We help people in their teens and twenties navigate hit and run charges in the criminal justice system. If you or a loved one has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Cherokee County, GA, or any of the surrounding areas, contact our office immediately to get help.
Hit and Run Charges in Cherokee County
What Georgia Law Says About Hit and Run
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270), drivers involved in accidents have specific legal obligations. When an accident occurs that results in injury, death, or vehicle damage, you must:
- Immediately stop your vehicle at the scene or as close as possible
- Provide your name, address, and vehicle registration number to the other party
- Show your driver’s license when requested
- Render reasonable assistance to anyone injured
- Contact emergency services if someone is unconscious or unable to communicate
Failing to fulfill these obligations can result in hit and run charges, which range from misdemeanors to serious felonies depending on the circumstances.
Many young drivers don’t realize that even momentary panic after a minor accident can lead to serious legal consequences if they leave the scene. What might seem like a split-second decision can result in charges far more serious than those from the accident itself.
Types of Hit and Run Charges
Hit-and-run charges in Georgia generally fall into two categories:
Misdemeanor Hit and Run
- Involves accidents with only property damage or non-serious injuries
- Punishable by up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $1,000
- Carries a mandatory license suspension
Felony Hit and Run
- Involves accidents resulting in serious injury or death
- Punishable by 1-5 years in prison
- Results in longer license suspension periods
- Has more significant implications for your record
For young adults, these charges can be particularly concerning as they come at a time when you’re establishing your independence and planning your future. The immediate penalties are just the beginning of the potential impact.
Facing hit and run charges in Cherokee County or one of the neighboring areas? Time is not on your side. It’s time to act now. Contact us today.
Common Scenarios Leading to Hit and Run Charges
Young drivers often find themselves facing hit and run charges in situations like:
- Panic Responses: Many young drivers experience momentary panic after an accident and leave the scene without thinking through the consequences.
- Misunderstanding Legal Obligations: Some drivers don’t realize that they need to stop even for minor accidents with seemingly no damage.
- Fear of Consequences: Concerns about other traffic violations (like driving without a license or under the influence) can lead to poor decisions to leave the scene.
- Accidents in Parking Lots: Many people don’t realize that hitting a parked car requires you to make reasonable efforts to locate the owner or leave your information.
- Miscommunication at the Scene: Sometimes drivers believe they’ve fulfilled their obligations but haven’t provided all the required information.
Our Team’s Approach to Hit and Run Defense
When you work with our Cherokee County hit and run defense team, we start by learning:
- Where you are in life right now
- What your plans are for your future
- Your specific goals for this case
- How this situation could impact your life
Our defense strategies for hit and run cases often include:
Challenging the Evidence
- Was there sufficient evidence that you were the driver?
- Can the prosecution prove you knew an accident occurred?
- Were there any issues with how evidence was collected?
Examining Mitigating Circumstances
- Were there safety concerns that led to leaving the scene?
- Did you return to the scene or report the accident later?
- Were there circumstances that explain your actions?
Negotiating Alternative Resolutions
- Reduction to a lesser charge
- Pre-trial diversion programs
- First offender options to protect your record
How We Help Young Drivers Facing Hit and Run Charges
Our approach to defending your hit and run case entirely depends on your goals.
While some law firms will tell you they have a particular way of handling every case, we won’t do that. The strategy that is developed for your case must be in alignment with your short-term and long-term goals.
If we determine that it makes sense for you and our team to work together, then we will spend time getting to know and understand your goals.
Our legal team understands the unique challenges young adults face when charged with hit and run. We provide:
- Thorough Case Investigation: We conduct a detailed investigation of the accident and the allegations against you, gathering evidence and identifying potential witnesses to build your defense.
- Strategic Defense Planning: Based on the specific circumstances of your case and your personal goals, we develop a customized defense strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome.
- Skilled Negotiation: Our attorneys are experienced negotiators who know how to work with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or secure alternative sentencing options.
- Clear Communication: We explain the legal process in straightforward terms, keeping you informed every step of the way and making sure you understand your options.
- Future-Focused Representation: Our approach prioritizes not just the immediate case outcome, but how that outcome will affect your life moving forward.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Hit and Run Defense
Our firm focuses specifically on defending people in their teens and twenties because we understand the unique challenges they face in the legal system. When it comes to hit and run charges, clients choose us because:
- We understand the factors that commonly lead young people to make split-second decisions in stressful situations
- We have specific experience with Cherokee County courts and prosecutors
- We recognize that young people deserve second chances
- We develop personalized strategies based on each client’s unique goals
- We consider how the case affects your current situation and future plans
Take the Next Step — Learn How We Can Help With Your Hit and Run Case
If you or someone you care about is facing hit and run charges in Cherokee County, contact our legal team to see if we can help. Meet with a member of our team to learn what your best next steps are.
The prosecution is already building their case. Don’t wait to get help. Take the next step to protect your future. Call our office now to get started.
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