Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Culver City, CA Delivers Dedicated Defense in Los Angeles County and Across Southern California
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming. But if someone leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or help anyone who may be hurt, they could be charged with a crime called hit and run. In California, this offense is taken very seriously—whether the accident caused property damage or injuries. If you’re facing this kind of charge, it’s important to act fast. A skilled Culver City hit and run defense lawyer can make all the difference in protecting your rights.
In Culver City, even a minor fender bender followed by leaving the scene could lead to a misdemeanor or felony charge. The consequences can go far beyond court fines or jail time. A conviction can hurt your driving record, raise your insurance rates, and even affect your ability to get a job. That’s why having strong legal representation is critical.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we know how much is on the line. We’ve helped many people in Culver City who were charged with hit and run—and we fight hard to protect their futures. Whether the charge is based on a misunderstanding, fear, or a lack of evidence, we’re here to build your defense and stand by your side every step of the way.
If you’ve been accused of leaving the scene of an accident, don’t wait. Contact us, your experienced hit and run defense attorneys in Culver City, CA who understands what you’re up against—and how to help.
Types of Hit and Run Cases We Handle in Culver City, CA
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we bring years of experience and a deep understanding of California’s hit and run laws to every case we take on. We know how Culver City courts handle these charges, and we use our local knowledge to fight for the best possible outcome for each client.
No matter how complex or serious the charge, we’re prepared to defend you. Our team handles a wide range of hit and run cases in Culver City, including:
- Hit and run with another moving vehicle in Culver City: Leaving the scene after hitting another driver in motion.
- Hit and run with parked car in Culver City: Failing to stop and provide information after damaging a parked vehicle.
- Hit and run with bicyclist in Culver City: Leaving the scene of an accident involving a bicycle rider.
- Hit and run with pedestrian in Culver City: Not stopping to assist or report after striking a pedestrian.
- Hit and run with property damage in Culver City: Causing damage to property like fences, mailboxes, or signs and driving away.
- Hit and run fender bender in Culver City: Leaving after a low-impact crash without exchanging information.
- Hit and run under the influence in Culver City: Leaving an accident scene while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Hit and run with serious injuries in Culver City: Fleeing the scene when someone is hurt in the crash.
- Hit and run resulting in death in Culver City: Facing charges after a fatal accident where the driver left the scene.
- Hit and run with vehicular manslaughter in Culver City: Serious charges involving a death caused by reckless driving and fleeing.
And more… No matter the charge, we are ready to investigate your case, build a solid defense, and stand by you in court.
Understanding Hit and Run Charges in Culver City
Being charged with a hit and run in Culver City can be confusing and scary. That’s why it’s important to understand how California hit and run laws work. These laws break hit and run offenses into two main types: misdemeanors and felonies. The type of charge depends on what happened during the accident.
Misdemeanor Hit and Run – Vehicle Code 20002 VC
A misdemeanor hit and run happens when someone is involved in a crash that only causes damage to someone else’s property—and then leaves the scene without providing their contact or insurance information. Under Vehicle Code 20002, this could include:
- Bumping a parked car and driving off
- Damaging a fence or mailbox and not reporting it
- Hitting another vehicle in a minor crash and leaving without exchanging information
Even though no one was hurt, a misdemeanor hit and run is still a criminal offense that can lead to fines, a driver’s license suspension, and even jail time.
Felony hit and run – Vehicle Code 20001 VC
A felony hit and run is much more serious. This happens when someone is in an accident that causes injury or death, and then leaves the scene without helping the injured person or calling for help. Under Vehicle Code 20001, the law requires drivers to stop, offer aid if possible, and give their name and contact information.
Examples of this might include:
- Hitting a pedestrian or cyclist and not stopping
- Fleeing after causing an injury in a traffic crash
- Leaving the scene of a fatal accident without calling 911
If you’re charged under this law, you could be facing prison time, heavy fines, and a felony record.
Common Scenarios That Lead to Hit and Run Charges
Many people don’t realize that even small accidents can lead to hit and run charges in Culver City. These situations can include:
- Accidents with parked vehicles
- Crashes involving pedestrians or bicyclists
- Collisions that result in property damage
- Fender benders where no one appears to be hurt—but someone leaves the scene anyway
Even if the accident seemed minor, if you leave without taking the right steps, police may still pursue a charge under California hit and run laws.
How Voluntary Surrender Can Impact Your Culver City Hit and Run Case
If you left the scene of an accident but are now ready to come forward, doing so voluntarily can make a big difference. Voluntary surrender shows responsibility and remorse, and it may help reduce the penalties you face.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we’ve helped clients in Culver City turn themselves in the right way—by contacting police with the help of legal counsel. This step can:
- Help show that you didn’t intend to flee
- Improve your chances of a lighter sentence
- Make you look more cooperative to the court
- Support your case in future plea deals or negotiations
Don’t go through this alone. If you’re thinking about turning yourself in after a hit and run, call our office first. We’ll guide you through every step and protect your rights.
Can Your Hit and Run Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed in Culver City?
Yes—depending on the details of your case, hit and run charges can sometimes be reduced or even dismissed. That’s where our experience as local defense attorneys comes in.
We examine every part of your case, looking for options to:
- Challenge the evidence: Maybe you weren’t driving, or someone else took your car.
- Prove lack of knowledge: You may not have realized there was damage or injury.
- Negotiate a civil compromise: In some misdemeanor cases, paying for the damages can lead to dropped charges.
- Plea bargain for lesser charges: In many situations, we can work with the prosecutor to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor, or avoid jail time altogether.
Our legal team will explain your options and help you make the best decision based on your specific situation. Every case is different, and we fight for the most favorable outcome possible.
How The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help
When you're facing a hit and run charge in California, the stakes are high. That’s why choosing the right legal team matters. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we focus on giving every client personal attention, smart legal strategy, and strong courtroom representation. Our goal is simple: to protect your rights and fight for the best outcome in your case.
Here’s what sets our team apart in hit and run defense California cases:
- Personalized attention and strategic case planning: We take time to understand your side of the story and build a defense that fits your unique circumstances.
- Proven track record defending clients in California hit and run: We’ve helped many individuals avoid convictions, reduce charges, or win dismissals.
- Thorough investigation and aggressive defense strategies: We analyze every detail of the case, from traffic camera footage to witness statements, and find the weaknesses in the prosecution's story.
- Effective negotiation skills in plea bargains and reduced charges: When appropriate, we work with prosecutors to secure lighter penalties or alternative resolutions.
- Comprehensive understanding of local courts and California criminal law: We know how the system works in Culver City, and we use that knowledge to your advantage.
Why Choose an Experienced Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Culver City, CA?
Not every law firm understands the local court system the way we do. Hiring a Culver City hit and run defense lawyer from our team means you’ll have someone who knows what you’re up against—and knows how to fight it.
Some of the unique benefits of working with our firm include:
- Comprehensive legal support: Whether your case involves criminal charges or related personal injury claims, we’re prepared to handle it all.
- Free consultations: We’ll review the facts of your case at no cost and help you understand your options before you make any big decisions.
- Deep knowledge of California state law: We can take on even the most complex cases, including those involving comparative fault, government entities, or tricky insurance claims.
- Compassionate legal support through tough times: We’re here to guide you through the legal process and stand up for your rights at every stage.
- Smart strategies that get results: Whether you’re looking to avoid jail, keep your record clean, or protect your financial future, we build strong cases aimed at the best possible outcome.
Choosing the right Culver City hit and run defense lawyer isn’t just about finding someone with a law degree—it’s about finding a trusted partner who will fight for your future. That’s exactly what we offer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney hit and run defense team. Let us help you take back control of your life after a hit and run charge.
About Criminal Hit and Runs in Culver City
Criminal hit and runs are unfortunately common in Culver City, especially in busy areas like Venice Boulevard, Washington Boulevard, and the intersections near Culver City High School and the Expo Line. These areas see high traffic volume, distracted driving, and frequent pedestrian and cyclist activity—factors that contribute to a higher risk of accidents. In the chaos and stress that can follow a crash, some drivers panic and leave the scene, not realizing the serious legal consequences that may follow.
If you’ve been charged with a hit and run, it’s important to know this: you are not alone. Many people facing these charges never intended to commit a crime. Whether it was fear, confusion, or a misunderstanding that caused you to leave the scene, there is help available.
Contact an Experienced Culver City 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 a serious matter. A conviction can impact your record, your job, and your future. But you don’t have to face it alone. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we offer experienced, confidential, and aggressive representation to clients in Culver City and beyond. We understand the stress of facing criminal charges—and we know how to fight them.
Our team provides honest advice, clear guidance, and tough defense strategies. We move fast to protect your rights and begin building your case. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have to improve the outcome. An experienced Culver City hit and run defense lawyer can work to get your charges reduced—or even dismissed—by identifying weaknesses in the evidence or negotiating directly with prosecutors.
Don't wait to get the help you need. Contact us now for a free consultation. Call us today at 818-330-5198 or use our secure online contact form to schedule your appointment. Let The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney put their experience to work for you—before it’s too late.
