Hit and Run Lawyer Staten Island, NY

A hit and run allegation in Staten Island can lead to serious consequences under New York law. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals facing charges of leaving the scene of an accident in Richmond County. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys understand how local courts and the DMV handle these matters and work to protect your driving record and your freedom. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
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What Hit and Run Means in Staten Island, NY

A hit and run—more formally described as leaving the scene of an incident—is governed by the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law. In Staten Island, which is coterminous with Richmond County, these cases may be heard at the Richmond County Supreme Court or the NYC Criminal Court — Staten Island, depending on the severity of the charge. Leaving the scene of a collision that results only in property damage can be a traffic infraction, while fleeing the scene of an accident causing injury or death may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. An allegation that you failed to exchange information or report an accident can trigger license suspension and, in more serious cases, incarceration.

Because Staten Island is one of the five boroughs of New York City, traffic tickets and certain leaving‑the‑scene charges may be handled by the New York State Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB) if they are classified as traffic infractions. More serious criminal matters proceed in the local Criminal Court or Supreme Court. The procedural roads for each are different, and the right defense approach depends on where the case is filed and what the specific allegations are.

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

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys begin by examining the charging documents, the police report, and any available video or witness evidence. They look at whether the statutory elements are met: Did the driver actually know that an accident happened? Was there an obligation to stop and exchange information? If it was a minor fender-bender without damage, a charge of leaving the scene may not be legally sustainable. In cases involving injury, the defense may explore whether the injury was actually caused by the collision or whether the client had a valid reason for leaving—such as a medical emergency.

When a case is at the TVB, the role of an attorney focuses on presenting a persuasive argument to the administrative law judge, because plea bargaining is not permitted in that forum. In the Criminal Court, the defense may negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal, and, where appropriate, explore eligibility for a rehabilitation‑oriented disposition. Throughout the process, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys advise the client on the potential impact a conviction may have on a New York driver’s license and insurance premiums, and on any immigration consequences for non‑citizens.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing since 1997. A former prosecutor, he is admitted in 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). Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to traffic and criminal defense matters. Results may vary.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include former law enforcement professionals and attorneys with deep criminal‑law backgrounds. Together, they provide representation to clients in Richmond County courts. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. maintains a New York location by appointment, and consultations are available by calling (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Staten Island?

Contact an experienced traffic defense attorney right away, and avoid making any statements to law enforcement or your insurance company until you have legal guidance. Leaving‑the‑scene charges can carry serious penalties, including license suspension and jail time. An attorney can evaluate whether the prosecution has sufficient proof that you knew of the accident and whether your actions amounted to a failure to comply with the Vehicle and Traffic Law. Gathering evidence early—such as footage from nearby surveillance cameras or dash‑cams—is critical.

Is leaving the scene of an accident always a crime in New York?

Not always; leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage is typically a traffic infraction, while leaving the scene of an accident with injury is a criminal offense. Under New York law, the duty to stop and exchange information depends on whether the driver knew or should have known that an accident occurred. The severity of the charge hinges on the level of injury or damage alleged. A misdemeanor may result in up to a year in jail, and a felony can carry a state‑prison sentence.

How does the TVB differ from the Criminal Court for a hit and run case?

The Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB) adjudicates traffic infractions only; it does not handle criminal charges. If your case stays at the TVB, you face only a fine and potential DMV points, but plea bargaining is not allowed. If the case is a misdemeanor or felony, it will be heard in the NYC Criminal Court — Staten Island, where plea negotiations are available. An attorney can explain which forum applies to your specific charge and how that affects your defense strategy.

Can I lose my driver’s license for a hit and run in New York?

Yes; a conviction for leaving the scene of an accident can result in a license suspension or revocation. Even a traffic infraction for leaving the scene of a property‑damage accident may lead to a suspension. Criminal convictions carry mandatory suspension periods. The DMV may also take action against your license if you accrue too many points from other traffic violations associated with the same incident.

Do I need a lawyer for a hit and run charge, or can I handle it by myself?

Having an experienced attorney significantly increases the chance of a favorable outcome, and a hit and run charge is not something to face on your own. Because these cases can involve both the criminal justice system and the Department of Motor Vehicles, the consequences of a conviction—including a criminal record, increased insurance, and possible jail time—can be severe. An attorney can identify procedural errors, challenge weak evidence, and present mitigation that may not be obvious to a person without legal training.

How do I reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. about a hit and run case in Staten Island?

Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are available to discuss your situation and explain how they can assist. The firm’s New York location is by appointment, and consultations are available by phone.

Other traffic defense pages:
Traffic Lawyer Richmond County (Staten Island) |
Traffic Lawyer New York County (Manhattan) |
Traffic Lawyer Kings County (Brooklyn)

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