Question Posted Thursday November 1 2012, 11:57 pm
my sister has been charged with hit and run, she injured two people but they weren't killed. Will she go to jail for this or will it just be fines/probation? This is the first time she ever did something like this, she has no record at all.
if she does go to jail any idea how long it will be? Will it be more than a year?
If she pleads guilty will it be a lesser punishment?
[ Answer this question ] Want to answer more questions in the Relationships category? Maybe give some free advice about: Families? adviceman49 answered Friday November 2 2012, 10:12 am: Your sister needs to hire a lawyer if she has not already done so. Was she arrested, charged and booked or given a summons, a ticket. If she was arrested charged and booked then released on bail the charges are way serious and yes she could go to jail for many years. If she was issued a summons the charges are not as serious and jail time while still possible is less likely.
Leaving the scene of an accident is a very serious charge in any state especially when injury or death is involved. It is incumbent on all involved in an accident to stay at the scene, render aid and summon the police and proper rescue personnel to the scene if they can do so. Leaving the scene puts the others involved at risk of further injury or death by not summoning aid. Further more if it is found that your sister was under the influence of alcohol or any other substance legal or illegal the degree to which she is guilty worsens.
Okay that is the laws views on the subject. With a good lawyer and if there is nothing else other than a bad choice on her part. Given the fact that no one died and hopefully the injuries were not serious; the prosecutor may be interested in a plea bargain that does not include jail time. This is why it is important to get a lawyer of your own choosing.
Have her check with her insurance company. Her insurance policy may cover the cost of legal representation or the insurance company may provide a lawyer. Your sister has the right to a public defender if she cannot afford a lawyer. Public Defenders are so over worked that it is better if you can find your own attorney and work out a payment system if need be.
The lesson her is no mater what never leave the scene of an accident you are involved in. Even if you caused the accident and even if you are drunk. The charges are less sever if you remain at the scene then if you leave. [ adviceman49's advice column | Ask adviceman49 A Question ]
Rena-Chan answered Friday November 2 2012, 7:57 am: Hit and run, with or without death is still a serious crime. Besides, it all varies from state to state. Each state has their own laws. Your best bet is to look up local laws. But here is a site that might help a bit.
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