A hit and run arrest in Oakland can turn your life upside down in a matter of moments. You may be worried about jail, losing your driver’s license, rising insurance costs, and how a criminal record could affect your job and family. California treats leaving the scene very seriously, and police and prosecutors often move quickly. At the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, we help people accused of hit and run understand what they are facing, protect their rights, and start building a defense strategy from the very first consultation.
Every hit and run situation is different. Maybe you panicked and drove away, did not realize any damage occurred, or only learned of the accusation when an officer contacted you later. No matter how it happened, you deserve a clear explanation of the law and straightforward guidance about your options. This Oakland-focused hit and run resource explains the charges, penalties, defenses, and what to expect in the court process, so you can make informed decisions and take steps aimed at protecting your future and your driving record.
Hit and run cases are often built on partial information, witness statements, surveillance footage, and assumptions about what happened. Without a focused defense, you could face consequences that are far more severe than necessary, including jail time, probation, fines, restitution, and long-term DMV consequences. Having a lawyer who regularly handles Oakland hit and run cases means you have someone reviewing the evidence, protecting your rights during questioning, and negotiating with prosecutors. The right defense strategy can help reduce charges, seek alternatives to jail, and work to protect your record and your ability to drive.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed is a criminal defense law firm serving Oakland, Alameda County, and Contra Costa County. The firm has handled thousands of criminal cases, including many involving driving offenses, hit and run allegations, and DUI-related matters. This background gives the firm insight into local court procedures, prosecutorial tendencies, and the defenses that can be effective in Oakland and nearby courts. Clients receive personalized attention, honest evaluations of their situation, and aggressive advocacy aimed at limiting collateral consequences that can follow a hit and run conviction for years.
In California, hit and run refers to leaving the scene of an accident without stopping to provide identifying information or render aid when required. The law applies whether the incident involves another vehicle, a parked car, a pedestrian, or property such as a fence or building. What many Oakland drivers do not realize is that you can face charges even if the collision seems minor or there were no injuries. The decision to leave, even briefly, can be used against you, making it important to understand your obligations under California Vehicle Code sections governing hit and run.
The severity of a hit and run charge in Oakland depends on whether the accident resulted in property damage only or caused injury or death. Property damage cases are usually treated as misdemeanors, while injury-related cases may be filed as felonies. Prosecutors will look at the extent of the damage, any prior record, allegations of alcohol or drug use, and how you behaved after the incident. A knowledgeable defense lawyer can help clarify the exact charge, explain potential penalties, and identify weaknesses or gaps in the state’s version of events that may open the door to negotiations or dismissal.
A hit and run occurs when a driver is involved in a collision and fails to stop and provide required information or assistance. Under California law, you must stop at the scene, exchange your name, address, and vehicle registration, and, when requested, show your driver’s license. If someone is injured, you have a duty to reasonably assist, including calling 911. Even in a parking lot, leaving a note with sufficient information is required when you cannot locate the other party. Failing to follow these steps can lead to hit and run charges, even if the initial collision seemed minor.
To prove a hit and run, the prosecutor must show that you were involved in a collision, knew or should have known an accident occurred, and willfully left without providing information or aid. Oakland police may rely on license plate information, witness statements, and video footage to identify a suspect vehicle. Once a case is filed, you may receive a letter, a call from an investigator, or a court summons. From arraignment to pretrial hearings, there are many opportunities for a defense lawyer to challenge the evidence, negotiate reduced charges, or argue for diversion or other alternatives.
Hit and run cases often involve legal terms that can be confusing if you do not deal with the court system regularly. Understanding the language used by police, prosecutors, and judges can help you participate in your defense and avoid misunderstandings. Terms like “misdemeanor,” “felony,” “restitution,” and “probation” affect what is at stake and what outcomes might be available in your Oakland case. The following brief glossary covers common concepts that arise in California hit and run matters so you can follow along during meetings, hearings, and discussions about possible resolutions.
Misdemeanor hit and run usually refers to leaving the scene of a collision that involves only property damage. In Oakland, this often arises when a driver allegedly hits a parked car, another vehicle, or nearby property and fails to stop or leave adequate contact information. Although called a misdemeanor, the consequences can still be significant, including fines, probation, restitution, and possible county jail time. A misdemeanor conviction can also affect your driving record, insurance rates, and employment opportunities, making it important to treat these charges seriously and seek legal guidance quickly.
Felony hit and run typically involves leaving the scene of an accident where someone is injured or killed. Oakland prosecutors often treat these cases aggressively, particularly when there are allegations of high speed, pedestrians, cyclists, or vulnerable road users. Felony charges can bring the risk of state prison, lengthy probation, large restitution orders, and long-term impacts on immigration status and future employment. Because of the higher stakes, early investigation, preservation of evidence, and careful communication with law enforcement are especially important in any Oakland case involving suspected injury or serious harm.
Restitution is money a court may order a defendant to pay to compensate someone for financial losses related to a crime. In Oakland hit and run cases, restitution can include the cost of vehicle repairs, medical bills, lost wages, and other documented expenses. Restitution is separate from fines and fees paid to the court. Even when a case resolves through a plea or diversion, restitution can remain a central issue. Having a lawyer review the claimed amounts, verify documentation, and challenge unsupported requests can help keep restitution orders fair and tied to actual proof of loss.
Probation is a period of court supervision that may be imposed after a conviction in place of, or in addition to, time in jail or prison. In an Oakland hit and run case, informal probation might include conditions such as paying restitution, obeying all laws, attending classes, completing community service, or staying away from certain locations. Violating probation terms can lead to additional penalties, including possible jail time. Understanding the specific conditions and how long they last is important, and a lawyer can work to negotiate terms that are realistic and manageable for your circumstances.
When facing a hit and run allegation in Oakland, you may have several potential paths, each with different risks and benefits. Some drivers hope the situation will resolve on its own without appearing in court or consulting a lawyer, but this can lead to missed opportunities for a better outcome. Others consider pleading guilty quickly, only to learn later how the conviction affects their record, insurance, or career. A more comprehensive approach involves carefully reviewing the evidence, exploring defenses, pursuing negotiations, and considering diversion or alternative resolutions that may help protect both your freedom and your future.
In some Oakland hit and run matters involving only minor property damage and no injuries, a limited legal response may be sufficient. If insurance promptly covers the loss, the other party is cooperative, and your record is otherwise clean, it may be possible to resolve the case through negotiations that focus on restitution and community-based outcomes. In these situations, the defense strategy might emphasize your prompt efforts to make things right and the low risk of future problems. Even when the case appears minor, though, having guidance can help you avoid statements or actions that could make matters worse.
A limited approach can sometimes work when the available evidence strongly supports dismissal, a reduction in charges, or entry into a diversion program. For example, Oakland cases with weak identification, unclear damage, or proof that you did attempt to stop may be well-positioned for early resolution. In these situations, the defense may focus on presenting key documents, photos, and witness statements promptly to the prosecutor. By narrowing the issues and targeting the most persuasive facts, you may achieve a favorable outcome without extensive litigation, while still protecting your rights and keeping options open if negotiations stall.
When a hit and run case in Oakland involves allegations of injury, possible alcohol or drug use, or a prior record, a comprehensive defense becomes especially important. Prosecutors may seek felony charges, enhanced penalties, and strict probation terms. These cases often require independent investigation, accident reconstruction, careful review of medical records, and close attention to statements made by witnesses and law enforcement. A thorough approach can uncover inconsistencies, highlight alternative explanations for the incident, and identify legal issues that might reduce charges or limit punishment, helping to protect your liberty, license, and long-term opportunities.
For some Oakland residents, the stakes of a hit and run case go beyond jail or fines. Non-citizens may face immigration consequences, and licensed professionals, commercial drivers, and those in sensitive positions may risk disciplinary action or job loss. In these circumstances, a comprehensive legal strategy should consider not only the immediate criminal penalties but also how any plea or outcome might affect these additional areas. This often involves exploring creative resolutions, seeking charge reductions, and working with relevant professionals when necessary, all with the goal of limiting the broader impact on your life and livelihood.
A comprehensive defense in an Oakland hit and run case looks at the entire picture, not just the police report. By thoroughly reviewing the evidence, identifying legal issues, and considering your personal background, a well-planned approach can create options you might not have realized were available. This can include arguing for charge reductions, advocating for diversion programs, seeking alternatives to jail, and negotiating probation terms you can realistically follow. A broader strategy also focuses on minimizing long-term harm, such as damage to your driving record, insurance costs, and future employment prospects.
Taking the time to build a complete defense also helps ensure that your side of the story is heard. Many hit and run cases involve panic, confusion, miscommunication, or genuine fear rather than intentional wrongdoing. By gathering photos, video, witness statements, and background information, your lawyer can present a more accurate and human picture to prosecutors and judges. This can influence charging decisions, plea offers, and sentencing outcomes, giving you a better chance at protecting your record, your driver’s license, and your standing in the Oakland community.
When you and your lawyer adopt a comprehensive defense, you gain more control over how your Oakland hit and run case unfolds. Instead of simply reacting to each court date or offer, you can set goals and develop a clear plan to pursue them. This might include challenging certain pieces of evidence, requesting specific hearings, or presenting mitigation early in the process. A thoughtful strategy can help you avoid rushed decisions, ensure important issues are not overlooked, and improve your chances of reaching an outcome that aligns with your priorities and responsibilities.
An Oakland hit and run case is about more than a single court date; it can affect your future for years. A comprehensive approach focuses on limiting long-term damage by examining how each possible resolution might impact your record, employment, immigration status, and family. By exploring options such as reductions, dismissals, and conditional resolutions, your defense can aim to keep doors open down the road. This forward-looking perspective helps ensure that decisions made today do not create unnecessary obstacles for you in housing, licensing, travel, or other important parts of your life.
If Oakland police contact you about a suspected hit and run, it may feel natural to explain yourself right away. However, statements made in the heat of the moment can be misunderstood or used against you in court. You have the right to remain silent and the right to consult a lawyer before answering questions. Politely providing identification while clearly stating that you wish to speak with an attorney first can help protect you from unintentionally harming your case, while still showing respect for the process and the officers involved.
Some people mistakenly believe a hit and run accusation will go away on its own, especially if they think the damage was small. In Oakland, ignoring letters, calls, or court dates can lead to warrants, license consequences, and more serious legal trouble. Taking the charges seriously from day one means responding promptly, attending all hearings, and consulting a defense lawyer as early as possible. This proactive approach can open doors to better plea offers, help you avoid additional charges, and demonstrate to the court that you are committed to addressing the situation responsibly.
Hit and run allegations can feel overwhelming, especially if you have never been through the criminal justice system before. Oakland drivers often worry about losing their license, facing jail, or having their insurance rates skyrocket. A lawyer who regularly handles hit and run matters can evaluate your situation, explain realistic outcomes, and help prevent missteps that might make things worse. Whether you believe the accusation is mistaken, exaggerated, or the result of a momentary lapse in judgment, professional representation can help you move forward with clarity and a stronger plan.
Beyond the immediate legal consequences, a hit and run conviction can have lasting effects on employment, background checks, and personal relationships. Working with an Oakland criminal defense law firm gives you an advocate focused on minimizing that impact. Your lawyer can challenge questionable evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and pursue alternatives like reduced charges, diversion, or creative sentencing solutions. Having someone on your side who understands local courts and procedures can make the process more manageable, giving you a better chance to protect your record and maintain stability in your life.
Many hit and run cases in Oakland do not start with malicious intent. They often involve split-second decisions, confusion, or misunderstanding of legal duties. A driver might clip a parked car while searching for parking, sideswipe another vehicle in heavy traffic, or be involved in a minor collision while feeling pressured by other drivers. Sometimes, individuals fear immigration consequences, outstanding warrants, or insurance issues and drive away in panic. Understanding these common patterns can help your lawyer explain your situation to prosecutors and judges in a more accurate and compassionate way.
One frequent scenario in Oakland involves a driver backing out of a parking space and gently bumping another vehicle. Believing the damage is minimal, the driver may leave without leaving a note or looking for the owner, only to later learn that cameras or witnesses reported the incident. Even if you thought there was no visible damage, prosecutors may still file a misdemeanor hit and run charge. In these cases, your lawyer can investigate the actual extent of the damage, review any video, and work to show that the incident does not justify harsh penalties.
Late-night collisions on Oakland streets often lead to hit and run accusations. Drivers may feel scared, disoriented, or concerned about their safety, particularly in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. In the confusion, they drive away and later regret not stopping. These cases can involve questions about how clearly the driver understood what happened, whether they believed an accident occurred, and what options felt safe at the moment. By gathering information about the circumstances, your lawyer can present a fuller picture of your mindset and advocate for outcomes that reflect the reality of the situation.
Some Oakland drivers leave the scene because they are afraid of other issues coming to light, such as a suspended license, lack of insurance, or alcohol use earlier in the evening. This fear can lead to decisions they would not make under calmer circumstances. When the situation is later investigated, the hit and run charge may overshadow the original concern. A lawyer can assess all of these factors, including your prior record and personal history, and work to negotiate a resolution that addresses the incident without defining you by a single moment of panic.
Facing a hit and run accusation in Oakland can leave you feeling isolated and unsure who to trust. At the Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed, we understand how stressful it is to worry about court dates, possible jail time, and how your family will be affected. Our firm is committed to listening carefully, answering your questions, and guiding you through each step of the process. From the first consultation, you receive clear information about your options and a dedicated advocate focused on pursuing the best possible outcome for your unique circumstances.
The Law Office of Nabiel C. Ahmed focuses exclusively on criminal defense, including driving and drug offenses such as hit and run. By concentrating on this area of law, the firm has developed a strong familiarity with Oakland courts, local judges, and the approaches prosecutors often take. Clients benefit from detailed case evaluations, honest assessments of potential outcomes, and strategies tailored to their goals. The firm understands how important it is to protect your freedom, your license, and your reputation, and works diligently to safeguard those interests from the very beginning.
When you hire our Oakland criminal defense law firm, you are not just another file on a desk. Your case receives individual attention, timely communication, and thoughtful planning. We take the time to learn about your background, your responsibilities, and your concerns, so we can highlight the factors that matter to prosecutors and judges. Whether negotiating a favorable plea, pursuing dismissal, or litigating legal issues, our goal is to stand between you and the power of the state, giving you a voice in a system that can otherwise feel overwhelming and impersonal.
Every hit and run case that comes to our Oakland office begins with a careful review of the facts. We start by listening to your account, gathering available documents, and identifying immediate concerns like outstanding warrants or upcoming court dates. From there, we request police reports, examine the alleged damages, and look for surveillance footage or witnesses that may support your defense. Throughout the process, we keep you informed, explain each step in plain language, and work with you to choose a strategy that aligns with your goals and comfort level.
The first step in handling an Oakland hit and run case at our firm is a detailed consultation. During this meeting, we discuss how the incident occurred, what communication you have had with law enforcement or insurance companies, and what charges you believe you might face. We also talk about your work, family, and driving history to understand the broader context. This initial review allows us to identify urgent issues, such as upcoming arraignments or warrants, and to give you guidance on what to do and what to avoid while the case is developing.
During the first part of the consultation, our focus is on hearing your story in your own words. Many Oakland drivers accused of hit and run feel judged before they have a chance to explain their side. We encourage you to describe what happened, including your mindset, any confusion or fear you experienced, and what you did afterward. This helps us understand not only the legal issues, but also the human factors that may influence how we present your case. Your questions about possible penalties and next steps are welcomed and addressed honestly.
The second part of the initial meeting focuses on gathering any documents you already have and outlining immediate steps. This may include reviewing letters from the court, insurance paperwork, photographs of damage, or information about potential witnesses. We also discuss whether you should avoid contact with certain parties, how to handle calls from investigators, and what to expect from your first court appearance. By the end of this stage, you should have a clearer understanding of the process, a plan for the short term, and a sense of how our firm will move forward on your behalf.
Once you decide to move forward with our Oakland firm, we shift into a focused investigation and evidence review. This stage involves requesting the police report, examining photos, videos, and body camera footage, and evaluating any statements witnesses have made. We compare these materials with your account to identify inconsistencies, gaps, or areas that need further inquiry. When appropriate, we may suggest additional evidence, such as obtaining surveillance from local businesses or gathering records that support your timeline, to strengthen your position before entering negotiations or contested hearings.
A key part of defending a hit and run case is understanding exactly what the police and witnesses are alleging. We carefully read the report to see how officers describe the scene, the damage, and any contact with you or your vehicle. Witness statements are evaluated for reliability, consistency, and possible bias. In Oakland, where traffic and visibility can vary widely by neighborhood, details such as lighting, distance, and vantage point may significantly affect whether a witness could accurately identify a vehicle or driver. These insights guide our strategy moving forward.
After reviewing the evidence, we identify potential defenses and points of leverage for negotiations. This can include challenging identification of the driver, questioning whether you knew an accident occurred, disputing the extent of damage or injury, or highlighting significant steps you have taken to address the situation. We then discuss these issues with you and, when the time is right, present them to the prosecutor. By approaching the case with a clear understanding of both strengths and weaknesses, we can negotiate from a position of knowledge and work toward a resolution that better protects your interests.
The final stage of an Oakland hit and run case often involves a combination of negotiations, court hearings, and, in some cases, motions or trial. We represent you at each appearance, advocating for your position and keeping you informed about offers and options. Depending on the circumstances, this may include arguing for reduced charges, diversion, or sentencing alternatives that focus on restitution and rehabilitation rather than incarceration. Throughout this phase, we maintain open communication, answer your questions, and work to reach a resolution that reflects both the facts of the case and your long-term needs.
Court can be intimidating, especially if you have never stood before a judge. Our firm appears with you at each Oakland court hearing related to your hit and run case. We explain what will happen at each stage, from arraignment through pretrial conferences, and help you know what to expect. In the courtroom, we speak on your behalf, challenge improper requests, and ensure that your rights are respected. Knowing that you have an experienced advocate by your side can make the process more manageable and help prevent misunderstandings that might affect the outcome.
As your case moves toward resolution, our focus remains on securing an outcome that protects your future as much as possible. For some Oakland clients, this may mean seeking dismissal or not-guilty verdicts when the evidence is weak. For others, it might involve negotiating a plea to a reduced charge, arranging for diversion, or advocating for terms that limit license consequences and avoid jail. By carefully weighing your options, discussing them candidly, and listening to your priorities, we aim to guide you toward a resolution that allows you to move forward with greater stability and peace of mind.
If Oakland police contact you about a suspected hit and run, stay calm and remember that you have rights. You must provide identification, but you are not required to answer detailed questions about where you were driving or what happened. Politely let the officer know that you would like to speak with an attorney before giving a statement. Anything you say can be used later, sometimes in ways you do not expect, so it is wise to get legal guidance first. After the initial contact, reach out to a criminal defense law firm as soon as possible. A lawyer can determine whether there is an active investigation or warrant, advise you on whether to appear voluntarily, and start gathering evidence that may help your case. Early involvement can sometimes prevent charges from being filed or lead to more favorable options, such as reduced charges or alternative resolutions, especially in hit and run cases involving limited damage or strong mitigating circumstances.
Yes, you can face hit and run charges in California even when no one was injured. In Oakland, most property-damage-only hit and run cases are filed as misdemeanors. The key issue is whether you stopped and provided required information or left a proper note. Even if the collision seemed minor or you did not see obvious damage, prosecutors may still pursue charges if they believe you should have known an accident occurred. While misdemeanor charges are less serious than felonies, they can still bring fines, probation, restitution, and possible jail time. They can also impact your driving record and insurance rates. A defense lawyer can review the evidence, evaluate whether you reasonably knew about the accident, and argue for dismissal, diversion, or a reduction in charges. Taking the situation seriously from the outset gives you a better chance of limiting the long-term fallout from a property-damage hit and run allegation.
Penalties for hit and run in California vary depending on whether the case involves property damage only or injury. In Oakland, a misdemeanor hit and run can carry fines, probation, restitution, and up to six months in county jail, though many cases are resolved with less severe outcomes, especially for people with clean records. Felony hit and run, which generally involves injury or death, can expose you to significantly higher fines and potential state prison time. Beyond court-imposed penalties, there are indirect consequences to consider. A conviction can affect your DMV record, increase insurance premiums, and show up on employment background checks. In some situations, immigration status may also be impacted. By working with a criminal defense law firm, you can better understand the specific sentencing range in your case, as well as possible ways to reduce the charges or negotiate resolutions that limit the harshest penalties.
Whether you lose your driver’s license for a hit and run depends on the circumstances and how the case is resolved. The DMV and the court system each have their own authority, and in some Oakland cases, both can take action. Certain hit and run convictions may trigger license suspensions, especially when they are tied to more serious conduct or other offenses like DUI. Even when suspension is not mandatory, judges may consider license-related conditions as part of sentencing. A defense lawyer can help you understand the DMV implications and, in some situations, represent you in administrative hearings. By negotiating charge reductions or crafting plea agreements with license concerns in mind, it may be possible to avoid or shorten suspensions. If a suspension is imposed, there may be options for restricted licenses that allow driving to work, school, or medical appointments. Addressing license issues early is important for maintaining your ability to meet daily responsibilities.
Yes, many Oakland hit and run cases can be reduced or, in some circumstances, dismissed. The outcome depends on factors like the strength of the evidence, whether anyone was injured, the amount of damage, and your prior record. If identification is weak, damage is minor, or there is proof that you tried to provide information, a lawyer may be able to persuade prosecutors to file lesser charges, agree to diversion, or even drop the case. Mitigating steps you take can also influence negotiations. Paying restitution promptly, completing counseling, or participating in community programs may demonstrate to the court that you take the incident seriously. Your defense attorney can present these efforts in a way that supports requests for leniency. While no lawyer can promise a specific result, a thoughtful strategy often increases the chances of charge reductions or alternative resolutions that reduce the long-term impact of a hit and run accusation.
It is generally unwise to speak with the other driver’s insurance company about the details of the incident before you have legal advice. Adjusters often seem friendly, but their job is to limit the company’s financial exposure and gather statements that might later be used in court. In an Oakland hit and run case, even casual comments about whether you saw damage or why you left the scene can be taken out of context. Instead, consult with a criminal defense lawyer who can help you balance the insurance issues with the criminal charges. Your attorney may communicate directly with the insurance company or guide you on what is safe to say. Addressing restitution and property damage can sometimes help in negotiations with prosecutors, but it should be done strategically. Protecting your criminal case should remain the priority when deciding how and when to interact with insurance representatives.
Many people leave the scene of an accident because they are scared, especially at night or in unfamiliar parts of Oakland. Fear of physical danger, immigration consequences, or existing legal problems can all influence a split-second decision. While these feelings are understandable, the law still requires drivers to stop, provide information, and offer reasonable assistance when someone is hurt. Prosecutors may initially focus only on the fact that you left, not the reasons why. A defense lawyer can help bring your state of mind and safety concerns to light, which may matter to judges and prosecutors when deciding how to handle the case. Evidence about the location, time of day, and your personal circumstances can provide important context. While fear does not erase the charge, demonstrating that you were not acting with disregard for others can sometimes lead to reduced penalties, alternative resolutions, or more lenient treatment in court.
The length of a hit and run case in Oakland varies, but many misdemeanor cases take several months from arraignment to final resolution. Factors that affect timing include court schedules, the complexity of the evidence, and whether your lawyer files motions or seeks additional investigation. Felony cases, or those involving injuries, can take longer, particularly if negotiations are complicated or if the case moves toward preliminary hearing and potential trial. While it can be tempting to push for the fastest possible outcome, moving too quickly is not always in your best interest. Time can allow your attorney to gather helpful evidence, review medical or damage records, and develop mitigation that improves your negotiating position. Throughout the process, your lawyer should keep you updated on expected timelines and any reasons for delays, so you can plan around court dates and better understand what to expect at each stage.
A hit and run conviction will typically appear on your criminal record and DMV history for many years, but that does not mean you have no options. Depending on the outcome in your Oakland case, you may later qualify for relief such as expungement of certain convictions. Expungement does not erase the case entirely, but it can change how you are allowed to answer some questions on job applications and may reduce the impact of the conviction in certain situations. Your lawyer can discuss long-term record options with you, even while the case is still pending. In some instances, negotiating a plea to a lesser charge that is more favorable for future relief is possible. Addressing record concerns early helps ensure that decisions made during your case consider how they will affect you years down the line, not just on the day of sentencing or the completion of probation.
You should contact a hit and run lawyer as soon as you learn that you might be under investigation or facing charges. Early involvement often allows more options. In Oakland, police may try to reach you before filing a case, hoping you will make statements that help them. Having an attorney in place means you will not face these conversations alone and can avoid missteps that might later limit your defense. Even if charges are already filed and you have a court date set, reaching out quickly is still important. Your lawyer can obtain the complaint, review the allegations, and advise you on how to plead at arraignment. With more time before key hearings, your defense team can investigate, gather documents, and explore negotiation paths that may lead to better outcomes. The sooner you take action, the more opportunity there is to shape how your hit and run case develops.
