Hit and Run Lawyer Howard County, MD

When a driver leaves the scene of an accident in Howard County, the consequences extend far beyond a traffic ticket. Maryland law treats hit and run—formally known as leaving the scene of an accident—as a serious matter that can bring criminal charges, license sanctions, and points on your driving record. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team represent individuals facing hit-and-run allegations in Howard County, including cases heard at the District Court of Maryland for Howard County in Ellicott City. Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Howard County communities such as Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, and Clarksville. The firm brings extensive combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel, including a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney who prosecuted traffic and criminal cases before joining the firm. Whether you stand accused of leaving the scene after a property-damage collision or a more serious injury-related incident, we work to protect your record, your driving privileges, and your future. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

On This Page

What Hit and Run Means in Howard County

Under Maryland’s traffic laws, a driver involved in an accident must stop at the scene, provide their information, and render reasonable assistance. Failing to do so can result in charges ranging from a traffic violation to a criminal offense, depending on whether the accident involved property damage, personal injury, or a fatality. In Howard County, these cases are heard in the District Court of Maryland for Howard County, located at 3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043. The court has jurisdiction over most initial appearances and contested hearings. If a defendant demands a jury trial, the case transfers to the Howard County Circuit Court.

Because the legal stakes are high, anyone cited for leaving the scene should understand the difference between the types of charges. A property-damage-only hit and run is generally a misdemeanor, while leaving the scene of an accident involving bodily injury or death is a felony under Maryland law. In either scenario, a conviction can lead to license points, fines, and even incarceration. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) may also take administrative action, including license suspension or revocation. An experienced traffic lawyer can evaluate the specific facts, challenge the evidence, and pursue outcomes that minimize the long-term impact—such as seeking a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) to avoid points altogether, where available.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Hit and Run Cases

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach each hit-and-run case by first examining the prosecution’s evidence: the accident report, witness statements, vehicle damage, and any surveillance footage. In many Howard County cases, the critical question is whether the driver knowingly left the scene. Maryland law requires proof that the driver was aware an accident occurred. If the evidence is weak on that element, the defense may argue for a dismissal or reduction of the charges.

The team also explores procedural issues—whether the traffic stop was lawful, whether the citation was properly issued, and whether the MVA followed its own administrative procedures. Because one of the firm’s Of Counsel is a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, the team understands how Howard County prosecutors evaluate hit-and-run cases and where negotiation points may exist. When trial is necessary, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are prepared to litigate in the District Court or Circuit Court. Throughout the process, we keep clients informed and work to preserve their driving privileges. The firm’s goal is to achieve the trusted … Outcome under the specific circumstances of each case. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. A former prosecutor, he established the firm in 1997 and today practices across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His combined trial and advocacy experience informs the firm’s approach to every traffic and criminal defense matter.

Mr. Sris is joined by Of Counsel attorneys who bring extensive combined legal experience to the firm’s traffic defense practice. One member of the Of Counsel team is a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney—someone who prosecuted cases in both District and Circuit courts before transitioning to defense work. That insider perspective strengthens the firm’s ability to anticipate the prosecution’s strategy and negotiate effectively in Howard County courtrooms. The team serves clients in English, Spanish, and Tamil, ensuring clear communication at every stage. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented case results across multiple practice areas since the firm’s founding. Results may vary.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hit and run involving property damage and hit and run involving injury in Maryland?

Leaving the scene of an accident that involves only property damage is typically a misdemeanor, while leaving the scene of an accident that results in bodily injury or death is a felony under Maryland law. The distinction has a significant impact on the potential penalty and the long-term consequences. A misdemeanor conviction may lead to fines, points on the driver’s license, and possible jail time, whereas a felony conviction can carry a substantial prison sentence. The court in Howard County will consider factors such as the extent of any damage or injury, whether the driver knew an accident occurred, and whether the driver made any effort to notify police afterward. An attorney can evaluate the charging documents and help a client understand which category applies and what defense strategies may be available.

Do I need a lawyer for a hit and run charge in Howard County?

Yes, even for a property-damage only hit and run, retaining a lawyer is strongly advisable because a conviction can lead to points, increased insurance rates, and a criminal record. Many people assume a first-time hit and run is just a ticket, but in Maryland it is a criminal charge that appears on your record. A lawyer can examine whether the prosecution can prove that you knew an accident occurred, whether there is an identification issue, or whether procedural errors occurred. In Howard County, a lawyer familiar with the District Court and the local State’s Attorney’s Office can negotiate for a PBJ, a reduced charge, or even a dismissal. Self‑representation often puts a driver at a disadvantage because they may not know the available legal options. To discuss your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What are the possible penalties for hit and run in Maryland?

Penalties range from traffic citations with points to felony prison time, depending on the seriousness of the accident. Leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage can result in fines, up to several months of incarceration, and 3 to 5 points on the driver’s license. When the accident involves bodily injury, the offense becomes a felony that can carry up to several years in prison and significant fines. If a fatality occurs, the penalties are even more severe. In addition to court-ordered sanctions, the Maryland MVA may suspend or revoke the driver’s license. Insurance companies also view hit and run convictions as high-risk, often resulting in substantially higher premiums. An experienced traffic attorney can advocate for alternatives that avoid a conviction—such as PBJ—which keeps points off the record and minimizes insurance repercussions.

Can hit and run charges be dropped or reduced in Howard County?

Yes, hit and run charges can sometimes be dropped or reduced to a lesser offense. The outcome depends on the strength of the evidence, the type of damage or injury, and the defendant’s driving history. In Howard County, an attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction to a lesser traffic infraction—such as failing to remain at an accident scene being plea-bargained to a non‑criminal charge—if the facts support it. A common defense is challenging whether the driver knew an accident occurred. If the prosecution cannot prove that element, the case may be dismissed. Additionally, a PBJ disposition may be available, which avoids a conviction and points after a period of probation. Every case is different, so a lawyer should review the specific details to determine what reductions or dispositions are realistic.

How does the court process work for a hit and run charge in Howard County?

The initial hearing is typically scheduled in the District Court of Maryland for Howard County, located at 3451 Courthouse Drive in Ellicott City. The defendant receives a summons or is arrested and released with a court date. At the first appearance, the defendant enters a plea. If they plead not guilty, a trial date is set. The defendant has the right to request a jury trial, which moves the case to the Howard County Circuit Court. Throughout the process, pre‑trial motions can address evidentiary issues, and negotiations with the prosecutor can occur. If the case goes to trial, the prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. The timeline depends on court scheduling and case complexity. An attorney can explain the procedural steps and represent the defendant at each stage.

What should I bring to a consultation for a hit and run case?

Bring the citation or charging document, any accident report, your driver’s license, and any photographs or witness information you have. If the police gave you paperwork at the scene, that document is critical because it shows the specific charges and the court date. An accident report may contain the officer’s summary, statements from witnesses, and a diagram of the scene—all valuable to your defense. Photographs of vehicle damage or the accident location can help your attorney piece together what happened. Also bring your driver’s license so the attorney can check your driving record for any prior offenses that could affect the case. The more information you provide at the initial meeting, the better your legal team can evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case. To schedule a consultation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.