Hit and Run Lawyer Orange County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Orange County, New York, is a serious offense under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600, carrying penalties from fines to jail. If you are facing a hit and run accident charge, you need a lawyer who understands the local courts. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Hit and Run Law
In New York, a hit and run, formally called leaving the scene of an accident, is defined by Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600. This law requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in property damage, injury, or death to stop, provide their information, and render reasonable aid. The severity of the charge depends on the consequences of the accident.
Last verified: April 2026 | Orange County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has handled traffic and criminal matters across multiple states, including complex cases like leaving the scene of an accident.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600 on the New York State Senate website. For local court procedures, visit the Orange County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Charge
In Orange County, a hit and run accident charge lawyer must handle specific local procedures. Most hit and run cases involving only property damage are handled in local town or village courts as traffic infractions or misdemeanors. Cases involving injury are more serious and may be heard in Orange County Supreme Court. Prosecutors in these courts actively pursue these charges.
- Receive a ticket (DAT) or summons for leaving the scene.
- Arraignment in the appropriate local or county court.
- Review evidence with your lawyer, including police reports and witness statements.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal, if possible.
- Prepare for a bench or jury trial if no acceptable plea is offered.
- Address sentencing or appeal the verdict if convicted.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run in Orange County
In Orange County, a hit and run carries penalties ranging from fines and points to felony imprisonment, depending on whether the accident caused property damage, injury, or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage | Traffic Infraction / Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year (misdemeanor) | $0 – $1,000+ | Points, possible suspension | Civil liability, increased insurance |
| Leaving Scene – Physical Injury | Class A Misdemeanor / Class E Felony | Up to 4 years (felony) | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, civil suits |
| Leaving Scene – Death | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory revocation | Severe felony record, wrongful death suits |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our approach is direct: we analyze the facts, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and work toward the best possible result. We understand that a charge for leaving the scene of an accident can be stressful, and we provide clear guidance through the Orange County court process.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in traffic and criminal cases. In Orange County, we have secured dismissals and reductions for clients facing serious charges. Every case is different, but our focused strategy aims for the best resolution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near Orange County, NY
Our New York location serves clients in Orange County and the Hudson Valley. We represent individuals at local town courts and the Orange County Supreme Court in Goshen.
Areas Served: Goshen, Newburgh, Middletown, Monroe, Warwick, Chester, Cornwall, Highland Falls, Kiryas Joel, Tuxedo, and surrounding Orange County communities.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Hit and Run Defense FAQs for Orange County
Is a hit and run a felony in New York?
It depends. Leaving the scene of an accident is a felony if the accident caused serious physical injury or death, as per VTL § 600(2)(a, b). For property damage only, it is typically a misdemeanor or traffic infraction.
What should I do if I am charged with leaving the scene?
First, do not speak to police without a lawyer. Then, contact a hit and run lawyer Orange County immediately. An attorney can secure the police report, witness statements, and any video evidence to build your defense strategy for the local court.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run?
Yes. A conviction for leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death mandates license revocation under New York law. Even a property damage conviction can lead to points and a potential suspension.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Defenses may include lack of knowledge an accident occurred, mistaken identity, or an emergency that compelled you to leave. A skilled hit and run accident charge lawyer Orange County can evaluate the facts to identify the strongest defense.
How long does a hit and run case take?
A misdemeanor case in a local Orange County court may take several months. A felony case in Orange County Supreme Court can take a year or more, depending on evidence and court schedules.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our New York Criminal Defense overview, or learn about defense in New York County. For related legal help, consider a DUI lawyer in Orange County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.