seriously, frequently filing charges even when no injuries are reported and the property damage appears minimal. The moment law enforcement contacts you—or even leaves a card on your windshield—it is crucial to have an experienced hit and run lawyer on your side. At My Rights Law, we know the ins and outs of local court procedures, the details of California Vehicle Code § 20002, and the effective defenses that can convince a judge or prosecutor to reduce or even dismiss your case.

Ready to speak with a Laguna Beach hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (949) 942-8580 or contact us online.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To secure a conviction, the prosecution must establish beyond a reasonable doubt the following “elements of the crime” as detailed in CALCRIM 2150:

• That you were involved in an accident causing damage to someone else’s vehicle or property.
• That you knew, or should have reasonably known, about the resulting damage.
• That you willfully failed to stop, provide your identification, and offer assistance as required by law.

Our defense approach challenges each point—whether you were truly aware of any contact, whether you made a genuine effort to exchange information, and whether law enforcement jumped to unwarranted conclusions about your involvement.

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.”

Failing to comply can result in up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, and court-ordered restitution. In Laguna Beach, prosecutors almost always seek full repayment for repairs and any towing expenses.

Differences Between Misdemeanor and Felony Charges Explained

Injury/Death

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): None—property damage only
• VC 20001 (Felony): Any bodily harm or fatality

Maximum Custody

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

Driver’s License Impact

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

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Property repairs
• VC 20001 (Felony): Medical expenses, lost income, pain, and suffering

Probation

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

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A misdemeanor hit and run conviction can result in:

• Up to six months in the Orange County Jail.
• A fine up to $1,000, plus substantial penalty assessments.
• Three years of informal probation, possibly including community service, drug or alcohol classes if impairment was alleged, and an SR-22 insurance requirement.
• Civil liability for all property damage and towing costs.
• Two DMV points, which can spike your insurance and potentially trigger a license suspension if your driving record is shaky.

With a savvy defense lawyer advocating for you, many first-time drivers avoid jail entirely through civil compromises, court-approved diversion, or “parking lot courtesy” resolutions that can clear your criminal record.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our accomplished legal team at My Rights Law has defended hundreds of hit and run allegations throughout Laguna Beach. Here are some of the effective strategies we use:

• Lack of Knowledge – You genuinely did not realize any contact had occurred. A gentle tap on a lifted SUV or a bike rack often registers no sensation inside your vehicle. We can introduce expert testimony and technical data to demonstrate reasonable lack of awareness.
• No Actual Damage – The law applies only if something was truly damaged. If there was pre-existing paint scuffing or exaggerated claims, we gather photos and repair shop reports to undermine the prosecution.
• Stopped and Attempted to Exchange Info – Sometimes, you pulled over, but the other driver took off or refused to wait. Digital evidence like phone GPS logs and dashcam footage can show you met your legal obligation.
• Could Not Locate Property Owner – If you left a clear note with your contact information on an unattended vehicle, the law is satisfied. We collect any proof of your efforts.
• Emergency Situation – If you had to leave due to a medical emergency, personal danger, or at the direction of an officer, you may be excused under the law.
• Mistaken Identity – License plate confusion, vehicle theft, or rideshare mix-ups sometimes lead to the wrong person being blamed. We investigate dispatch logs, camera footage, and witness statements to set the record straight.
• Illegal Police Procedures – If officers violated your rights during questioning or arrest, we aggressively move to suppress that evidence, which can often lead to a case dismissal.

We customize every defense to your unique situation. Our lawyers present your clean record, insurance status, and readiness to make things right—turning even the toughest prosecutor into a negotiating partner willing to find a positive outcome for you.

Contact Our Laguna Beach Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

The sooner you reach out, the better your chance to secure dashcam footage, witnesses, or documentation that can prove your innocence. At My Rights Law, our Laguna Beach hit and run defense team offers free, immediate consultations by phone at (949) 942-8580. We will:

• Analyze the arrest and investigation reports for inconsistencies.
• Work with the alleged victim to pursue a civil compromise and resolve matters out of court.
• Negotiate with the District Attorney to reduce your charge to a non-criminal infraction whenever possible.
• Seek dismissal if the facts or law are on your side, or if your rights were violated during the investigation.

We have deep experience handling both misdemeanor VC 20002 cases and felony VC 20001 matters involving injuries. Whether your case involves minor property damage or a more complex situation, our attorneys will leverage knowledge of DMV rules, insurance procedures, and criminal law to protect your driver’s license, finances, and future.

Don’t risk your record or your freedom. Call our office today at (949) 942-8580 to schedule your free consultation. Let our dedicated hit and run defense lawyers provide you with the strong representation you need to move forward. With the right help, you can go from panic to having a plan—and regain control over your life.

Ready to speak with a Laguna Beach hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (949) 942-8580 or contact us online.