Phoenix Hit and Run Lawyer

Leaving the scene of an accident—even unintentionally—can have devastating legal consequences in Arizona. A simple misunderstanding or moment of panic can result in criminal charges that threaten your freedom, license, and reputation. When your future is on the line, you need more than just an attorney—you need a strategist.

I’m Joshua A. Lopez, Esq, a Phoenix hit and run lawyer known to my clients as Attorney Josh. With more than 165 five-star Google reviews, I’ve built my reputation on achieving strong results through smart, tactical defense.

What separates my firm from others is how I approach each case—with precision, strategy, and purpose. I don’t rely on standard defenses. Instead, I create intelligent legal strategies designed specifically for your situation. My slogan, Smart Defense. Strong Results., is more than a tagline—it’s how I win cases.

Understanding Hit and Run Laws in Arizona

Arizona law takes hit and run cases very seriously. Under A.R.S. § 28-661 through § 28-666, drivers are legally required to stop immediately at the scene of an accident, provide identification, and offer aid if anyone is injured. Failing to do so can lead to criminal charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies.

The state divides hit and run charges based on the severity of the accident and whether injuries or property damage occurred.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Injury or Death

If the accident results in injury or death, leaving the scene is considered a felony.
A conviction can lead to:

• Prison time (up to 10 years or more for serious cases)
• License revocation
• Hefty fines and restitution
• Permanent criminal record

Leaving the Scene of an Accident Involving Property Damage

If the accident only involves vehicle or property damage, it’s typically charged as a Class 2 misdemeanor.
While less severe, the penalties still include:

• Jail time (up to 4 months)
• Fines and probation
• License suspension
• Increased insurance rates and long-term DMV consequences

No matter the charge, you need a Phoenix hit and run lawyer who can help you navigate these complexities, protect your rights, and build a strategic path toward the best outcome possible.

Why People Leave the Scene—and Why It Matters

The law doesn’t always account for the emotional reality of accidents. People often flee not because they’re guilty, but because they’re afraid, disoriented, or unsure of what to do next. Common reasons include:

• Fear of arrest or losing a driver’s license
• Driving without insurance or with an expired license
• Having outstanding warrants or prior DUIs
• Shock, panic, or confusion after the crash
• Not realizing an accident occurred

These human factors don’t make someone a criminal—but prosecutors often assume the worst. My role as your attorney is to humanize your story, clarify the facts, and present a defense that shows why this incident doesn’t define you.

Building a Smart Hit and Run Defense

Defending a hit and run case requires strategy. The prosecution must prove that you were the driver and that you knowingly left the scene after an accident. As a Phoenix hit and run lawyer, I focus on attacking these points directly.

1. Challenging Identification

Many hit and run cases rely on witness statements or vehicle descriptions that are incomplete or unreliable. I work to show that the prosecution cannot definitively prove who was driving—or that the vehicle was even involved in the alleged accident.

2. Lack of Knowledge

If you were unaware that an accident occurred, you cannot be found guilty. This is common in cases involving minor fender benders, low-speed impacts, or situations with unclear damage.

3. Procedural Errors

Police often mishandle investigations—failing to follow chain-of-custody procedures, skipping warrants, or making assumptions during questioning. These mistakes can lead to evidence suppression or dismissal of charges.

4. Constitutional Violations

If law enforcement searched your property, vehicle, or records without proper cause, I file motions to exclude that evidence from trial. Smart defense starts with protecting your constitutional rights.

5. Mitigation and Negotiation

When appropriate, I negotiate to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors, argue for diversion programs, or secure plea agreements that avoid jail time and minimize long-term impact.

Every step I take is guided by one goal: to position your case for the strongest possible result.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences

Even after serving a sentence or paying fines, a hit and run conviction can follow you for life.
The impact can include:

• A permanent criminal record visible to employers and background checks
• Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license
• Increased insurance costs or denial of coverage
• Damage to your personal and professional reputation

For non-citizens, it may also affect immigration status, visas, or citizenship eligibility. That’s why hiring a Phoenix hit and run lawyer early is critical to limiting these outcomes.

How I Approach Hit and Run Cases

My defense philosophy centers around one thing—strategy. I don’t react to the prosecution; I anticipate their moves and build a plan that outthinks them at every turn.

Here’s what you can expect when you work with me:

1. Immediate Action

Time is crucial. I start by securing evidence, such as surveillance footage, dashcam recordings, or witness statements—before they disappear or are altered.

2. Investigative Review

I personally analyze every aspect of your case: police reports, accident reconstructions, and forensic details. Many hit and run charges crumble under close examination.

3. Communication with Prosecutors

My reputation for being detail-oriented often allows me to open productive negotiations. In many cases, I’ve persuaded prosecutors to drop or reduce charges before trial.

4. Personalized Strategy

No two cases are the same. I develop a custom plan based on your unique circumstances, emphasizing your character, intentions, and the facts that the state overlooks.

5. Trial Readiness

If your case goes to trial, I’m ready. My courtroom strategies focus on clarity, precision, and psychology—showing the jury not just what happened, but why you deserve understanding, not punishment.

Why Choose Attorney Josh

Choosing the right attorney can make the difference between a conviction and a clean record. My clients hire me because I combine legal knowledge with tactical intelligence.

What separates me from other law firms isn’t just my experience—it’s how I think.

• 165+ Five-Star Google Reviews: A proven track record of success and client satisfaction.
• Personal Attention: I personally handle every case from start to finish—no passing you to an associate.
• Smart Legal Tactics: Every move is strategic, not reactionary.
• Clear Communication: I explain the process and keep you informed every step of the way.
• Strong Results: My approach consistently leads to reduced charges, dismissed cases, and satisfied clients.

When you hire me, you get a Phoenix hit and run lawyer who doesn’t just defend—you get an ally who fights intelligently and relentlessly to protect your future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hit and Run Charges

Can I Be Charged with a Hit and Run If I Didn’t Know I Hit Someone?

You can only be convicted if prosecutors prove you knew (or should have known) an accident occurred. Lack of awareness is a powerful defense.

What If I Left the Scene Out of Fear?

Fear or panic is common after an accident. While leaving the scene is technically against the law, a skilled attorney can often use these facts to negotiate reduced penalties or alternative outcomes.

Will I Lose My License After a Hit and Run?

In many cases, yes. However, depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to avoid full revocation through negotiation or restricted licensing options.

Is a Hit and Run a Felony or Misdemeanor?

It depends on the outcome of the accident. If someone was injured or killed, it’s a felony. If it only involved property damage, it’s typically a misdemeanor.

Can a Hit and Run Charge Be Dismissed?

Absolutely. Many cases are dismissed when evidence is weak, identification is uncertain, or your rights were violated during the investigation.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

Hit and run investigations move fast. Police may issue warrants, contact registered vehicle owners, or gather surveillance footage before you even realize you’re being accused. The sooner you contact a defense attorney, the better your chances of controlling the outcome.

By hiring a Phoenix hit and run lawyer early, you gain a significant advantage. I can communicate with investigators on your behalf, protect you from self-incrimination, and often prevent formal charges from being filed.

Areas Served

I proudly represent clients throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Glendale, and all of Maricopa County.
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony hit and run, I bring the same commitment, intelligence, and focus to every case.

How We Can Help

If you’ve been accused of leaving the scene of an accident, your next move is critical. Don’t wait for the police or prosecutors to define your story—let me define it for you.

At the Law Office of Joshua A. Lopez, Esq, I fight for my clients using proven strategy, deep legal knowledge, and relentless preparation. My mission is simple: to give you Smart Defense. Strong Results.

Call 480-386-1824 today for a free and confidential consultation. Let’s discuss your case, your options, and the most strategic way to protect your freedom and your future.

When your reputation is on the line, you deserve more than a defense—you deserve a smart defense.