Hit and Run Lawyer in Santa Monica

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

A minor scrape on Ocean Avenue, a bump in a Main Street parking garage, or an unexpected collision along Pacific Coast Highway can quickly escalate if you leave the scene. Prosecutors in Santa Monica and throughout Los Angeles County are known for aggressively pursuing hit-and-run allegations—even in cases of minor property damage or no reported injuries. The moment law enforcement contacts you, it’s vital to have a seasoned hit-and-run attorney who knows the local court procedures, understands the intricacies of California Vehicle Code § 20002, and can apply effective legal strategies that lead to reduced charges or complete dismissal.

Ready to speak with a Santa Monica hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (424) 421-2330 or contact us online.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To convict, the prosecutor must be able to prove, beyond reasonable doubt, the following “elements of the crime” listed in CALCRIM 2150:

• Were involved in an accident that caused damage to someone else’s vehicle or property.
• Knew, or reasonably should have known, about that damage.
• Willfully failed to stop, provide identifying information, and offer assistance when required.

An experienced lawyer will question each element, such as whether you actually knew there was contact, if you made reasonable efforts to exchange information, or if the investigating officer made unwarranted assumptions.

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 do so is punishable by up to six months in county jail, a $1,000 fine, and restitution. In Santa Monica, prosecutors almost always seek full repayment of towing and repair 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 bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering

Probation

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

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A misdemeanor hit and run conviction carries:

• Up to six months in the Santa Monica jail or a county facility.
• A fine up to $1,000, plus substantial penalty assessments.
• Three years of informal probation that may include community service, drug or alcohol counseling if relevant, and SR-22 insurance filings.
• Civil liability for all property damage and towing costs.
• Two DMV points, resulting in insurance increases and possible license suspension if you have prior violations.

However, with a knowledgeable defense attorney advocating on your behalf, many first-time offenders can avoid jail through a civil compromise, pretrial diversion, or a “courtesy notice” reduction that spares them from a criminal conviction.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our accomplished defense team has successfully defended countless hit-and-run cases in Santa Monica. Here are some of the proven strategies we use:

• Lack of Knowledge – You were unaware any collision occurred. Sometimes, a small nudge—especially with larger vehicles—goes unnoticed. We utilize expert analysis to prove reasonable ignorance.
• No Property Damage – Prosecution must show actual damage. We challenge inflated or pre-existing claims with photographic evidence and repair estimates.
• Stopped and Exchanged Information – You tried to comply, but the other party left or refused details. Cellphone records and camera footage can back up your account.
• Unable to Locate Owner – When property is unattended, the law permits leaving your contact information in a visible spot. We demonstrate that you acted in good faith by leaving a clear note.
• Emergency Justified Departure – Medical emergencies, threats, or police instruction can justify a temporary departure. We document these circumstances to explain your actions.
• Mistaken Identity – Errors in identifying the vehicle or driver are common. We investigate potential misidentification, including reviewing surveillance and dispatch logs.
• Illegal Stop or Statement – If your rights were violated during questioning or detention, we move to exclude any statements, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Every case is unique, and we customize our defense to your situation—highlighting a clean record, valid insurance, and willingness to make amends—to secure the best possible outcome with prosecutors and judges alike.

Contact Our Santa Monica Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

The sooner you seek help, the more likely we are to secure critical evidence—like dash-cam footage or eyewitness accounts—that can clear you. Our Santa Monica hit and run defense attorneys offer a free, confidential consultation at (424) 421-2330. We will:

• Carefully analyze the police reports for errors or inconsistencies.
• Reach out to the alleged victim to explore a civil compromise.
• Work with the court to reduce your charge to a non-criminal infraction.
• Pursue outright dismissal when the facts or your rights warrant it.

We have a deep understanding of both misdemeanor and felony hit-and-run cases in Santa Monica, from simple fender-benders to serious collisions. Our expertise with DMV hearings, insurance disputes, and local criminal procedures lets us protect your driving privileges and your future.

Don’t risk a lifelong record or license suspension. Call our office today at (424) 421-2330, request your free consultation, and let an aggressive, knowledgeable attorney take control of your defense. With one call, you can move from uncertainty to a clear, strategic plan for moving forward.

Ready to speak with a Santa Monica hit and run lawyer? Contact us now at (424) 421-2330 or contact us online.