Leaving the Scene of an Accident – Boston College Student Defense
Experienced Legal Representation in Newton District Court
Being charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident is far more serious than most students realize. For a Boston College student, what may have started as panic, confusion, or fear can quickly turn into a criminal case in Newton District Court, along with potential disciplinary action from the university.
Me and my team here at the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett regularly defend Boston College students accused of hit-and-run offenses. We understand how Massachusetts law treats these cases—and how to protect both your legal record and your academic future.
What Constitutes Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts General Laws c. 90 § 24, a driver involved in an accident has a legal duty to:
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Stop immediately at the scene
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Provide name, address, and vehicle registration
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Render reasonable assistance if anyone is injured
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Report the accident when required
Failing to do any of these—even without bad intent—can result in criminal charges.
Two Types of Charges
Leaving the Scene – Property Damage Only
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Criminal misdemeanor
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Up to 2 years in jail
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Fines up to $200
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Mandatory license suspension
Leaving the Scene – Personal Injury
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Felony offense
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Potential jail or prison time
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Longer license suspension
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Permanent criminal record
How Boston College Students Get Charged
These cases commonly arise from:
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Parking lot accidents on or near campus
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Scraping or striking another vehicle and leaving
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Damage to fences, signs, mailboxes, or buildings
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Late-night incidents or unfamiliar neighborhoods
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Fear of police involvement or university discipline
Even if the damage seems minor, campus cameras, residential surveillance, or witness reports often lead police back to the student days—or even weeks—later.
Penalties and Long-Term Consequences
A Leaving the Scene conviction can affect far more than driving privileges. Consequences may include:
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Criminal record visible on background checks
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Loss or suspension of driver's license
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Jail time or probation
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Increased insurance costs
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Barriers to internships, graduate school, or employment
For students, the long-term damage often outweighs the immediate penalties.
Impact on Boston College Standing
Boston College may initiate its own disciplinary process, even if the incident occurred off campus. Under the Student Code of Conduct, the university may review:
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Conduct involving alcohol or drugs
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Behavior that violates local or state law
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Actions affecting community safety
Possible consequences include:
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Disciplinary probation
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Housing or academic restrictions
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Loss of scholarships or leadership roles
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Suspension in more serious cases
University discipline can move forward regardless of how the criminal case ends.
What Parents Should Expect
Parents often ask:
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Will this appear on my child's transcript?
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Will Boston College find out?
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Can this be dismissed or sealed?
Here's what you should know:
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A criminal case will begin in Newton District Court
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License suspension is common at the outset
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The school may open a parallel conduct case
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First-time student offenders often have options to avoid conviction
Early legal intervention makes a critical difference.
The Newton District Court Process
Most cases proceed through:
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Arraignment – Charges are formally entered
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Pre-trial hearings – Evidence and police reports reviewed
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Negotiation or diversion – Possible pre-trial probation or dismissal
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Trial – If resolution cannot be reached
Our defense strategy may focus on:
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Whether your student knew an accident occurred
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Whether actual damage or injury existed
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Mistaken identity or lack of proof
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Cooperation, restitution, or alternative resolutions
Can the Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?
In many student cases, yes. Depending on the facts, options may include:
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Pre-trial probation or diversion
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Dismissal after restitution
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Reduction of charges
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Record sealing after resolution
Me and my team work aggressively to keep these cases off a student's permanent record whenever possible.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Me and my team here at the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett focus on defending college students facing criminal charges in Massachusetts. Families trust us because we offer:
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Extensive experience in Newton District Court
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Deep understanding of Boston College conduct procedures
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Strategic defense for first-time student offenders
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Clear communication with both students and parents
We don't just defend the case—we protect the future.
Speak With a Boston College Student Defense Lawyer Today
Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
📍 572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 857.229.2442
If your Boston College student is facing a Leaving the Scene of an Accident charge, time matters. Contact me and my team today for a confidential consultation and a clear plan to protect your child's record, education, and future.
