Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Altadena, CA Delivers Dedicated Defense in Los Angeles County and Across Southern California
A hit and run happens when a driver leaves the scene of a crash without stopping to give their name, contact information, or insurance details. Under California law, this is a crime—even if the accident was minor or no one was hurt. Whether it’s a fender bender or something more serious, driving away without reporting it can lead to criminal charges.
In Altadena, hit and run cases are taken very seriously. You could face heavy fines, jail time, a suspended license, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. A conviction might also increase your insurance rates or hurt your chances of finding or keeping a job. The impact on your future can be huge—even for a first offense.
That’s why you need someone who knows how to fight for you. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, our Altadena hit and run defense lawyer has years of experience defending people just like you against hit and run accusations in Altadena. We understand the law, the courts, and what it takes to protect your rights.
If you're being investigated or have already been charged, don’t wait. Speak with a skilled hit and run defense attorney who will stand by your side and help you move forward with confidence. Contact us today.
Types of Hit and Run Cases We Handle in Altadena, CA
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we’ve helped countless clients in Altadena navigate hit and run charges. Our Altadena hit and run defense lawyer understands the local courts, the prosecutors, and the laws that apply to these cases. We’ve built strong defenses for people from all walks of life—drivers who panicked, misunderstood the situation, or were falsely accused. With years of experience in hit and run defense litigation in Altadena, we’re equipped to handle cases both minor and severe.
We defend clients against many types of hit and run charges, including:
- Hit and run with another moving vehicle in Altadena: Leaving the scene after hitting a moving car in Altadena.
- Hit and run with parked car in Altadena: Driving off after hitting a parked vehicle without leaving your information in Altadena.
- Hit and run with bicyclist in Altadena: Failing to stop after a crash involving a bicycle rider in Altadena.
- Hit and run with pedestrian in Altadena: Leaving the scene after striking a person on foot in Altadena.
- Hit and run with property damage in Altadena: Causing damage to property like a fence or mailbox and not reporting it in Altadena.
- Hit and run fender bender in Altadena: A minor accident where one driver leaves without sharing contact information in Altadena.
- Hit and run under the influence in Altadena: Fleeing the scene while suspected of a DUI in Altadena.
- Hit and run with serious injuries in Altadena: Leaving the scene after an accident that caused injury to someone in Altadena.
- Hit and run resulting in death in Altadena: A fatal accident where the driver does not remain at the scene in Altadena.
- Hit and run with vehicular manslaughter in Altadena: Being accused of causing death and failing to stop in Altadena.
- And more…
We handle all types of hit and run cases, no matter how complex, in Altadena.
Every case comes with its own challenges. That’s why we treat each one with care and urgency. Whether your case involves injury, property damage, or just confusion about what happened, we’ll fight to protect your rights and work toward the best outcome.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run in Altadena
If you're found guilty of a hit and run in Altadena, the consequences can be serious—even life-changing. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, the law in California doesn ’t take these cases lightly. Understanding the penalties for a hit and run in California is the first step in protecting yourself.
Misdemeanor Hit and Run Penalties
If no one was hurt and the damage was only to property, the hit and run charge is usually a misdemeanor. Even then, the punishment can be severe:
- Up to 6 months in jail time for a hit and run California
- Fines of up to $1,000 (hit and run fines)
- Restitution to cover damage or repair costs
- Probation and possible community service
Felony hit and run Penalties
When someone is injured or killed, the charge may be upgraded to a felony. These penalties are far more serious and can include:
- Up to 4 years in state prison
- Thousands of dollars in fines and hit and run restitution
- Long-term or strict probation
- A permanent criminal record from hit and run charges
Collateral Consequences
In addition to legal punishment, there are other long-term consequences:
- Driver’s license suspension
- Higher auto insurance premiums
- Trouble finding work or passing background checks
That’s why hiring a strong defense team matters. The sooner you act, the more options you may have to reduce or avoid these penalties.
How Does a Hit and Run Conviction in Altadena Affect Your Auto Insurance?
One of the most painful and lasting effects of a hit and run conviction is what happens to your insurance. If you’re found guilty, your insurer may treat you as a high-risk driver—even if the accident was minor.
Here’s what to expect:
- Your insurance premiums may skyrocket, sometimes doubling or tripling.
- Some companies may cancel your coverage entirely, especially after a felony conviction.
- It could be difficult to find a new policy, and the ones available may offer minimal coverage at a high cost.
- A criminal record from hit and run charges will likely stay on your driving history for years, limiting your options.
If your policy included accident forgiveness, that protection likely won’t apply to a criminal case. Protecting your driving record is one more reason why hiring the right lawyer is so important after a hit and run arrest.
Mistaken Identity and False Accusations in Altadena Hit and Run Cases: Your Defense Options
Not everyone charged with a hit and run is guilty. In fact, many people are wrongly accused due to confusion, stress, or bad information. In a busy place like Altadena, these cases often rely on eyewitness claims or unclear surveillance footage—which can lead to mistaken identity.
Some examples of false accusations include:
- A witness gets the wrong license plate number.
- The driver was not aware an accident even happened.
- Someone else was driving your car without permission.
- The vehicle damage was already there from a previous incident.
A skilled defense lawyer knows how to find the weak points in the evidence. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we investigate everything—from camera footage to vehicle records—to build your case. If you've been falsely accused or the facts don’t add up, we’ll work hard to prove your innocence and clear your name.
How The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help
If you’re facing a hit and run charge in Altadena, you need a team that knows how to fight back—and win. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we offer focused, hands-on legal support for every client. We don’t just handle cases—we build strong, personalized defenses that give you the best shot at a positive outcome.
Here’s what makes our team stand out in hit and run defense in California:
- Personalized attention and strategic case planning: We treat you like a person, not a case number. Your defense is built around your situation, your goals, and your future.
- Proven track record defending clients in California hit and run cases: We’ve helped many people avoid jail time, reduce charges, or get their cases dismissed entirely.
- Thorough investigation and aggressive defense strategies: We dig deep—examining evidence, challenging the facts, and building a solid defense from every angle.
- Effective negotiation skills in plea bargains and reduced charges: When needed, we work with prosecutors to reduce the impact on your record and your life.
- Comprehensive understanding of local courts and California criminal law: We know how Altadena’s courts work, and we know how to use that to your advantage.
When your freedom and future are on the line, trust a trusted criminal defense attorney to fight for you. With The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney hit and run defense team by your side, you’ll never have to face the legal process alone.
Why Choose an Experienced Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Altadena, CA at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney for Your Case?
If you’re looking for an Altadena hit and run defense lawyer, you want more than just experience—you want a team that’s fully committed to protecting your future. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we take that responsibility seriously. We know how complicated and stressful a hit and run case can be. That’s why we give every client the respect, attention, and legal power they deserve.
Here’s what makes us different:
- A focus on solutions to complex legal issues that impact your future. We look beyond just winning your case—we work to protect your long-term goals.
- Client-centered legal service. You’ll never be left wondering what’s happening with your case. We keep you informed and involved at every step.
- Strategic case planning and defense preparation. Every move we make is part of a smart, well-thought-out strategy built around the facts.
- Clear, responsive communication for your peace of mind. We explain your rights, your options, and what comes next—without the legal jargon.
- A comprehensive approach to legal representation. From court appearances to paperwork to negotiation, we handle it all so you can focus on moving forward.
When your reputation, license, and freedom are at stake, don’t settle for less than a legal team that’s truly in your corner.
About Criminal Hit and Runs in Altadena
Altadena sees its fair share of hit and run incidents, especially along busy stretches like Lake Avenue, Lincoln Avenue, and near the 210 Freeway exits. These roads see high traffic, narrow lanes, and limited visibility in some spots—conditions that can lead to accidents. When a driver panics after a crash, especially one involving only minor damage, they may leave the scene without thinking of the legal consequences.
But leaving doesn’t mean you're a criminal—it means you need help. Many people accused of a hit and run in Altadena have no prior record and simply made a mistake. If that sounds like you, you're not alone. There is a path forward, and it starts with understanding your rights and speaking to the right defense lawyer.
Contact an Experienced Altadena Hit and Run Defense Lawyer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney for a Free Consultation About Your Case
Being charged with a hit and run is serious. A conviction can bring jail time, heavy fines, a suspended license, and a permanent criminal record. But with the right legal help, there’s a chance to reduce or even dismiss those charges. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we offer aggressive, private, and experienced legal representation for people just like you—people who need real solutions, fast.
Our team is ready to listen, answer your questions, and start building your defense from the ground up. We know how to navigate California law and fight for outcomes that protect your future. If you're looking for a hit and run defense attorney in Altadena, CA, don't wait to get help. The sooner we can get involved, the more we can do to protect you.
Call 818-330-5198 now or use our secure online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Your future matters—and we’re here to fight for it.
