Anytime you have been involved in accident that results in physical harm or property damage, you should contact a lawyer. Not only can you be liable for money damages, failure to stop can result in a criminal charge.
It is always better to get an attorney for any criminal charge. This particular charge is one that you can often avoid jail time without the services of an attorney. However, an attorney can help assure you get the best possible result, possibly avoiding a criminal conviction altogether.
Whether you'll need an attorney or not will depend upon your jurisdiction. If it is not considered a serious offense in your state , then perhaps you should not need an attorney. If you are concerned with the fine, the potential points which may be assessed against your license , and possible insurance rate increases, then consult a local attorney. Sometimes the offense can be reduced to some other lesser included charge in exchange for cooperation in the prosecution. Of course if you have been falsley accused , you should consult a lawyer.
If you are charged with hit and run, you should absolutely get an attorney. If you are not charged, just report it to your insurance company and let them handle the civil claim.
I would. If you are charged with conduct after an accident, then you could lose your license and points toward a habitual offender certification. If you driving record is good, any competent attorney can at the very least negotiate that charge down.
If you are the driver who failed to stop after causing property damage, you should speak with a criminal/traffic law attorney. Such a charge, if convicted, is a misdemeanor that can carry a sentence of a fine and/or jail time of up to 12 months. If you are the property owner whose property was damaged by the hit and run, you should speak with an attorney so you will know your options and how to proceed. Most people handle minor property claims without the help of an attorney. The reason is: if your property is damaged, you want the entire amount of the settlement to fix or replace the property. If you hire an attorney and pay the fee, you may not have enough to pay or replace your property. If the property's value is great, you should definitely consult a lawyer.
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