Hit and Run Lawyer Suffolk County, NY
You’re driving east on the Long Island Expressway near Exit 53 in Commack. Traffic is heavy, and you tap the bumper of the car ahead when it stops short. The other driver gets out, looks at the damage, and waves you off as if everything is fine. You assume it’s a minor scratch and continue to your destination. A week later, a Suffolk County police officer arrives at your door with a criminal summons. The other driver decided to report the accident after the fact, and now you are facing a hit-and-run charge. Suddenly, a moment you thought was nothing has turned into a legal crisis with potential fines, license suspension, and even a criminal record.
At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team represent drivers facing hit-and-run accusations in Suffolk County and throughout New York. Founded in 1997, the firm concentrates on traffic and criminal defense and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel. Results may vary. If you have been charged with leaving the scene of an accident, you need an experienced defense attorney who understands how Suffolk County courts handle these cases. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747.
Hit and Run Charges in Suffolk County, New York
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600, drivers involved in an accident must stop, provide identification, and render reasonable assistance. Failing to do so can result in a misdemeanor or felony charge depending on whether anyone was injured. The law distinguishes between leaving the scene of an accident with property damage only and leaving the scene when a person is injured or killed, with the latter carrying far more serious consequences.
Suffolk County prosecutes hit-and-run offenses primarily in the Suffolk County District Court for misdemeanor-level charges and in the Suffolk County Court for felony-level cases. The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office takes these cases seriously, especially when the accident involves a pedestrian, cyclist, or results in injury. Even a first offense can lead to a permanent criminal record if not handled carefully.
For drivers facing a hit-and-run charge in Suffolk County, the immediate steps are critical. Preserve any evidence from the scene, such as photographs, and do not speak with law enforcement or insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel often start by examining whether the driver actually knew an accident occurred—a key element of the charge—or whether the other driver contributed to confusion at the scene.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Hit and Run Cases
Every hit-and-run defense begins with a detailed review of the prosecution’s evidence. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel look closely at police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and any 911 call records. They also consider whether the accused driver had a valid reason to leave the scene—for instance, feeling unsafe or believing no damage had occurred.
In Suffolk County, many hit-and-run cases are resolved without a trial through negotiation or motion practice. The team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. works to challenge the prosecution’s proof that you knowingly left the scene and to negotiate a reduction to a lesser violation, such as a traffic infraction, when the facts support it. If the matter proceeds to trial, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are prepared to contest the charge before a judge or jury. They rely on extensive experience in New York traffic and criminal defense to build a thorough defense.
Because hit-and-run cases can involve both criminal and DMV consequences, the firm’s representation often addresses both fronts simultaneously. A conviction can trigger license revocation, points on your driving record, and increased insurance premiums. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to minimize these outcomes and protect your driving privileges.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has been practicing law since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and handles traffic and criminal matters across the firm’s multi-state practice. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), and his background provides a foundation for strategic advocacy in Suffolk County hit-and-run cases.
Mr. Sris is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring a combined over 120 years of legal experience across traffic defense, criminal law, and related practice areas. Together, they have documented 4,739+ case results since 1997. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a hit and run charge be dropped in Suffolk County?
Yes, a hit and run charge can potentially be dropped or dismissed if the prosecution cannot prove you knowingly left the scene or if another driver caused the accident. In Suffolk County, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine every detail—from witness credibility to whether the property damage exceeded the legal threshold—and challenge the evidence. A dismissal may be possible before trial if the case has significant evidentiary weaknesses. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a hit and run charge in Suffolk County?
Yes, hiring an experienced traffic defense lawyer is strongly advised because a conviction can result in a criminal record, license suspension, and insurance rate increases. Even a misdemeanor hit and run on your record can affect employment and professional licensing. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel understand how Suffolk County courts handle these offenses and can negotiate with prosecutors to seek a favorable resolution. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What are the penalties for a hit and run conviction in New York?
A hit and run conviction in New York can result in fines, license revocation, and imprisonment depending on whether the accident involved injury or property damage only. Leaving the scene of a property-damage accident is a traffic infraction with fines and up to 15 days in jail, while leaving the scene of a personal injury accident is a misdemeanor with up to a year in jail. A fatal hit and run can be a felony. The exact consequences depend on the facts of the case. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
How long does a hit and run case take in Suffolk County?
The duration of a hit and run case in Suffolk County depends on the court’s schedule, the complexity of the evidence, and whether the case resolves through negotiation or goes to trial. Misdemeanor cases in District Court typically take a few months, while felony cases in County Court can run longer. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to move cases forward efficiently while building the strong $1. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your matter.
What should I do if I am accused of a hit and run?
If you are accused of a hit and run, remain silent, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney, and preserve any evidence from the incident. Do not post about the case on social media. Obtain a copy of the police report if possible and write down everything you remember about the accident. Then contact an attorney immediately. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can advise you on how to protect your rights from the very start. For guidance, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Will a hit and run conviction affect my license?
Yes, a hit and run conviction almost always affects your driving privileges in New York. For a property-damage-only offense, the DMV may impose points and could suspend your license. For injury-related offenses, revocation is common. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle both the criminal case and the DMV administrative consequences to help protect your right to drive. To discuss the impact on your license, call (888) 437-7747.
How does a lawyer defend against a hit and run charge in Suffolk County?
An experienced defense lawyer challenges the prosecution’s evidence, examines whether you had knowledge of the accident, and negotiates with the District Attorney for a reduction or dismissal. In Suffolk County, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel use a combination of factual investigation, procedural motions, and courtroom advocacy. They may also present evidence of mechanical failure, poor visibility, or other factors that exonerate or mitigate the charge. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between leaving the scene with property damage and personal injury?
Leaving the scene of an accident with property damage only is generally a traffic infraction or misdemeanor, while leaving the scene involving personal injury is a misdemeanor or felony. The severity of the charge is tied directly to whether someone was hurt. Even a property-damage case can become a criminal matter if the damage is extensive or the driver has a prior record. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can explain how your specific charge is classified under New York law. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your case.
Can I go to jail for a hit and run in Suffolk County?
Yes, a hit and run conviction in Suffolk County can result in jail time, especially if the accident involved injury or death. A misdemeanor conviction can carry up to a year in jail, while felonies can result in state prison. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to avoid incarceration by challenging the charges, advocating for alternative sentences, or securing a dismissal when the facts allow. For guidance, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Does Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handle hit and run cases in other parts of Long Island?
Yes, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel represent clients in Nassau County and throughout Long Island as well as New York City. While this page focuses on Suffolk County, the firm handles hit and run charges in all New York jurisdictions where it practices. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to find out how they can assist you in your locality.
Is a hit and run a criminal offense or a traffic ticket?
In New York, a hit and run can be either a criminal offense or a traffic infraction depending on the circumstances. Leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage is usually a traffic infraction, but if there is injury or death, it becomes a criminal misdemeanor or felony. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can determine how your specific charge is classified and develop a defense strategy accordingly. To learn more, call (888) 437-7747.
Related pages: Suffolk County Traffic Lawyer | Nassau County Traffic Lawyer | Manhattan Traffic Lawyer
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.