The repercussions for a hit and run in Cobb County can be significant. Often, this misdemeanor traffic violation requires you to appear in court for an arraignment.
Usually, municipal court judges adjudicate arraignments for misdemeanor traffic offenses that occur within city limits. But, sometimes, Cobb County State Court has jurisdiction. This courthouse can preside over non-felony criminal cases, including hit and run traffic violations.
You can usually verify the location of your arraignment by reviewing your citation. This document also provides the date and time of your court date. It’s important to mark this on your calendar so the court doesn’t place you in failure to appear status with a bench warrant for your arrest.
Hit and Run Penalties
It’s best to speak with an experienced Cobb County traffic attorney before you arrive at your arraignment. The laws around this offense can be tricky – and you’re facing serious consequences with a conviction.
While you aren’t required to hire a lawyer, a hit-and-run violation carries a wide range of penalties based on the type of code the officer used for the citation. These codes can be confusing even for law enforcement and mistakes are made when it comes to charging the appropriate offense.
But before you panic about the citation, you should first evaluate the various hit and run code sections to determine if the officer charged you correctly.
Hit and Run O.C.G.A. 40-6-270
The most severe hit and run violation fall under O.C.G.A. 40-6-270, which applies when a driver strikes another moving vehicle. In this setting, the law expects drivers to pull over and exchange information with the other driver. The law also requires a driver to render assistance and contact emergency medical services and local law enforcement if someone is injured.
Drivers who fail to complete these steps could be charged with O.C.G.A. 40-6-270. Possible penalties include:
- a misdemeanor conviction,
- an automatic license suspension,
- a fine ranging from $300 to $1000,
- and jail or a probation sentence of 12 months.
Hit and Run Code O.C.G.A. 40-6-271
Striking an unoccupied vehicle is also classified as a hit and run if you fail to notify the owner or leave your contact information. This offense falls under code O.C.G.A. 40-6-271.
While less severe than O.C.G.A. 40-6-270, this violation still carries heavy penalties that might include:
- a misdemeanor charge
- a fine ranging up to $1000,
- and jail or a probation sentence up to 12 months.
Georgia Defense for a Hit and Run Violation
The best way to prepare for your arraignment is to speak with a traffic attorney who understands the codes and potential risks. Give yourself the best opportunity for a favorable outcome by scheduling a free consult with EHG Law.