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Facing hit and run charges in Phoenix, AZ, can be overwhelming and potentially life-altering, making it critical to have the right legal guidance. A skilled Phoenix criminal defense lawyer understands the complexities of Arizona traffic laws and will work to protect your rights every step of the way.
Our attorney has experience handling these kinds of cases and will help you fight back against any charges you’re facing. For help with any type of criminal matter in Phoenix, Arizona, we’re here for you. Contact Orent Law Offices at (480) 656-7301 or schedule a consultation with a Phoenix hit and run attorney.
If you’ve been arrested for hit and run in Phoenix, Arizona, you should work with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Attorney Craig Orent has over 34 years of experience as a Phoenix criminal defense attorney. He is ready to use his vast knowledge and experience to help with your hit and run defense.
In addition to his lengthy experience, Attorney Craig Orent has received the following accolades:
Named in the Nation’s Top One Percent Attorneys by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel; named as one of Arizona’s Finest Lawyers, and recognized as one of the Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers by the American Society of Legal Advocates. His demonstrated excellence as a Phoenix criminal defense attorney will show in his representation of you in your hit and run case.
Here’s how we can help:
For help with a hit and run charge in Phoenix, Arizona, let us help. Contact Orent Law Offices to schedule a free consultation with our Phoenix hit and run attorney.
Hit and run laws in Arizona impose strict legal requirements on individuals involved in automobile accidents. Under these laws, drivers must stay at the scene – or return as quickly as possible – to provide essential information, such as their name, address, vehicle registration, and license details to the other parties and/or law enforcement.
Failing to meet these obligations can result in either misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances of the accident, including the extent of injuries, property damage, or any other aggravating factors.
Penalties for a hit and run in Phoenix, Arizona can vary widely depending on the severity of the accident, including whether there were injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.
In the following cases, hit and run can be a felony and can carry the following consequences:
Leaving the scene of an accident involving minor injury and failing to comply with legal obligations can be charged as a Class 5 felony. This type of offense carries a sentence of anywhere from probation to 2.5 years in prison.
If a driver leaves the scene when serious injury or death occurs, and also neglects to help the injured person or contact authorities, it may rise to a Class 3 felony. Convictions carry up to 8.75 years in prison, probation, and a driver’s license revocation.
If the driver is the one who caused the accident and fled, the offense is elevated to a Class 2 felony. This charge has the potential to lead to up to 12.5 years in prison.
Misdemeanor hit and run charges include the following situations and penalties:
A driver who strikes an unattended vehicle in Arizona must immediately stop and either locate and notify the owner or leave a written note in a conspicuous place. The note must include the name and address of the driver and owner of the vehicle causing the accident. Leaving the scene without providing the above information is a Class 1 misdemeanor and carries up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Understanding the full range of potential penalties underscores the importance of remaining at the scene and seeking immediate legal assistance if you’re facing hit and run charges. An experienced criminal defense attorney will review your case and advise you on the likely outcome provided your charges.
Defending against a hit and run charge often involves evaluating the events leading up to and surrounding the accident. Below are some of the most common legal defenses, which can help demonstrate why a defendant acted or failed to act in a particular way.
A driver may not have realized they collided with another vehicle or object. For instance, they may have only felt a slight bump or tap and assumed it wasn’t a problem. Proving a genuine lack of knowledge can potentially lead to dismissal or reduction of charges.
Sometimes, drivers might not see any visible damage and believe nothing was harmed, especially if the other driver continues on without complaint. Establishing that the defendant reasonably believed there was no real damage, and, therefore, no need to stop can be a valid defense in misdemeanor cases.
In cases involving serious injury, the driver may contend that they didn’t realize a person was involved. They may have believed they hit an animal or debris, not recognizing the severity of the incident. To utilize this defense, the driver must show a reasonable basis for this mistaken belief.
A defendant could argue they fled because they feared for their personal safety. For example, if the accident occurred in an unsafe area or there were signs of violent or aggressive behavior from another person, they might have believed remaining at the scene was not a viable option.
In any hit and run case, presenting a strong defense depends on the facts of the incident. Working with an experienced attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.
If you’ve been involved in a hit and run in Phoenix, Arizona, understanding the charges, penalties, and possible defenses is crucial to protecting your rights.
With the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer, you can examine your options and make sure you have the strongest defense. For help, contact Orent Law Offices to schedule a consultation with a Phoenix hit and run attorney.
