Leaving the scene of an accident in Tompkins County, New York, is a serious offense under NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience handling these cases. A conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Leaving the Scene Lawyer Tompkins County, New York
Understanding Leaving the Scene Charges Under NY VTL § 600
Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 600, any driver involved in an accident must stop, provide their name and insurance information, and render reasonable assistance to anyone injured. Failure to do so constitutes leaving the scene of an accident. The severity of the charge depends on whether the accident involved property damage, personal injury, or death. A property-damage-only accident is a traffic infraction, while injury or death elevates the charge to a misdemeanor or felony. These cases are prosecuted in Tompkins County Supreme Court, located at 320 North Tioga Street, Ithaca, NY 14850.
Last verified: April 2026 | Tompkins County Supreme Court | NY State Legislature
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every case.
Official Legal References
What to Expect in Tompkins County Supreme Court
In Tompkins County Supreme Court, prosecutors routinely review accident reports and witness statements to determine whether the driver knew an accident occurred. The court takes these charges seriously, especially when injuries are involved.
- Do not discuss the accident with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all evidence, including photos and repair estimates.
- Contact a Leaving the Scene Lawyer Tompkins County immediately.
- Attend all court dates in Tompkins County Supreme Court.
- Follow your attorney’s advice regarding plea negotiations or trial.
- Consider the long-term impact on your driving record and insurance.
In Tompkins County, leaving the scene of an accident carries penalties ranging from a fine to felony prison time, depending on the severity of the accident.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving Scene — Property Damage | Traffic Infraction | Up to 15 days | Up to $250 | Possible suspension | DMV points, insurance increase |
| Leaving Scene — Personal Injury | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Mandatory suspension | Criminal record, higher insurance |
| Leaving Scene — Serious Injury/Death | Class E Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory revocation | Felony record, loss of driving privileges |
Results may vary.
Your Legal Team
Our Track Record
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Tompkins County and throughout New York. While specific case results for this locality are not available, our firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ demonstrates our commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Buffalo, NY is approximately 150 miles from Tompkins County Supreme Court, with access via I-90 (NYS Thruway) and I-81. We serve the communities of Ithaca, Dryden, Lansing, Trumansburg, Groton, Newfield, Caroline, and Enfield.
If you are searching for a Leaving the Scene Lawyer Tompkins County, we are here to help. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: (838) 292-0003
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leaving the Scene Charges in Tompkins County
Should I fight a traffic ticket in Tompkins County (Finger Lakes), New York?
Usually yes, if the charge carries demerit points or criminal exposure. Prepaying a ticket is a guilty plea — it adds points to your record, may raise insurance for years, and cannot be undone. At NYS Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB — NYC/Buffalo/Rochester) or Tompkins County (Finger Lakes) local Justice Court, an attorney can negotiate reductions, present calibration and technical defenses, and in many cases avoid conviction entirely. Reckless driving, DUI, and suspended-license charges should never be paid without consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747.
What is the penalty for leaving the scene of an accident in Tompkins County, New York?
Under NY VTL § 600, leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage is a traffic infraction punishable by a fine of up to $250 and up to 15 days in jail. If the accident involves personal injury, it becomes a Class A misdemeanor with up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. A felony charge applies if serious physical injury or death occurs, carrying up to 7 years in prison. These cases are heard in Tompkins County Supreme Court.
Can a hit and run charge be reduced in Tompkins County?
It depends on the facts. In Tompkins County local Justice Court or Tompkins County Supreme Court, an attorney may negotiate a reduction to a lesser offense such as a parking violation or a non-criminal traffic infraction if the evidence shows no intent to flee or if the damage was minimal. A hit and run defense lawyer Tompkins County can evaluate whether the prosecution can prove the elements of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
Do I need a lawyer for a fleeing accident scene charge in Tompkins County?
Yes. A fleeing accident scene charge lawyer Tompkins County is strongly recommended because these charges carry potential jail time, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. The prosecution must prove you knew an accident occurred and intentionally left the scene. An experienced attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and work to avoid a conviction.
Related Legal Resources
- DWAI Lawyer Bronx — State-level hub for traffic defense
- DWAI Lawyer New York — Similar services in New York County
- DWAI Lawyer Nassau County — Similar services in Nassau County
- DWI Lawyer Tompkins County — Related DUI/DWI services
- Felony DWI Lawyer Tompkins County — Related felony DWI services
Last updated: 2026-04-29