August 28, 2025
Leaving the Scene of Property Damage
Clerk Magistrate Hearing
A hardworking pharmaceutical professional was cited for leaving the scene of an accident. While driving alone on a Sunday afternoon, he did almost strike a vehicle and came to a skidding stop. He was sure that he did not strike this car, despite her claim that there were marks in her bumper. Words were exchanged that were inflammatory according to the other person. In the end, he left the scene and eventually received a citation in the mail. As he was a prior client, he called Attorney Barabino right away who told him to bring the citation to the court within 4 days as that would permit him a magistrate hearing review to determine probable cause before the issuance of the criminal charge. He did that and was permitted an eventual hearing before the issuing police department and a neutral and detached court magistrate. At the hearing, Attorney Barabino presented a background memorandum and affidavit detailing necessary facts and background. He then swore in his client who, testifying with supporting photos and documentation of why there was no contact with the other vehicle and as a result, court should not move forward. The court agreed and Attorney Barabino client was successful in proving that there was no contact made.
RESULT: No Probable Cause Found, Case Dismissed. No Evidence of Any Court Involvement.