VC 20002 misdemeanor
Clearing a hit and run conviction
Property-damage hit and run is a misdemeanour that clears well. The complication is that it is a Vehicle Code offence, which puts it in the same discretionary bucket as a DUI.
What makes this charge different
- As a Vehicle Code offence it falls within the discretionary part of PC 1203.4, like a DUI
- Section 20001, where someone was injured, is a wobbler and a materially more serious charge
- The DMV record and any points are untouched by a dismissal
- Restitution to the other driver is common, and does not bar the petition
What this charge is
Vehicle Code 20002 covers leaving the scene of an accident involving damage to property. Section 20001 is the version where someone was injured or killed, and that is a wobbler and a far more serious matter.
Felony or misdemeanour?
Property-damage hit and run under 20002 is a misdemeanour. Injury hit and run under 20001 is a wobbler.
Which relief applies
After probation, the petition goes under Penal Code 1203.4. Because it is a Vehicle Code offence, relief is in the court's discretion rather than mandatory — the same position as a DUI. In practice these are granted regularly.
The thing to watch out for
The DMV. A dismissal does not affect your driving record, any points, or an insurance surcharge. If what you actually need is the DMV consequence to go away, this petition will not deliver it and we will tell you so before you buy anything.
The law that applies
- Expungement (PC 1203.4) — The court lets you withdraw your plea or sets aside the verdict, then dismisses the case, which releases you from most of the penalties of the conviction.
Our flat fee for a case like this is $599, all in, with the court filing fee included. What that covers.
Common questions
Does this clear the points off my licence?
No. A dismissal is a criminal court order and does not reach the DMV record. Points fall off on the DMV's own schedule.
Someone was hurt in my case. Is it different?
Yes, materially. That is Vehicle Code 20001, a wobbler, and a more serious conviction. It needs an attorney to look at the record.
Legal information on this page was last checked against primary sources in October 2026. California law changes; if you are reading this long after that date, confirm before you rely on it.