Hit and Run Accident Lawyer in Monmouth County, NJ
A hit and run accident in Monmouth County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, carrying potential criminal charges, license suspension, and civil liability for damages. If you are facing a hit and run accident charge in Monmouth County, you need a lawyer who understands the local courts. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for these cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Monmouth Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Hit and Run Laws
New Jersey law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop immediately and provide their information. Leaving the scene of an accident, or a hit and run, is a violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-129. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the accident. If the accident only resulted in property damage, it is typically a traffic offense. However, if the accident caused bodily injury or death, it becomes a criminal offense, potentially a felony. A conviction can lead to fines, jail time, and a lengthy driver’s license suspension. The civil consequences are also significant, as the fleeing driver can be held personally liable for all injuries and damages caused.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 39:4-129 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures for Monmouth County cases are handled at the Superior Court of NJ, Monmouth Vicinage in Freehold.
Handling a Hit and Run Case in Monmouth County
If you are accused of leaving the scene of an accident in Monmouth County, the process moves quickly. The case may start with a traffic summons or a criminal complaint, depending on the facts. For cases involving injury, prosecutors at the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office take these charges seriously. An experienced hit and run accident charge lawyer Monmouth County can examine the evidence, such as witness statements, surveillance footage, and vehicle damage, to build a defense. Strategies may involve challenging the identification of your vehicle, proving you were unaware an accident occurred, or negotiating for a reduced charge to avoid the most severe penalties.
- Secure immediate legal counsel after being charged or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will gather all police reports, witness statements, and any available video evidence.
- A defense strategy is developed, which may involve motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charges.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, aiming for a reduction or diversion program if possible.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare for and represent you at trial in Superior Court.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run in New Jersey
In Monmouth County, a hit and run accident carries penalties ranging from traffic fines and points to felony charges and years in prison, depending on the severity of the incident.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hit and Run (Property Damage) | Traffic Offense | Possible jail up to 30 days | $200 – $400 | 6-month suspension | 5 points on license |
| Hit and Run (Bodily Injury) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years prison | Up to $15,000 | 1-year suspension minimum | Felony record, civil liability |
| Hit and Run (Serious Bodily Injury/Death) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years prison | Up to $150,000 | Revocation | Extended prison term, significant civil lawsuits |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Hit and Run Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results, we bring substantial knowledge to complex traffic and criminal matters like hit and run cases. Our approach is based on a detailed review of the evidence and an understanding of local court procedures.
Case Results
While specific locality results are not published, our firm-wide practice has handled thousands of traffic and related criminal matters. We work to achieve outcomes such as charge reductions, avoidance of license suspension, and minimized penalties. Every case is unique, and we develop a strategy specific to the facts of your situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Near Monmouth County
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Monmouth County. We represent individuals at the Superior Court of NJ, Monmouth Vicinage in Freehold. If you need a hit and run accident lawyer near Monmouth County, we are accessible. We serve communities including Freehold, Tinton Falls, Red Bank, Long Branch, Asbury Park, Middletown, Holmdel, Marlboro, Manalapan, Howell, Wall Township, Neptune, and Colts Neck.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with a hit and run in Monmouth County?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Contact a hit and run accident lawyer Monmouth County immediately. Your lawyer will obtain the complaint, review the evidence against you, and advise you on the best course of action, which may include negotiating with the prosecutor or preparing a defense for court.
Can I go to jail for leaving the scene of an accident with only property damage?
Yes. While a property damage hit and run is typically a traffic offense, New Jersey law allows for a jail sentence of up to 30 days. The court also must impose a 6-month license suspension. An attorney can argue for alternatives to incarceration.
What is the difference between a traffic ticket and a criminal charge for hit and run?
It depends on whether the accident caused injury. A hit and run with only property damage is a traffic offense heard in Municipal Court. If the accident caused bodily injury or death, it becomes a criminal indictment (felony) prosecuted in Monmouth County Superior Court, with the potential for state prison time.
How can a lawyer help if there was an injury in the accident?
A hit and run accident charge lawyer Monmouth County is essential for injury cases. They can challenge the prosecution’s evidence linking you to the injury, negotiate for a lesser charge like a 4th-degree crime, or seek admission into a Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) program to avoid a permanent felony record.
Does New Jersey have cash bail for hit and run charges?
No. NJ abolished cash bail in 2017. If you are charged with a criminal hit and run, your release before trial will be determined by a Public Safety Assessment risk score, not money. A lawyer can advocate for your release with minimal conditions.
Disclaimer:
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.