Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Calabasas, CA Delivers Dedicated Defense in Los Angeles County and Across Southern California
A hit and run happens when a driver is involved in an accident and leaves the scene without stopping to give their information or help anyone who may be hurt. In California, this is a crime—even if the accident was small or no one got hurt. Whether it's a fender bender or a more serious crash, leaving the scene can bring serious legal trouble. That’s why having a skilled Calabasas hit and run defense lawyer is so important.
Hit and run charges in Calabasas are not something to take lightly. A conviction can lead to big fines, jail time, a suspended license, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. It can also make it harder to get car insurance, find a job, or even keep the one you already have. The law is tough, but you don’t have to face it alone.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we understand how stressful and scary these situations can be. You may have panicked, didn’t know what to do, or made a mistake. Whatever the reason, our team is here to help. We are ready to stand by your side, explain your options, and fight for your future. If you're looking for a trusted hit and run defense attorney in Calabasas, CA, you’ve come to the right place. Contact us today.
Types of Hit and Run Cases We Handle in Calabasas, CA
The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney bring years of experience to defending hit and run cases in Calabasas. Our legal team knows the local laws, court systems, and how to build a strong defense for every unique situation. No matter how complex your case may be, we are prepared to guide you through it.
We handle a wide range of hit and run charges, including:
- Hit and run with another moving vehicle in Calabasas: Leaving the scene after crashing into another car while driving.
- Hit and run with parked car in Calabasas: Driving off after damaging a parked vehicle without leaving contact information.
- Hit and run with bicyclist in Calabasas: Failing to stop after hitting someone on a bicycle.
- Hit and run with a pedestrian in Calabasas: Not staying at the scene after striking a person walking.
- Hit and run with property damage in Calabasas: Damaging buildings, fences, or other property and leaving without reporting.
- Hit and run fender bender in Calabasas: Minor collisions where a driver leaves the scene too soon.
- Hit and run under the influence in Calabasas: Leaving after a crash while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Hit and run with serious injuries in Calabasas: Accidents that result in major injuries where the driver fails to stay and assist.
- Hit and run resulting in death in Calabasas: Leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
- Hit and run with vehicular manslaughter in Calabasas: Charges that involve death caused by reckless or illegal driving followed by fleeing.
We also represent clients in many other hit and run-related cases in Calabasas. Each situation is different, and our team takes the time to look at all the facts before building your defense.
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony hit and run charge, The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney have the knowledge and experience to help. We know what’s at stake—and we’re ready to fight for your rights.
Understanding Hit and Run Charges in Calabasas
In Calabasas and across California, a hit and run happens when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to give their name, contact details, or help if someone is hurt. Under California hit and run laws, these cases fall into two main categories, depending on what happened during the accident.
Misdemeanor Hit and Run – Vehicle Code 20002 VC
A misdemeanor hit and run happens when a driver damages someone else’s property and drives away without identifying themselves. This includes hitting a parked car, damaging a fence, mailbox, or any kind of property. Under Vehicle Code 20002, it doesn’t matter if the damage seems small—if you don’t stop and report it, it’s still a crime.
Felony Hit and Run – Vehicle Code 20001 VC
A felony hit and run is much more serious. Under Vehicle Code 20001, this charge applies if someone is injured or killed and the driver leaves without helping or calling for help. This could include hitting a pedestrian, bicyclist, or another car where someone is badly hurt. Failing to offer aid or even make a 911 call can lead to major penalties.
Common Scenarios That Count as a Hit and Run
Some hit and run cases may seem minor, but they can still lead to criminal charges. Examples include:
- Backing into a parked car and leaving without a note
- Accidentally hitting a bicyclist and driving away
- Clipping a pedestrian in a crosswalk and not stopping
- Crashing into a mailbox, garage, or storefront and leaving
- Fleeing after a crash caused by drunk driving or panic
No matter how small or large the accident may be, leaving the scene puts you at risk under California hit and run laws.
How Voluntary Surrender Can Impact Your Calabasas Hit and Run Case
If you’ve left the scene of an accident and are now feeling scared or regretful, you’re not alone. Many people panic at the moment and don’t know what to do. But turning yourself in—called voluntary surrender—can often make a big difference in how your case is handled.
Voluntarily coming forward shows that you’re taking responsibility. Prosecutors and judges may see this as a good sign, especially if no one was hurt or you acted quickly. It might help reduce charges, avoid jail time, or lead to better plea deals.
If you're considering this option, it’s critical to talk to a lawyer first. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we can guide you through how to do this the right way, while protecting your rights.
Common Defenses Against Hit and Run Charges in Calabasas
When facing hit and run charges, there are often strong defenses that can help you. Every case is different, but some of the most effective legal defense strategies include:
- Lack of awareness: You didn’t know an accident happened, especially in low-impact cases like a fender bender or brushing a parked car.
- Mistaken identity or wrongful accusation: Someone else may have used your car, or witnesses misidentified you. This is called a mistaken identity defense.
- No damage or injury occurred: If no harm was done, the case may not meet the legal standard of a hit and run.
- Emergency situation: You had a valid reason to leave the scene, such as needing immediate medical help or escaping danger.
- Voluntary surrender after initial panic: You left the scene out of fear but came forward shortly after. This can help when fighting a hit and run charge.
Each of these defenses for hit and run charges depend on the facts of your case. That's why speaking with an attorney right away is so important.
Early action can help preserve evidence, correct misunderstandings, and allow your lawyer to speak on your behalf. Waiting too long can make your situation worse, but early help gives you the best chance of a positive outcome.
How The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help
Facing a hit and run charge in California can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney’s hit and run defense team are here to protect your rights, explain your options, and help you make smart choices during this stressful time.
Here’s how we can help:
- Personalized attention and strategic case planning: We treat every client like an individual, not a case number. Your defense plan is built around your unique story.
- Proven track record defending clients in California hit and run cases: Our team has successfully handled many cases just like yours.
- Thorough investigation and aggressive defense strategies: We gather all the facts, challenge the evidence, and fight hard in and out of court.
- Effective negotiation skills in plea bargains and reduced charges: We know how to work with prosecutors to get you the best possible outcome.
- Comprehensive understanding of local courts and California criminal law: With years of experience in the area, we understand how Calabasas courts operate.
If you’ve been charged with a hit and run, you need a trusted criminal defense attorney who knows how to handle these cases. We’re committed to giving you the strong support and legal guidance you deserve. When you need smart, proven help with hit and run defense in Calabasas. CA, our firm is ready to stand with you every step of the way.
Why Choose an Experienced Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Calabasas, CA?
When your future is on the line, you need someone who truly understands what you’re facing. Choosing our experienced hit and run defense attorney can make all the difference between a bad outcome and a second chance.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we offer more than just legal advice—we offer real support:
- Comprehensive assistance for both personal injury and criminal defense cases, so you don’t have to juggle multiple lawyers.
- Free consultations where we take the time to learn all the details of your case and walk you through your options.
- Extensive knowledge of California state law, including how to deal with comparative fault, cases involving government vehicles, and unfair insurance practices.
- Experienced legal support to guide you through the difficult legal process and work toward the best possible outcome.
- Smart, proven strategies for building strong defenses or helping victims recover fair compensation from all responsible parties.
We don’t just defend you—we give you a voice. We work hard to protect your freedom, your finances, and your future. Whether you're dealing with a misdemeanor or facing a more serious charge, a Calabasas hit and run defense lawyer from our team will stand by you with confidence and care.
About Criminal Hit and Runs in Calabasas
Criminal hit and runs in Calabasas often occur on busy roads like the 101 Freeway, Mulholland Highway, and Parkway Calabasas. These areas have high traffic volumes, complex intersections, and limited visibility in some places, making accidents more likely. In many cases, drivers panic after a collision, especially if they fear they may have broken the law or caused injury. This fear can lead them to flee the scene without thinking about the consequences.
If this has happened to you, you’re not alone. Our Calabasas hit and run defense lawyer is here to fight for your defense. Many good people make poor decisions in stressful moments. What matters now is how you respond—and getting legal help fast is the first step in turning things around.
Contact an Experienced Calabasas Hit and Run Defense Lawyer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney for a Free Consultation About Your Case
A hit and run charge is serious. You could be facing jail time, a permanent criminal record, high fines, and long-term effects on your job, insurance, and future. But with the right legal team on your side, you don’t have to face it alone. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we understand what’s at stake, and we know how to fight for you.
Our team offers personalized, aggressive, and confidential legal support to help you through this difficult time. As a trusted hit and run defense attorney we’ve helped many clients avoid harsh penalties and start fresh. We act quickly, build strong defenses, and protect your rights at every turn. The sooner you contact us, the more options we have to help you get the best outcome.
Don’t wait. Call us today at 818-330-5198 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Let us put our experience to work for you.
