Hit and Run Lawyer American University Park — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in American University Park is a serious criminal traffic offense under D.C. Code § 50-2201.05, carrying up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for hit and run accident charges at DC Superior Court. Our Arlington location serves American University Park clients with 24/7 availability.
Last verified: April 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code Council
DC Hit and Run Law and Penalties
In Washington, D.C., a hit and run – formally known as “leaving the scene of an accident” – is governed by D.C. Code § 50-2201.05. The law requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in property damage, injury, or death to immediately stop, provide their information, and render reasonable aid. Failure to do so constitutes a criminal offense. The severity of the charge and penalties depends on the outcome of the accident.
- Initial Citation or Arrest: You may receive a citation in the mail from the DC DMV or be arrested if identified by police.
- DC DMV Adjudication (Property Damage Only): If only property damage is alleged, the case may start as an administrative hearing at the DC DMV Adjudication Services.
- DC Superior Court Arraignment: For cases involving injury or if the DMV refers it, you will be arraigned in DC Superior Court (500 Indiana Ave NW) and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and negotiates with the Assistant Attorney General for a reduction or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing & DMV Consequences: If convicted, the court imposes penalties, and the DC DMV will assess points, skilled to a possible license suspension.
For the official statute, see D.C. Code § 50-2201.05 (official DC Council code). Court information is available at the DC Superior Court website.
Penalties for Leaving the Scene in American University Park
In American University Park, a hit and run accident charge carries penalties from a fine and points to substantial jail time, depending on whether the accident caused property damage, injury, or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage | Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $250 | 5 points, possible suspension | Civil liability for damages |
| Leaving Scene – Personal Injury | Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | Up to $1,000 | 8 points, likely suspension | Civil lawsuit for injuries |
| Leaving Scene – Death | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Mandatory revocation | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with DC Traffic Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the distinct procedures of DC Superior Court and the DC DMV. For a hit and run accident charge lawyer American University Park clients can rely on, our team builds defenses focused on intent, identification, and the duty to stop.
Case Results in Washington, D.C.
Our attorneys have secured favorable outcomes for clients in Washington, D.C. For example, in a prior case at DC Superior Court, our team successfully defended a client facing a misdemeanor sex abuse charge, resulting in a dismissal. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. While specific hit and run results are protected by confidentiality, our approach involves meticulously reviewing police reports, camera footage, and witness statements to protect your rights.
Contact Our Arlington Office Serving American University Park
Our Arlington location is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395 and I-66. We serve as your hit and run lawyer near American University Park, Georgetown, and Capitol Hill.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve neighborhoods including American University Park, Wesley Heights, Tenleytown, Friendship Heights, and Cleveland Park.
Hit and Run Lawyer American University Park FAQ
Is a hit and run a felony in DC?
It depends. A hit and run is a felony in DC only if the accident resulted in a death. Under D.C. Code § 50-2201.05, leaving the scene of an accident causing death is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Cases involving only property damage or injury are misdemeanors.
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene in American University Park?
First, do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Then, contact a hit and run lawyer American University Park immediately. Your lawyer will obtain the police report, secure any available video evidence, and begin building a defense focused on whether you were aware an accident occurred or had a lawful reason for leaving.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run in DC?
Yes. The DC DMV will assess 5 points for a property damage hit and run and 8 points for an injury hit and run. Accumulating 10-11 points within a two-year period triggers an automatic driver’s license suspension. A conviction also results in a permanent criminal record.
How do DC speed cameras work?
DC has an extensive automated enforcement program. Speed cameras issue fines from $100 to $300 depending on speed, while red light cameras issue $150 fines. These are civil citations adjudicated at the DC DMV, not criminal court. They carry no points and no criminal record, unlike a criminal hit and run charge.
What defenses are there to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity, an emergency that required leaving the scene, or that you returned to the scene within a reasonable time. A leaving the scene of an accident lawyer American University Park can evaluate the specific facts of your case to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Related Practice Areas: Criminal Defense Lawyer Washington, D.C. | DC Traffic Lawyer Hub | DUI Lawyer Washington, D.C.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.