Leaving the Scene Lawyer Burlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Leaving the scene of an accident in Burlington County is a serious traffic offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, potentially resulting in fines, license suspension, and even criminal charges. As a leaving the scene lawyer Burlington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense at the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Leaving the Scene Statute
In New Jersey, the legal duty to stop after an accident is governed by N.J.S.A. 39:4-129. This statute requires any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage to immediately stop their vehicle at the scene, provide their name, address, driver’s license, and vehicle registration to the other party or a police officer, and render reasonable assistance to any injured person. The law applies to accidents on both public and private property. The severity of the charge escalates based on the outcome of the accident—property damage, personal injury, or death. A conviction carries significant penalties, including points on your driving record, fines, and potential incarceration. Founded in 1997, our firm’s experience is grounded in a detailed understanding of these statutes and the local court procedures that apply to them.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the New Jersey Statutes Title 39 (Motor Vehicles and Traffic Regulation). Court procedures for Burlington County are handled at the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage in Mount Holly.
Local Court Process for Leaving the Scene Charges
In Burlington County, leaving the scene cases are adjudicated in Municipal Court, which is part of the Superior Court’s Vicinage system. These are quasi-criminal proceedings, meaning you have the right to an attorney and the state must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The court is located at 49 Rancocas Road in Mount Holly. Prosecutors in this vicinage often seek the statutory penalties, but plea negotiations are possible, such as seeking a reduction to a lesser charge like careless driving to avoid the severe consequences of a leaving the scene conviction.
- Receive the traffic summons or criminal complaint detailing the leaving the scene allegation.
- Consult with a leaving the scene lawyer Burlington County to review the evidence, including police reports and any witness statements.
- Appear for your arraignment at Burlington County Municipal Court to enter a plea.
- Engage in pre-trial negotiations with the prosecutor to seek a charge reduction or explore defense motions.
- Proceed to a bench trial before a Municipal Court judge if a favorable resolution cannot be reached.
- Address any sentencing requirements or appeals, if necessary.
Potential Penalties for Leaving the Scene in NJ
In Burlington County, leaving the scene carries penalties ranging from fines and points to license revocation and jail time, depending on the accident’s severity.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene – Property Damage | Traffic Offense | N/A | Up to $400 | 2 points; possible 6-month suspension | Court costs; NJ surcharges |
| Leaving Scene – Bodily Injury | Traffic Offense / Criminal (if serious) | Up to 180 days | Up to $1,000 | Mandatory 1-year revocation | Possible civil liability; community service |
| Leaving Scene – Death | Indictable Crime (3rd Degree) | 3-5 years state prison | Up to $15,000 | Mandatory 1-year revocation | Felony record; significant civil liability |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Traffic Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide practice has documented over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We bring this extensive litigation background to every leaving the scene case in Burlington County. Our approach involves a meticulous review of the evidence to challenge the prosecution’s assertion that you knowingly left the scene, which is a required element of the charge.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific locality counts are proprietary, our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with more than 93% favorable outcomes. This extensive history includes successful resolutions in traffic cases across New Jersey. For a fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Burlington County, this depth of experience is crucial for evaluating evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting a strong defense in court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Traffic Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients in Burlington County. We are accessible from major routes like the NJ Turnpike and I-295. If you need a hit and run defense lawyer Burlington County, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve communities throughout Burlington County including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is leaving the scene of an accident a criminal charge in New Jersey?
It depends. Leaving the scene involving only property damage is a traffic offense. However, if the accident results in serious bodily injury or death, it becomes an indictable crime (felony) under New Jersey law, specifically a third-degree offense punishable by state prison time.
What should I do if I’m charged with leaving the scene?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a leaving the scene lawyer Burlington County immediately. Your attorney will obtain the police report, review the evidence for weaknesses (like lack of knowledge of the accident), and develop a defense strategy for your hearing at the Burlington County Municipal Court.
Can I lose my license for a hit and run in NJ?
Yes. New Jersey mandates a one-year driver’s license revocation for leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury or death. For property damage-only incidents, the court has discretion to suspend your license for up to six months.
How many points is a leaving the scene ticket in Burlington County?
Leaving the scene of an accident in New Jersey results in 2 motor vehicle points being added to your driving record if it involves property damage. The points remain for three years and can trigger costly NJ Motor Vehicle Commission surcharges.
What’s the difference between a hit and run and leaving the scene?
In New Jersey legal terms, “hit and run” and “leaving the scene” refer to the same violation under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129. The statute defines the offense as failing to stop and fulfill your duties after being involved in a motor vehicle accident.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our New Jersey Traffic Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Hunterdon County and with related issues such as Burlington County Criminal Defense.
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.