Pasadena Hit and Run Lawyer

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

A minor collision on Colorado Boulevard, a tight scrape in the parking lot at Paseo Colorado, or a nighttime accident on the 210 can instantly change your life—especially if fear causes you to leave the scene. Prosecutors in Pasadena, as well as across Los Angeles County, actively pursue hit and run cases, even in incidents where the damage is minimal and there are no reports of injury. The moment a police officer reaches out, or you receive a notice on your windshield, it’s critical to consult with a hit and run lawyer who understands local Pasadena court procedures, the ins and outs of California Vehicle Code § 20002, and the legal defenses that can lead to dismissed or reduced charges. My Rights Law has deep experience in defending clients against these charges and is committed to protecting your reputation and your future.

Elements of a Hit and Run Crime

To secure a conviction, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt every “element of the crime” as set out in CALCRIM 2150:

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

A knowledgeable defense attorney examines each factor—disputing whether you truly knew there was contact, whether you tried in good faith to exchange information, and whether law enforcement jumped to unfair conclusions.

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, provide the name and current residence address of the driver and owner.”

Failure to comply is punishable by up to six months in county jail, a fine up to $1,000, and court-ordered restitution. In Pasadena, the District Attorney commonly seeks reimbursement for all related 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 injury or fatality

Maximum Custody

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

Driver’s License Impact

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

Restitution

• VC 20002 (Misdemeanor): Covers property repairs
• VC 20001 (Felony): Medical costs, lost earnings, and pain and suffering

Probation

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

Penalties Under California Vehicle Code § 20002

A misdemeanor hit and run conviction in Pasadena can bring:

• Up to six months in custody at the local detention center.
• A fine up to $1,000, plus substantial penalty assessments.
• Up to three years of informal probation, often including community service, court-mandated classes, and SR-22 insurance filings if impairment is alleged.
• Civil liability for all property damage, towing, and storage costs.
• Two DMV points, leading to increased insurance premiums and potential license suspension if your record is shaky.

With the right legal defense, first-time offenders frequently avoid jail and sometimes secure a dismissal or charge reduction via a civil compromise or a “courtesy accident” finding that removes criminal exposure from their record.

Legal Defenses to Hit and Run Accusations

Our experienced defense attorneys have helped hundreds of clients overcome hit and run allegations throughout Pasadena. Effective defense strategies include:

• Lack of Knowledge – You honestly didn’t know any collision occurred. For example, a light tap to another vehicle might not be noticeable inside your car. Accident reconstruction and vehicle data can support this defense.
• No Actual Damage – The law only applies if there was real damage. If marks or scratches were already there, or the other party exaggerated claims, evidence such as photos or mechanic reports can be powerful tools.
• Information Was Exchanged – If you stopped and attempted to provide your information, but the other party left, cell phone records, dash-cam footage, and witness statements can confirm you complied with the law.
• Could Not Locate Owner – The statute allows leaving your contact details in a visible spot if the owner isn’t present. Proof of a note left on the windshield or door may meet legal requirements.
• Emergency Justified Departure – Sometimes, a medical emergency, imminent danger, or direct police instruction can excuse a temporary departure from the scene.
• Mistaken Identity – It’s not uncommon for the wrong person to be accused due to mistaken license plate numbers, stolen vehicles, or ride-share mix-ups. Investigative work such as checking surveillance footage and subpoenaing records can clear your name.
• Unlawful Police Action – If police did not follow proper procedures, coerced a statement without Miranda warnings, or performed an unlawful stop, we challenge the admissibility of evidence and fight to get the case dismissed.

Every defense is tailored to your situation. We highlight your clean record, valid insurance, and efforts to resolve the issue, aiming to turn prosecutors into partners for fair solutions rather than seeking harsh punishment.

Contact Our Pasadena Hit and Run Lawyer for Help

The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of gathering crucial evidence like dash-cam video, witness contact information, or repair receipts that could make all the difference in your case. Our Pasadena hit and run defense team offers a free, confidential consultation by phone at (626) 628-2889. Here’s what we do:

• Scrutinize police reports for errors or inconsistencies.
• Contact the alleged victim to explore a civil settlement and possible case dismissal.
• Negotiate with prosecutors and courts to reduce or eliminate criminal charges.
• Defend you aggressively if your rights have been violated or if evidence is lacking.

We are well-versed in both misdemeanor VC 20002 cases and more serious VC 20001 injury allegations. Whether your situation involves a minor parking lot scrape or a more complex multi-vehicle collision, our attorneys use their deep knowledge of DMV rules, insurance claims, and California criminal law to safeguard your license, your finances, and your future.

Don’t let a hit and run charge jeopardize your reputation and freedom. Call (626) 628-2889 for a free consultation and let an experienced Pasadena hit and run lawyer take charge of your defense. One call can move you from uncertainty to a clear plan and give you the confidence you need to move forward.