Hit and Run Accident Defense Attorney in Studio City, CA Provides Vigorous Defense in Los Angeles County and Across Southern California
A hit and run accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. Whether it was a moment of panic or a misunderstanding, leaving the scene of an accident—no matter how minor—can lead to serious criminal charges. If you have been accused of a hit and run in Studio City, you need a skilled legal advocate on your side. Christopher Chaney, a trusted Studio City hit and run lawyer, is dedicated to defending clients facing these serious allegations. With his experience in California criminal defense, he understands how to build strong cases that protect his clients’ rights and their futures.
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we know that every hit and run case is different. Some people leave an accident scene out of fear, while others may not even realize a collision occurred. Regardless of the situation, law enforcement aggressively prosecutes these cases, and the penalties can be severe. Our firm is here to investigate your case, challenge the prosecution’s claims, and work tirelessly to get your charges reduced or dismissed.
If you are facing hit and run charges in Studio City, do not wait to seek legal help. The sooner you have a knowledgeable attorney fighting for you, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome. Let our team provide the strong, strategic defense you need to move forward with confidence.
Types of Cases Our Studio City Hit and Run Lawyer Handles
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we provide aggressive defense for a wide range of hit and run cases. California law makes it a crime to leave the scene of an accident without stopping to provide information or assist if someone is injured. However, not all hit and run cases are the same. Our firm defends clients against both misdemeanor and felony hit and run charges, working to protect their rights and minimize the impact of these serious allegations. Below are the most common types of hit and run cases we handle.
Misdemeanor Hit and Run (Property Damage)
A misdemeanor hit and run occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident that results in property damage only—such as damage to another vehicle, a fence, or a parked car. Even if no one is injured, failing to stop and provide your contact and insurance information is a crime.
Potential Penalties:
- Up to six months in jail
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Driver’s license suspension
- Increased insurance rates
Our hit and run lawyer can help fight these charges by proving you did not willfully leave the scene, were unaware of the damage, or had another legal defense.
Felony Hit and Run (Injury or Death)
Felony hit and run cases involve accidents where someone is injured or killed and the driver leaves the scene without stopping to provide aid or call for emergency help. The prosecution takes these cases very seriously, and the consequences can be life-altering.
Potential Penalties:
- Prison time (up to four years or more if a death is involved)
- Fines of up to $10,000
- Restitution to victims
- Felony record, which can impact future employment and housing
If you are accused of a felony hit and run, it is critical to have our experienced hit and run accident defense attorney in Studio City, CA, fighting for your rights.
Hit and Run Involving a Parked Car
Many hit and run cases happen in parking lots or on the street when a driver accidentally hits a parked vehicle and leaves without leaving a note. In some cases, the driver may not even realize they made contact with another car.
Even if the damage is minor, the law requires drivers to leave their contact information. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges. Our firm can help negotiate a resolution, often working to get these cases dismissed or reduced to non-criminal infractions.
Hit and Run Involving a Pedestrian or Cyclist
Accidents involving pedestrians or bicyclists are especially serious and can lead to felony charges. However, not all of these cases are as clear-cut as they seem. Some drivers do not realize they made contact with a pedestrian, or they panicked and left the scene out of fear.
Hit and run lawyer Christopher Chaney can help by investigating the accident, challenging the evidence, and negotiating with prosecutors to seek a reduced charge or alternative sentencing.
Wrongful Hit and Run Accusations
Unfortunately, mistaken identity and false accusations happen in hit and run cases. In some cases, another driver may have misidentified your car or reported the wrong license plate number.
Our legal team works hard to uncover evidence—such as traffic camera footage, GPS data, and witness testimony—to prove our client was not involved.
Hit and Run Related to DUI Charges
Many hit and run cases involve drivers who were under the influence of alcohol or drugs and left the scene to avoid a DUI charge. However, fleeing the scene can result in additional criminal charges and harsher penalties.
Our hit and run accident defense attorney in Studio City, CA understands the complexities of these cases and can build a strong defense to protect your freedom and minimize legal consequences.
No matter the circumstances, facing a hit and run charge is overwhelming. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we believe that everyone deserves a strong defense. Our legal team is ready to fight for you and help you navigate this challenging time. Call us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
How The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help
Being accused of a hit and run in Studio City can be overwhelming and frightening. The legal consequences are severe, and a conviction can impact your freedom, finances, and future. However, you do not have to face these charges alone. The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney are committed to defending individuals accused of hit and run offenses and helping them achieve the best possible outcome. With years of experience handling criminal defense cases in California, our firm provides aggressive, strategic legal representation for clients facing misdemeanor and felony hit and run charges.
Thorough Case Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Building a strong defense starts with a thorough investigation. Our Studio City hit and run lawyer will:
- Review police reports for inconsistencies and errors
- Gather traffic camera footage, surveillance videos, and GPS data to verify what really happened
- Speak with witnesses and examine statements for credibility issues
- Assess whether law enforcement followed proper procedures during their investigation
Many hit and run cases rely on circumstantial evidence. If the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were the driver involved in the incident, we will fight to have the charges dismissed.
Strategic Legal Defense to Reduce or Dismiss Charges
Each hit and run case is unique, and our firm tailors defense strategies to fit the specific circumstances of your situation. Common defenses include:
- Lack of Knowledge: You did not realize an accident occurred
- Mistaken Identity: You were not the driver or your vehicle was misidentified
- No Willful Intent to Flee: You intended to return to the scene but were prevented from doing so
- Emergency Situations: You left the scene due to a medical or personal emergency
- Violation of Legal Rights: Law enforcement failed to follow legal procedures or violated your constitutional rights
If dismissal is not possible, we will negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges or penalties. Our goal is to minimize jail time, fines, and license suspension whenever possible.
Negotiating with Prosecutors for Alternative Sentencing
For first-time offenders or those facing minor hit and run charges, our hit and run accident defense attorney in Studio City, CA may be able to secure alternative sentencing options such as:
- Diversion programs that allow you to avoid a criminal conviction.
- Community service in place of jail time.
- Restitution agreements to compensate for property damage without criminal penalties.
- Probation instead of incarceration.
Our firm understands that mistakes happen, and people deserve second chances. We work hard to find solutions that protect your record and your future.
Protecting Your Driver’s License and Fighting DMV Consequences
A hit and run charge can result in a suspended or revoked driver’s license, making it difficult to work, attend school, or manage daily responsibilities. Our legal team can represent you in DMV hearings to challenge the suspension and fight to keep your driving privileges intact.
Providing Aggressive Representation in Court
If your case goes to trial, you need an experienced and confident attorney by your side. Christopher Chaney is a skilled trial lawyer who is prepared to:
- Challenge the prosecution’s evidence and expose weaknesses in their case
- Cross-examine witnesses and police officers to uncover inconsistencies
- Present strong legal arguments and supporting evidence to the judge and jury
- Fight to secure a not-guilty verdict or a reduced sentence
If you are facing hit and run charges, do not wait to seek legal representation. The sooner you contact our attorney, the stronger your defense will be. The team at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney is ready to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and work toward the best possible resolution for your case.
Call us today for a free consultation and let our hit and run accident defense attorney protect your future.
The Process of Defending a Hit and Run Case
At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we follow a structured and strategic approach to defending clients accused of hit and run crimes. Our goal is to build the strongest possible defense while minimizing legal consequences. Here’s how we handle hit and run cases from start to finish:
Preparing Your Statement
The way you communicate with law enforcement and the court is critical to your defense. Before speaking to police, we help you craft a statement that avoids self-incrimination. We ensure your statement aligns with the facts while protecting your legal rights. If law enforcement has already questioned you, we analyze what was said and how it can impact your case.
Possibly Preventing a Trial
Not all hit and run cases go to trial—many can be resolved through negotiations. We engage in pre-trial discussions with prosecutors to find alternative resolutions. Our team explores options like dismissal, diversion programs, or reduced charges. By addressing concerns early, we aim to avoid lengthy and costly court proceedings.
Reviewing Extenuating Circumstances
Every case is unique, and we carefully examine all circumstances surrounding the alleged hit and run. Common factors that may weaken the prosecution’s case include:
- Lack of awareness of an accident
- Medical emergencies that required immediate departure
- Mistaken identity or vehicle misidentification
- Poor weather conditions or low visibility that contributed to the incident
If we uncover extenuating circumstances, we use them to challenge the charges or push for a reduced penalty.
Pushing for a Minimal Sentence
If a conviction is unavoidable, we fight to minimize the legal consequences. Our hit and run lawyer negotiates with prosecutors for:
- Reduced fines or alternative financial penalties
- Probation instead of jail time
- Community service or restitution as an alternative to criminal penalties
- Traffic school or defensive driving courses in place of harsher punishments
For first-time offenders, we often seek diversion programs that can prevent a permanent criminal record.
Navigating a hit and run charge is complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. At The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we fight aggressively to defend your rights and work toward the best possible resolution. If you or a loved one is facing hit and run charges, contact us immediately for a free consultation. Our hit and run accident defense attorney is ready to help you move forward with confidence.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney’s Hit and Run Lawyer?
When facing hit and run charges, you need a strong legal advocate who understands California law and knows how to protect your rights. The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against serious criminal charges. Our firm provides personalized attention, aggressive defense strategies, and skilled negotiation skills to help minimize penalties or get charges dismissed. As a trusted Studio City hit and run lawyer, Christopher Chaney fights for the best outcome in every case, whether that means avoiding a conviction, keeping you out of jail, or protecting your driving privileges. If you need a skilled defense attorney who will stand by your side, contact us today for a free consultation.
About Hit and Run Claims in Studio City
Hit and run accidents happen more often than people realize in Studio City, CA, especially on busy streets, highways, and parking lots. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious accident, leaving the scene can lead to criminal charges with severe consequences. However, if you are facing hit and run charges, you are not alone. Many people find themselves in these situations due to fear, confusion, or misunderstanding of the law. At the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we understand that everyone makes mistakes, and we are here to help. Our legal team is committed to providing the strong defense you need to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. Don’t face this challenge alone—let us fight for you.
Contact The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney’s Hit and Run Attorney in Studio City, CA for a Free Case Evaluation
If you are facing hit and run charges in Studio City, CA, you need a strong legal defense to protect your rights and your future. The consequences of a conviction can be serious, but you don’t have to fight this battle alone. At the Law Offices of Christopher Chaney, we are committed to providing aggressive and strategic defense to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Don’t wait—time is critical in building a strong defense. Contact our hit and run lawyer today for a free, confidential case evaluation. We will review your case, explain your legal options, and develop a strategy to fight the charges against you.
Call us now to schedule your consultation. Let us put our experience to work for you and help you move forward with confidence.
