Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Tarzana, CA Delivers Dedicated Defense in Los Angeles County and Across Southern California
If you’ve been accused of leaving the scene of an accident, you’re likely feeling scared, confused, and unsure of what comes next. In California, a “hit and run” offense means leaving the scene of a car accident without giving your information or helping anyone who may be hurt. Even if the damage was minor, leaving the scene can lead to serious trouble. Whether it was a simple mistake or a misunderstanding, the consequences of a hit and run charge can follow you for years. If you’re dealing with this kind of situation, our skilled Tarzana hit and run defense lawyer can make a big difference.
Hit and run charges can lead to more than just court appearances. They can result in a criminal record, a suspended license, higher insurance costs, and even trouble finding a job. It’s not just about fines or jail time — your future is on the line. That’s why it’s important to have a legal team that understands how these cases work and knows how to protect your rights.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we know how stressful and confusing this time can be. Our team has years of experience helping people just like you. We work hard to get the best possible outcome, whether that means reducing charges, avoiding jail, or even getting your case dismissed. When you need a hit and run defense attorney in Tarzana, CA, we're here to stand by your side every step of the way. Contact us today.
Types of Hit and Run Cases We Handle in Tarzana, CA
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we bring years of focused experience to hit and run defense cases. Our team understands how these charges are handled in the Tarzana court system and how to build strong defenses for our clients. We know the local laws, the prosecutors, and what it takes to protect your rights. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a serious felony charge, we’re ready to help.
We represent clients in all types of hit and run cases, including:
- Hit and run with another moving vehicle in Tarzana: Leaving the scene after hitting another driver in motion.
- Hit and run with parked car in Tarzana: Accidents involving unattended or parked vehicles.
- Hit and run with a bicyclist in Tarzana: Crashes involving cyclists where the driver fails to stop or report.
- Hit and run with a pedestrian in Tarzana: Failing to stop after striking someone on foot.
- Hit and run with property damage in Tarzana: Damaging fences, mailboxes, or other property and leaving the scene.
- Hit and run fender bender in Tarzana: Minor collisions that can still result in charges if you don’t report the incident.
- Hit and run under the influence in Tarzana: Fleeing the scene while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Hit and run with serious injuries in Tarzana: Leaving after causing significant harm to others.
- Hit and run resulting in death in Tarzana: Serious cases where someone dies as a result of the crash.
- Hit and run with vehicular manslaughter in Tarzana: Cases involving a fatal crash and a hit and run charge together.
- And more… No matter the type of hit and run charge, we’re here to help.
We understand that every case is different. No matter the details of your situation, we’ll take the time to listen, explain your options, and fight for the best result possible. If you need help from an experienced legal team that knows how to handle complex hit and run cases, The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney is here for you.
Understanding Hit and Run Charges in Tarzana
If you’ve been involved in a crash and left the scene, you might be facing charges under California hit and run laws. These laws are strict, and the penalties can be serious. Understanding the difference between misdemeanor and felony charges can help you see what you’re up against — and how a lawyer can help protect your rights.
Two Main Types of Hit and Run Charges in California
Misdemeanor Hit and Run (Vehicle Code 20002 VC)
This applies when there is only property damage — such as hitting a parked car, fence, or mailbox — and you leave the scene without giving your name, contact information, or insurance details. Even if the damage seems minor, failing to report it can lead to charges under Vehicle Code 20002 for a misdemeanor hit and run.
Felony Hit and Run (Vehicle Code 20001 VC)
A felony hit and run is much more serious. This charge applies when someone is hurt or killed and the driver leaves the scene without stopping to help the injured person or give their information. According to Vehicle Code 20001, it doesn’t matter who caused the crash — leaving the scene is the crime.
Common Situations That Can Lead to a Hit and Run Charge
These are everyday scenarios that can still result in legal trouble:
- Hitting a parked vehicle and leaving without a note
- Bumping into a pedestrian or cyclist and driving off
- Causing property damage (like to a mailbox or fence) and not reporting it
- Getting into a minor accident and panicking or assuming it was “no big deal”
- Leaving the scene of a crash because of fear or confusion
Even if you didn’t mean to cause harm, these actions can lead to charges under California law. That’s why it’s so important to speak with a defense attorney as soon as possible.
How Voluntary Surrender Can Impact Your Tarzana Hit and Run Case
If you left the scene of an accident and are now considering turning yourself in, you’re not alone — and it might actually help your case. Voluntarily going to the police after a hit and run shows responsibility. In some situations, it can lead to reduced charges or lighter penalties.
Voluntary surrender gives your lawyer more room to negotiate with prosecutors. They can present you in a better light, especially if no one was seriously hurt, or if this is your first offense. If you're thinking about coming forward after a hit and run in Tarzana, it’s important to do so with legal help. That way, your surrender can be handled carefully and smartly.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we’ve helped many clients take this step and avoid the worst consequences. We can guide you through the process and protect your rights every step of the way.
Common Defenses Against Hit and Run Charges in Tarzana
Just because you've been accused doesn’t mean you’re automatically guilty. There are several strong defenses for hit and run charges that may apply to your case, depending on the facts. Here's how a Tarzana hit and run defense lawyer may fight the charges:
- Lack of awareness or knowledge: You didn’t realize you hit anything or anyone.
- Mistaken identity or wrongful accusation: Someone else was driving, or you're being blamed for something you didn’t do (mistaken identity defense).
- No damage or injury occurred: If there was no harm, the case may not qualify as a hit and run.
- Emergency situation: You left because of a medical issue, threat, or other urgent reason.
- Voluntary surrender: Coming forward after the fact can reduce the severity of charges and help your defense.
Every case is unique. That’s why fighting a hit and run charge should always start with a full review of the situation by a knowledgeable defense attorney. The sooner you reach out for help, the better. Early action allows your lawyer to start gathering evidence, talking to witnesses, and building strong legal defense strategies.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we know how to handle these cases with care, speed, and precision. Don’t wait until it’s too late — get a team behind you that knows what to do.
How The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help
When you're facing a hit and run charge, having the right legal team on your side can make all the difference. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we offer real solutions for real people dealing with tough situations. We know how stressful a criminal case can be, especially one involving a hit and run. That’s why we take the time to understand your story and fight hard to protect your future.
Here’s how we help our clients in hit and run defense California cases:
- Personalized attention and strategic case planning: We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every case gets a custom plan based on your needs.
- Proven track record defending clients in California hit and run cases: We’ve successfully helped many people avoid harsh penalties or get their charges dropped.
- Thorough investigation and aggressive defense strategies: We dig into every detail and use all available tools to build the strongest case possible.
- Effective negotiation skills: We work hard to reduce charges or reach plea deals that avoid jail time when possible.
- Comprehensive understanding of local courts and California criminal law: We know how things work in Tarzana, and that local knowledge can give you an edge.
When you choose The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney’s hit and run defense, you're choosing a team that takes your case seriously. We are committed to protecting your rights and your reputation every step of the way.
Why Choose an Experienced Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Tarzana, CA?
A hit and run charge can change your life in an instant. That’s why it’s so important to have a smart, experienced legal team by your side — not just any lawyer, but one who knows the system inside and out. A Tarzana hit and run defense lawyer from our office is ready to stand up for you and fight for the best outcome.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Diligent, conscientious investigation and representation: We treat every case with care, making sure nothing is missed.
- Multilingual counsel: Language should never stop you from getting justice. We speak your language so we can fully understand your story and explain your options.
- Aggressive defense: We begin working your case even before it’s filed, pushing back hard to protect your rights from the start.
- Personalized experience: We see you as more than just a case number. We work to show the court who you really are — not just what’s written in the police report.
- Thorough strategy and clear communication: We plan every move carefully and keep you informed so you never feel lost or left behind.
Choosing a hit and run defense attorney isn’t just about finding someone with a license — it’s about finding someone who truly cares. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we’re ready to be that team for you.
About Criminal Hit and Runs in Tarzana
Criminal hit and runs happen more often in Tarzana than many people think. Busy streets like Ventura Boulevard, Reseda Boulevard, and the 101 Freeway see heavy traffic day and night. With so many cars, cyclists, and pedestrians in one area, accidents are more likely — and when people panic, they sometimes make the mistake of leaving the scene. High traffic, pressure, and confusion can all lead to situations where drivers act without thinking.
But if you're facing hit and run charges, you're not alone. Many good people find themselves in these difficult situations. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we understand that one moment can change everything — and we’re here to help you take back control of your future.
Contact an Experienced Tarzana Hit and Run Defense Lawyer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney for a Free Consultation About Your Case
A hit and run charge in California is a serious matter. You could be facing steep fines, a damaged record, even jail time. The stakes are high, but so are the chances of a better outcome — with the right legal help. The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney offer strong legal defense, clear guidance, and years of experience helping people through situations just like yours. Our team knows how to handle both misdemeanor and felony cases, and we act fast to protect your rights.
We offer confidential, experienced, and aggressive representation for every client. Whether your case involves property damage or serious injury, we work quickly and thoroughly to build a strong defense. Acting fast is key. The sooner you reach out, the more options we have to help you. Don’t wait and risk losing time that could make a difference in your case.
Contact a hit and run defense attorney today for a free consultation. Call us at 818-330-5198 or use our secure online form to get started. We’re ready to fight for you — and help you move forward.
