Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers Blog
If you have been arrested for a Los Angeles Hit and Run, you have not yet been convicted. When you are charged, it is basically like the government stating that they believe there is enough evidence that you have committed a Hit and Run, but until you either enter a plea of guilty, or a jury finds you guilty, they cannot convict you and issue a sentence.
The code section under which you will be charged, and the type of Hit and Run you will be charged with will depend on the facts of your case. There are a few different types of Hit and Runs, as you will see below.
- Car versus Pedestrian
This is the most serious Hit and Run offense and can result in felony charges depending on the extent of the injuries. A charge for this type of a Hit and Run will be brought under California Vehicle Code §20003. The potential range of sentencing as stated under California Vehicle Code §20001, will be anywhere between imprisonment in county jail up to one year, and/or a fine between $1,000 to $10,000. If the Hit and Run results in death, the potential penalty may be from 2 to 4 years in state prison, or in county jail from 90 days to no more than a year and/or a fine of anywhere between $1,000.00 to $10,000.00. The final sentence will be at the discretion of the Court. The Court shall take into account the specific facts of your case and any prior offenses. For example, if the injury to the person is a minor sprain then the potential sentence may be on the lower end of the range. However, if the Hit and Run results in a fracture, broken bone, or potential permanent damage, then the sentence will be on the higher end of the spectrum.
2. Car versus Property A Hit and Run charge where the damage is to property is brought under California Vehicle Code §20002. The potential sentence range, as stated under the same section is imprisonment in county jail not exceeding six months, and/or a fine not to exceed $1,000.00.
Much like in the circumstances of a Hit and Run against a pedestrian, the final sentence will depend on the facts of your case and prior criminal history. If the damage is minimal, then the sentence will be lower, but if the damage is extensive then the sentence will be higher.
If you find yourself facing Hit and Run charges, especially charges that may land you a sentence on the higher end of the spectrum, be sure to contact a Los Angeles Hit and Run lawyer immediately. They have over thirty years of experience and knowledge that will help guide you through the process. Most importantly, they will develop a strategy and defense that will help reduce or dismiss your charges. Actions can be taken immediately after your arrest, and the sooner a professional can step in, the sooner they can work to strengthen the weaknesses of your case, to get you the results that you want.