Hit And Run Lawyer in Rockland County, NY — What Are Your Defense Options?
A hit and run in Rockland County is a serious offense under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600, potentially a felony. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for those accused of leaving the scene. A conviction can mean jail, heavy fines, and license revocation. Our firm offers 24/7 consultations to discuss your case and potential defenses.
New York Hit and Run Law
New York law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop, provide information, and render aid. Leaving the scene, or hit and run, is defined under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600. The severity of the charge depends on whether the accident caused property damage, injury, or death. A conviction carries significant penalties that escalate with the harm caused.
Last verified: April 2026 | Rockland County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600 (official New York State Senate). Court procedures and forms for Rockland County can be found at the Rockland County Supreme Court website.
Local Court Process for a Hit and Run Case
Hit and run cases in Rockland County are typically heard in local town or village courts, such as Clarkstown Justice Court or Ramapo Justice Court, depending on where the incident occurred. The process begins with an arraignment where you enter a plea. The prosecution must prove you were the driver, knew an accident occurred, and intentionally failed to stop. Defenses often challenge the identification of the driver or the driver’s knowledge of the accident.
- Receive a summons or be arrested following the alleged incident.
- Attend your arraignment in the appropriate local court to hear the formal charges.
- Your attorney will obtain discovery from the prosecutor to review the evidence against you.
- Explore defense strategies, which may include negotiating a plea or preparing for trial.
- Attend pre-trial conferences and hearings as scheduled by the court.
- Proceed to a bench trial or negotiate a final resolution before the trial date.
Potential Penalties for Hit and Run in New York
In Rockland County, a hit and run conviction carries penalties ranging from fines and points to felony imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage | Traffic Infraction / Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year (if misdemeanor) | $250 – $1,000+ | Mandatory Revocation (min. 6 months) | 3 points, Driver Responsibility Assessment, civil liability |
| Leaving Scene – Personal Injury | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | $500 – $1,000+ | Mandatory Revocation (min. 1 year) | Driver Responsibility Assessment, significant civil liability |
| Leaving Scene – Serious Injury/Death | Class E or D Felony | Up to 7 years | $1,000 – $5,000+ | Mandatory Revocation | Felony record, permanent criminal consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Traffic Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, the firm has handled thousands of traffic and criminal matters. Our approach is built on understanding both the law and the local court systems where your case will be heard.
Legal Representation for Hit and Run Charges
If you are facing hit and run charges, securing experienced legal counsel is the most important step you can take. An attorney can investigate the circumstances, challenge the evidence, and advocate for the best possible outcome, which may include charge reduction or dismissal.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Hit And Run Law Firm Rockland NY
Our New York location serves clients in Rockland County and is accessible via I-87 (NYS Thruway) and I-287. We provide representation for individuals in New City, Nanuet, Spring Valley, Suffern, Haverstraw, Pearl River, Nyack, Stony Point, and Sloatsburg.
Hit and run attorney near Rockland County. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 | Local: (716) 348-4644
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hit And Run Attorney Rockland NY
Is hit and run a felony in New York?
It depends. Leaving the scene of an accident that caused only property damage is typically a misdemeanor or traffic infraction. However, if the accident caused serious physical injury or death, the charge becomes a Class E or Class D felony under NY VTL § 600(2).
What should I do if I’m accused of a hit and run?
First, do not speak to police or insurance investigators without an attorney. Contact a hit and run lawyer immediately. Your attorney can advise you on your rights, begin an investigation, and communicate with the prosecutor on your behalf to protect your interests from the start.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run?
Yes. A conviction for leaving the scene of an accident in New York carries a mandatory driver’s license revocation. The minimum revocation period is six months for property damage, one year for personal injury, and longer for incidents involving serious injury or death.
What are common defenses to a hit and run charge?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that an accident occurred, mistaken identity (you were not the driver), or an emergency that compelled you to leave the scene. A skilled attorney will examine the evidence, including police reports and witness statements, to build the strongest defense for your situation.
How long does a hit and run case take?
The timeline varies. A clear case in a local Rockland County court may be resolved in a few months through negotiation. A case that goes to trial, especially a felony case, can take a year or more to conclude through the court system.
For more information, see our New York traffic lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Albany County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Rockland County DUI lawyer services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your hit and run case.