Hit and Run Defense Lawyer in Tempe

Leaving the Scene of an Accident / Hit & Run Charges

Often referred to as hit and run, leaving the scene of an auto accident is a criminal offense that may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony in Tempe. The severity of charges and potential penalties that may be imposed will vary depending on the extent of property damage or injury the accident caused as well as other factors.

Making the choice to involve a criminal defense lawyer is important in the face of hit and run charges in the Tempe area. With the proper resources and experience in this field, Tempe hit and run defense lawyer James Novak can offer you the level of legal counsel and representation you need to fight your charges and work toward avoiding the serious penalties that may be imposed if you are convicted.

Penalties for Hit and Run in Tempe

If a driver was driving under the influence (DUI) at the time of the alleged hit and run, this may result in enhanced penalties, as may a second or subsequent offense of this kind. Although specific sentencing may vary depending on these and other factors, a driver accused of hit and run in Tempe may face anywhere from time in county jail all the way to 12.5 years in state prison.

In addition to the jail or prison sentence that may be enforced for a hit and run conviction in Tempe, the driver may face driver's license suspension, heavy fines, victim restitution, probation, community service and mandatory counseling or rehabilitation. The repercussions of a conviction of this kind do not end there. The defendant will also then have to deal with life with a criminal record, something that may affect his or her employment, educational and financial opportunities.

Find out how a competent lawyer can help you avoid the negative consequences of a conviction for leaving the scene of an accident. Contact a Tempe hit and run attorney at our law offices today!