Hit and Run Lawyer Essex County — What Are Your Defenses?
A hit and run accident charge lawyer Essex County handles leaving the scene of an accident cases under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129. In Essex County, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious traffic offense that can escalate to criminal charges if there is injury or death. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Hit and Run Statute
New Jersey law requires any driver involved in an accident to stop immediately and provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number to the other driver, occupant, or property owner. If the other party is injured or unable to receive the information, you must report the accident to the nearest police department. The primary statute governing this is N.J.S.A. 39:4-129 (Duty to stop in event of accident).
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Essex Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to traffic defense cases across New Jersey.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official N.J.S.A. 39:4-129 (New Jersey Legislature). Court procedures for Essex County are managed by the Superior Court of NJ, Essex Vicinage.
Essex County Court Process for Hit and Run Charges
In Essex County, a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Essex County navigates a process that begins with a summons. The Key Local Procedural Fact is that Essex County Municipal Court handles all traffic violations; these are quasi-criminal trials before a judge. Plea bargaining is common. A hit and run lawyer Essex County can often negotiate to reduce the severity of the charge, which is critical because NJ’s surcharge system adds significant financial penalties for point accumulation.
- Receive your summons and note your court date at 50 West Market Street, Newark.
- Consult with a hit and run accident charge lawyer Essex County to review the police report and evidence.
- Your attorney may file pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence or procedural errors.
- Attend a pre-trial conference where your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor for a potential reduction.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for and attend a bench trial before the Municipal Court judge.
- If convicted, your attorney can advise on post-trial motions or appeals to the Law Division.
Potential Penalties for Leaving the Scene in NJ
In Essex County, leaving the scene of an accident carries penalties based on the type of accident: property damage only, personal injury, or death.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage | Traffic Offense | None (typically) | Up to $200 | 2 points | NJ Surcharges |
| Leaving Scene – Personal Injury | Traffic Offense / Criminal (if severe) | Up to 180 days | Up to $1,000 | 8 points, possible suspension | NJ Surcharges, possible civil liability |
| Leaving Scene – Death | Indictable Crime (3rd Degree) | 3-5 years state prison | Up to $15,000 | Revocation | Felony record, significant surcharges |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Hit and Run Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We bring a deep understanding of New Jersey’s unique traffic court system and the financial impact of the Motor Vehicle Commission’s surcharge program. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous defense.
Documented Case Results in Essex County
Our firm has 10 documented traffic case results in Essex County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate (all reduced or amended).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Lawyer Near Essex County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Essex County courts. We represent individuals in Newark, Montclair, Livingston, West Orange, Bloomfield, Nutley, Belleville, South Orange, Maplewood, Millburn, East Orange, Orange, Irvington, Caldwell, Glen Ridge, Verona, and Cedar Grove.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
Hit and Run Defense FAQs for Essex County
Is leaving the scene of an accident a crime in New Jersey?
It depends. Leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage is a traffic offense. If the accident caused injury or death, it can be prosecuted as a criminal indictable offense (felony). The severity dictates the classification and potential for jail time.
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Essex County?
First, do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Essex County immediately. Your lawyer will obtain the police report, assess the evidence against you, and begin building a defense strategy, which may involve challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove you were the driver or that you knowingly left the scene.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run in NJ?
Yes. Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury carries 8 motor vehicle points, which can trigger a suspension. A conviction for leaving the scene of a fatal accident results in mandatory license revocation. An attorney can fight to minimize the license impact.
What are the insurance consequences of a hit and run conviction?
A conviction will likely cause your insurance premiums to increase significantly. also, New Jersey’s Motor Vehicle Commission imposes surcharges: $100 per year for each point over 6, for three years. A hit and run accident charge lawyer Essex County can work to reduce points to lessen this financial burden.
How many points is a hit and run in New Jersey?
Leaving the scene of an accident with property damage only results in 2 points. If the accident involves personal injury, it results in 8 points. These points remain on your driving record for three years and contribute to insurance surcharges.
Related Legal Help in Essex County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for criminal defense in Essex County, DUI/DWI defense in Essex County, and family law matters in Essex County. For all New Jersey traffic defense, see our New Jersey traffic lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring counties like Bergen County and Morris County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.