Leaving the Scene of an Accident – Boston College Student Defense
If your Boston College student has been accused of leaving the scene of an accident, this is not a minor traffic ticket—it's a criminal offense that could impact their driving privileges, academic status, and future.
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we regularly represent college students at Newton District Court, providing skilled, compassionate legal defense tailored to both the courtroom and the campus environment.
📞 Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free consultation with a top criminal defense attorney.
What Does “Leaving the Scene” Mean?
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 24, drivers involved in an accident must:
🔹 Stop at the scene
🔹 Provide name, address, and vehicle registration
🔹 Render assistance if injury occurs
🔹 Report the accident if there is injury or major damage
Failure to do any of these—whether due to panic, confusion, or fear—can result in criminal charges.
Types of Offenses
Leaving the Scene – Property Damage Only
⛓️ Up to 2 years in jail
💰 Fine up to $200
🚗 Automatic license suspension
Leaving the Scene – Personal Injury
⚖️ Felony offense
⛓️ Harsher jail time
💰 Higher fines
🚗 Longer suspension
Common Scenarios Involving Boston College Students
These charges often arise from situations like:
🚗 Tapping a parked car in a garage or campus lot and driving off
🏡 Clipping a mailbox or fence in a residential neighborhood
😨 Panic after a late-night incident or alcohol-influenced decision
🚨 Failure to report accident due to fear of police or school discipline
Even without malicious intent, these incidents can lead to serious legal consequences. Campus surveillance, witness reports, or damage reports may identify your student—even days after the event.
What Happens at Boston College?
Even if the incident happened off-campus, Boston College may impose disciplinary measures. If drugs or alcohol were involved, or if the accident disrupted the community, the school can:
📋 Initiate a conduct investigation
🏠 Place the student on academic or housing probation
🚫 Suspend or remove privileges (e.g., leadership roles, sports eligibility)
This is especially likely if Newton police notify the college or if the charge becomes public.
🔗 Boston College Student Code of Conduct
What Parents Should Know
A common parental reaction is: "My child panicked—they didn't know what to do. Can this ruin their future?"
We understand. Your student is navigating a tough transition into adulthood, and a mistake shouldn't define their future. Here's what you should expect:
⚖️ A criminal case will begin in Newton District Court
🚗 Your child's license may be suspended
📚 They may also face a disciplinary hearing at BC
✅ There are options to avoid jail time, especially for first-time offenders
📂 Many cases can be resolved without a conviction—but only with the right legal strategy
How Newton District Court Handles These Cases
The typical process includes:
📜 Arraignment – Charges are formally presented
📑 Pre-trial Conference – Evidence is exchanged
🤝 Negotiations – Possible resolution through pre-trial probation
⚖️ Trial or Dismissal – If no deal is reached
We investigate:
🔍 Whether your student knew damage occurred
📋 If proper notice was given
📏 If the damage was minimal or unintentional
We also consider alternatives like:
💸 Restitution to the property owner
🤝 Community service
✅ Pre-trial diversion
Why Choose Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
Our team has a deep understanding of college student defense—especially in Newton District Court. We've helped Boston College students avoid convictions, maintain academic standing, and preserve their futures.
✅ Decades of combined criminal defense experience
✅ Familiarity with college conduct codes and local police
✅ Responsive, honest communication with parents and families
✅ Aggressive advocacy in and out of court
Contact Us Today for a Free, Confidential Case Review
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
📍 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 (857) 229-2442
We're available 24/7 to discuss urgent student cases. If your student is facing a Leaving the Scene of an Accident charge in Newton District Court, don't wait—call now for fast, strategic legal guidance.
🚨 URGENT: Facing a Leaving the Scene charge near Boston College? Call now for a free, confidential consultation.
