Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Westwood, CA Delivers Dedicated Defense in Lassen County and Across Southern California
If you're involved in a car accident, California law says you have certain responsibilities. One of the most important? Don’t leave the scene—especially if someone is hurt or property is damaged. A “hit and run” happens when a driver causes an accident and then takes off without stopping to share their name, contact info, or insurance. Whether it’s a small fender bender or a major crash, failing to stop and do the right thing can lead to serious legal trouble.
These cases aren’t just traffic tickets. A Westwood hit and run lawyer knows how quickly things can go from bad to worse. Depending on what happened, you could face misdemeanor or felony charges. That means fines, license suspension, jail time—or all three. But it doesn't stop there. A hit and run conviction can also leave a permanent mark on your criminal record. That record can follow you when applying for jobs, trying to rent an apartment, or dealing with auto insurance companies who may raise your rates—or cancel your policy altogether.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we understand how stressful this situation can be. We also know that sometimes, people panic after an accident. Others may not even realize they were involved in a reportable incident. No matter the circumstances, our legal team has the experience and focus to help. We’ve built a strong reputation defending drivers in tough situations just like yours. If you’ve been accused of leaving the scene of an accident, don’t wait. Call our trusted hit and run defense attorney in Westwood, CA who will fight to protect your rights and your future. Contact us today.
Types of Hit and Run Cases We Handle in Westwood, CA
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we bring years of courtroom experience and local insight to every case we take on. Our legal team understands how California’s hit and run laws work—and how prosecutors in Westwood approach these cases. We’ve defended clients in all kinds of situations, from minor mistakes to serious felony charges. If you’re facing allegations of leaving the scene, we’re here to help you understand your options and build a strong defense.
We handle a wide range of hit and run cases in Westwood, including:
- Hit and run with another moving vehicle in Westwood: Leaving the scene after crashing into another driver during traffic.
- Hit and run with a parked car in Westwood: Driving off after hitting an unattended vehicle without leaving your contact information.
- Hit and run with a bicyclist in Westwood: Failing to stop and assist after striking someone on a bike.
- Hit and run with a pedestrian in Westwood: Not stopping to help or provide info after hitting a person walking on or near the road.
- Hit and run with property damage in Westwood: Damaging fences, signs, buildings, or other property and leaving the scene.
- Hit and run fender bender in Westwood: Minor accidents that still carry major legal consequences if you don’t stop.
- Hit and run under the influence in Westwood: Leaving the scene of an accident while also suspected of a DUI.
- Hit and run with serious injuries in Westwood: Accidents where someone is badly hurt and the driver fails to stop and offer help.
- Hit and run resulting in death in Westwood: Accidents that lead to a fatality, where fleeing the scene can lead to felony charges.
- Hit and run with vehicular manslaughter in Westwood: In cases involving death due to reckless or negligent driving, plus leaving the scene.
- And more…We defend against all types of hit and run allegations, no matter how complex or severe.
No matter the details, every case deserves careful attention and a smart defense strategy. Our team takes the time to listen, investigate, and stand up for our clients. If you or someone you care about has been accused of a hit and run in Westwood, we’re here to help from start to finish.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run in Westwood
If you’ve been accused of leaving the scene of an accident, it’s important to understand the serious penalties for a hit and run in California. Even a first-time offense can come with long-term consequences. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we help clients in Westwood fight these charges and reduce the impact on their lives.
Misdemeanor Hit and Run
Misdemeanor charges usually involve property damage but no injuries. Still, the consequences are significant:
- Jail time for a hit and run California: Up to 6 months in county jail
- Hit and run fines: Up to $1,000
- Restitution: You may have to pay for the other person’s damages
- Probation: Supervision and court-mandated conditions for up to 3 years
Felony Hit and Run
Felony charges apply when someone is injured or killed and the driver fails to stop:
- Prison time: Up to 4 years or more, depending on injuries or death
- Substantial fines: $1,000 to $10,000 or more
- Restitution to victims: Full repayment for medical bills, car repairs, and other losses
- Severe probation terms: Strict rules, check-ins, and long-term court oversight
Collateral Consequences
Even after serving time or paying fines, a criminal record from a hit and run can affect nearly every part of your life:
- Driver’s license suspension: You may lose your ability to drive legally
- Higher insurance premiums: Your rates can skyrocket—or your policy might be canceled
- Employment struggles: Some employers won't hire people with certain criminal records
- Lasting damage to reputation: Especially in your community or professional circles
Social Media and Hit and Run Charges in Westwood
You might think your Instagram post or Facebook comment doesn’t matter—but if you’re facing criminal charges, it absolutely does. Investigators and prosecutors can and do check social media to gather evidence. A post showing your car, location, or even a “joke” about an accident could be twisted and used against you.
What to avoid posting:
- Photos of your vehicle, especially after damage
- Comments about being in an accident or leaving the scene
- Messages that could imply guilt, panic, or cover-up
- Location check-ins or timestamps that contradict your legal defense
Best practice is to stay off social media until your case is resolved. If you're unsure, ask your attorney before posting anything. At our firm, we help clients in Westwood avoid mistakes that could hurt their case—even online.
Can Your Hit and Run Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed in Westwood?
Yes—under the right circumstances. Not every hit and run case leads to jail. Depending on the facts, your Westwood hit and run lawyer may be able to reduce or even get the charges dismissed.
Here’s how that might happen:
- Lack of intent: If you didn’t know a crash occurred, it may be possible to get the charges dropped.
- No damage or injury: If the evidence of harm is weak, prosecutors may agree to reduce charges.
- Mistaken identity: You weren’t the driver—or someone else used your car.
- Plea bargaining: In some cases, we negotiate reduced penalties or alternative outcomes like diversion programs.
- Restitution and cooperation: Offering to pay damages and take responsibility can sometimes lead to dropped charges.
No matter how serious the situation feels right now, you have options. Our team looks at every angle, from police reports to witness statements, to build a defense that protects your future.
How The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help
When you're facing a hit and run charge, you need more than just legal advice—you need a game plan. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process. Our goal is to help you understand your rights, fight the charges, and get the best outcome possible.
Here’s what you can expect from our firm:
- Personalized attention and strategic case planning: We take the time to learn the full story behind your case and build a defense that fits your specific situation.
- Proven track record defending clients in California hit and run cases: We've successfully handled a wide range of cases across the state and know what it takes to win.
- Thorough investigation and aggressive defense strategies: We review police reports, gather witness statements, and dig into the details to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Effective negotiation skills in plea bargains and reduced charges: We know how to work with prosecutors to lessen the penalties or negotiate alternatives to jail time.
- Comprehensive understanding of local courts and California criminal law: Our experience in hit and run defense in California gives us an edge when dealing with local judges, prosecutors, and court staff.
From the moment you contact us, you’ll feel the difference that comes with working with a trusted criminal defense attorney who’s focused on your future. We don’t just show up in court—we stand by you, fight hard, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Why Choose an Experienced Hit and Run Defense Attorney in Westwood, CA?
Choosing the right lawyer can mean the difference between jail time and a second chance. When you work with The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney’s hit and run defense team, you're getting a partner who knows how to navigate the system—and who truly cares about the outcome of your case.
We offer:
- Comprehensive assistance for both criminal defense and personal injury matters, ensuring all sides of your case are handled in one place.
- Free consultations, where we’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and lay out your options without pressure.
- Extensive knowledge of California state law, including tricky legal areas like comparative fault, government-related accidents, and insurance company tactics to deny fair compensation.
- The experienced legal support you need to make it through this tough time, reduce your stress, and fight for the best possible result—whether that means protecting your record or getting financial relief.
If you’ve been accused of leaving the scene of an accident, don’t wait to take action. A skilled Westwood hit and run lawyer from our team can help you face the charges head-on and build a solid defense.
About Criminal Hit and Runs in Westwood
Criminal hit and runs are unfortunately not uncommon in Westwood, a busy neighborhood surrounded by high-traffic streets and congested intersections. Areas like Wilshire Boulevard, Westwood Boulevard, and the 405 Freeway ramps see a large number of daily commuters, students from UCLA, tourists, and local residents—all sharing the road. With such a high volume of vehicles, pedestrians, and bikes in one compact area, accidents are more likely. And when they happen, drivers sometimes panic, especially if they're unfamiliar with the law, driving without insurance, or worried about other violations.
If you’ve been charged with a hit and run in this area, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Many people find themselves in this situation due to fear, confusion, or a split-second decision made under stress. Whatever the reason, there is help—and there is hope.
Contact an Experienced Westwood Hit and Run Lawyer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney for a Free Consultation About Your Case
Being accused of a hit and run is a serious matter with lasting consequences. From jail time and fines to a criminal record that can follow you for life, the risks are too high to face alone. That’s why choosing The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney makes a difference. With our proven experience in defending hit and run defense cases, you get legal representation that’s strategic, committed, and centered on your future.
As a hit and run defense attorney, we offer aggressive, confidential, and experienced defense from day one. Our team acts fast to protect your rights, gather facts, and look for ways to reduce or eliminate the charges. Time is critical—acting quickly can make a major impact on how your case is resolved. Don’t wait until it's too late.
Contact us today at 818-330-5198 or use our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Take the first step toward protecting your future with a legal team that knows how to fight—and win.
