Pleading guilty to reckless driving in virginia A conviction results in 6 demerit points on your driving record Reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense and not a traffic violation in Virginia. This is not a minor traffic infraction. There are often defenses Jan 24, 2025 · How serious is a reckless driving charge? Read about your state laws and possible criminal penalties of a conviction in this article by FindLaw. This would require working with a Virginia May 30, 2018 · If you’re charged with reckless driving in Virginia, the police will give you a ticket and ask to sign it. Reducing a reckless driving charge is often possible through strategic legal approaches, including presenting mitigating evidence and negotiating plea bargains with § 8. However, a reckless driving charge usually gets you a ticket and a request from the police officer to sign it. What Counts as Reckless Driving in Virginia? A Comprehensive Legal Guide For drivers traversing the Commonwealth of Virginia, understanding the nuances of traffic law is paramount, particularly concerning offenses as serious as reckless driving. Unlike a simple speeding ticket, a conviction for reckless driving can lead to jail time, substantial fines, and the suspension of your driving privileges. There are also two courthouses in Richmond, and that matters, as well. Understand Virginia's reckless driving penalties, fines, and jail time. Before making this choice, individuals should carefully consider the potential impact My name is Andrew Flusche. If you cannot locate the answer to your specific question, please give us Key Takeaways on Reckless Driving Ticket Reduction in Virginia: Reckless driving in Virginia is a serious Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying potential jail time, significant fines, and license suspension, impacting your criminal record. Your improvement clinic, and insurance provider on you record, to complete day-long eventually driver lead to Using a No Contest Plea to Your Benefit is likely to raise your rates. May 30, 2018 · Reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense in Virginia with penalties that include possible jail time and hefty fines. The proper mis of community service and driver improvement school helps in that regard. 2-862. This is different from reckless driving cases in Virginia, where you are required to appear in court, regardless of whether you plan to plead guilty or not. 2-852—in exchange for a guilty plea. Read about Virginia’s reckless and improper driving laws and the consequences of a conviction, including fines, jail time, and license suspension. Pleading a wet and reckless driving charge may only be available for first-time offenders. Learn about the laws, penalties, and strategies from a seasoned VA attorney. This law firm website and legal marketing are managed by MileMark Dec 9, 2024 · In Virginia, signing a reckless driving ticket does not mean you are pleading guilty. g. 2-869. However, such a plea could resurface in the form of job applications, security clearances, etc. And finally its your turn to testify. Traffic school is usually unavailable in these matters, and because of the aforementioned consequences, pleading guilty and paying a fine isn’t an option either. Key Takeaways on Virginia Reckless Driving Penalties A Crime, Not a Ticket: Reckless driving in Virginia is a Class 1 Misdemeanor, the most serious class of misdemeanor, carrying the same severity as a DUI or assault. Hiring a Virginia traffic attorney could well lead to a more favorable result. Anxious or worried about jail time or losing driving privileges? We have the answers. Oct 24, 2024 · How Much Does a Reckless Driving Lawyer in Virginia Cost Pleading Guilty to Reckless Driving in Virginia Options to Plead in Virginia Reckless Driving Cases Continue reading The Supreme Court reversed the judgment of the court of appeals reversing a misdemeanor conviction based upon a jury verdict finding Defendant guilty of reckless driving, holding that the court of appeals erroneously held as a matter of law that no rational jury could have found Defendant guilty of reckless driving. (1) The most common form of reckless driving is speeding 20+ over the speed limit; § 46. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor in WV and can carry penalties like fines, license suspension, and even jail time—especially if there are prior violations or aggravating factors. Feb 14, 2024 · What Determines the Cost for a Reckless Driving Lawyer in Virginia? The body content of your post goes here. Considering pleading guilty to reckless driving in Virginia? Learn about the consequences, alternatives, and the importance of legal representation in this comprehensive guide. Individuals who are convicted of reckless driving can face jail time, steep fines, license suspension, and other consequences that impact their life, their finances, and their freedom. Jan 22, 2025 · A plea bargain is an agreement between the defendant (the person accused of a crime) and the prosecutor (the government lawyer) where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge or to receive a reduced sentence in exchange for not going to trial. I literally wrote the book on reckless driving in Virginia which you can get on Amazon here or download for free here. If you are unhappy with the outcome of your case, you have the absolute right to appeal it to the Circuit Court. Hurt explains what to expect in court and how legal counsel can protect your rights. 2-266 or any local ordinance substantially similar thereto unintentionally causes the death of another person, shall be guilty of involuntary manslaughter. Every person convicted of reckless driving under the provisions of this article who, when he committed the offense, (i) was driving without a valid operator's license due to a suspension or revocation for a moving violation and, (ii Feb 14, 2024 · Options to Plead in Virginia Reckless Driving Cases The body content of your post goes here. The state of Virginia outlines who cannot get their reckless driving conviction expunged. So if you are charged with a Reckless Driving, say for speeding 20+mph over the limit, if you are convicted, the Court documents will say “Guilty – Reckless Driving”, but it will not be on your Criminal Record. One factor will be the specific jurisdiction that you are charged in, and how they generally handle these cases. If charged, you can expect to face fines, loss of driving privileges, and even jail time. Understand Virginia reckless driving costs, fines, and penalties. For anyone facing such a Oct 30, 2024 · What Is a "Wet Reckless"? A DUI plea bargain might involve a defendant pleading guilty to a DUI charge in exchange for the prosecution agreeing to fines and jail time below the allowable maximums. 2-862) and reckless driving based on being involved in an accident (46. Fight Ticket (Plead Not Guilty) Contest traffic ticket in court Choose to represent yourself during trial or hire an attorney No penalties if found guilty, but must pay court/attorney fees If found guilty, incur points on driving record and possible increase in car insurance rates If found guilty, possible option to take eight-hour driving improvement clinic to reduce demerit points Learn more Charged with a crime? Speak to an experienced Virginia criminal lawyer at Scrofano Law PC. But there are exceptions. Certain conduct punishable as involuntary manslaughter. However, you may not realize that you have the option of pleading no contest. A person is guilty of reckless driving who drives a motor vehicle on the highways in the Commonwealth (i) at a speed of 20 miles per hour or more in excess of the applicable maximum speed limit or (ii) in excess of 85 miles per hour regardless of the applicable maximum speed limit. It is a Class 1 Misdemeanor, exposing you to significant penalties that can include jail time, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record that impacts your life for years. To keep May 18, 2017 · Penalties for a Guilty Plea sentence revocation admitted or suspension. The general definition, found in Virginia Code § 46. I opened my practice in 2008 after earning my Juris Doctor degree from the University of Virginia School of Law. I was summoned to appear before the court under the charge of reckless driving (92/65). Code 46. If you’ve been charged with reckless driving by speed on I-495 or I-395 in Alexandria, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what happens next. Jun 9, 2025 · Appealing Your Traffic Ticket in Virginia Can I appeal my traffic ticket? If you are convicted of reckless driving, driving under the influence (DUI), or any other traffic charge in General District Court (GDC), you automatically have the right to appeal the conviction to Circuit Court. Legal Representation: A Virginia traffic attorney can negotiate to reduce the charge, possibly to improper driving, which has lighter penalties. If accepted, you will plead guilty or no contest to this lesser offense in exchange for the corresponding lower penalties. apply the full array of penalties allowable under law. Jun 3, 2025 · Is reckless driving a felony in Virginia? Learn when it’s a misdemeanor or felony, what penalties apply, and how a defense lawyer can help. When facing reckless driving charges, you have many choices: Plead guilty and accept the charges Try to negotiate the sentencing on your own Hire an attorney and build a defense case But with high stakes, it’s best to choose to hire an attorney to represent you if you’re facing Pleading guilty to a class 1 misdemeanor, you can expect a reckless driving charge to remain there for 11 years. Reckless driving is a class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, carrying serious consequences, including possible jail time, fines, and license suspension. 2-36. However, having your DUI dropped to reckless driving requires representation by a skilled Virginia DUI defense lawyer who enjoys a sterling reputation with Virginia judges and local prosecutors. If you are convicted of reckless driving in Virginia, you could lose your license for up to six months. Is a Reckless driving really a criminal offense? For going 80 in a 70mph zone? Yes it is. ” This broad language grants law enforcement significant discretion. ? Please help me Criminal defense Criminal conviction Criminal record Asked in Emporia, VA| Sep 23, 2018 | 1 answer Ask your own question Many reckless driving charges are resolved through entering into a plea agreement in Virginia. Introduction Have We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Speaking to an attorney allows you to explore your specific circumstances surrounding your charge including but not limited to possible defenses, weaknesses in your case, reduced punishments, and even a reduced charge given your criminal In addition to the specific reckless driving offenses, there are 2 “general” offenses: § 46. 2-266 is dismissed, the expired Other violations include driving with a revoked permit, reckless driving, driving while inebriated, and murder. In these situations, you will have a criminal record that includes this driving infraction. How to prepay your Virginia prepayable offense? In Virginia, some traffic offenses like speeding are prepayable. Call 888-437-7747. Mar 6, 2024 · Many times, depending on the circumstances, a reckless driving charge can be plead don to a dismissal or a lesser charge. So, what are the penalties for reckless driving in Virginia? The penalties for the class 1 misdemeanor are a fine up to $2,500, 6-month license suspension, and up to 12 months in jail. If pleading guilty or no contest is your only option, you can request to take a driving safety course. Plea Choices: You can plead guilty, not guilty, or seek a plea deal. . 2-852: “Irrespective of the maximum speeds permitted by law, any person who drives a vehicle on any highway recklessly or at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person shall be guilty of reckless driving. ” Apr 8, 2021 · All parties who plead guilty to a wet and reckless driving charge work with the prosecuting attorney to determine the terms of your guilty plea. What Happens if You Plead Guilty to Reckless Driving in Virginia? We have discussed the criminal penalties you face if you plead guilty to reckless driving in Virginia. A review of the surrounding states’ reckless driving statutes revealed that Virginia’s statutory reckless driving scheme is the most punitive. When you plead guilty, you are agreeing to a criminal record…for life. You probably understand the difference between pleading guilty and not guilty. sentence exchange otherwise One of the most advantageous ways to avoid a DUI conviction is entering a DUI plea bargain to reckless driving. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source. Learn the laws, penalties, and defenses from a 20-year seasoned attorney. How Long Does a Reckless Driving Stay on Record? Under Virginia law, a conviction for reckless driving will remain on your Virginia driving record for 11 years. Instead of fighting a DUI charge, for instance, you may opt to plead guilty to a count of reckless driving, a less serious offense. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor. 2-853). Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this article, upon the trial of any person charged with reckless driving where the degree of culpability is slight, the jury or the court trying the case without a jury may find the accused not guilty of reckless driving but guilty of improper driving. Finally, you should note that failure to appear in court is in itself a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. Any person who, as a result of driving under the influence in violation of clause (ii), (iii), or (iv) of § 18. Pleading guilty to reckless driving in Virginia is a significant decision with legal and personal implications. Pleading guilty or no contest can lead to a permanent criminal record. Having an attorney present at first appearance shows how serious your taking it and your attorney may be able to get a lesser plea that instead of further burdening the commonwealth. A. It’s important to understand what happens if you comply with this request § 18. I have got a Reckless driving Summon with the Law Section 14-76/A46. If you have been charged with following too closely, my suggestion to you is to make the Commonwealth prove its case. This was a minor accident. Many of these individuals are unaware of the severe consequences of a first offense reckless driving ticket in Virginia. 2-852, states that “Irrespective of the maximum speeds permitted by law, any person who drives a vehicle upon a highway recklessly or at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person shall be guilty of reckless driving. If you complete this course Pleading guilty to reckless driving in Virginia charges is a significant legal decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. I limit my practice to traffic tickets and misdemeanor defense, so I know the ins and outs of these offenses. Every person convicted of reckless driving under the provisions of this article is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor. Improper driving; penalty. A first offense can result in significant penalties, including jail time, substantial fines up to $2,500, a criminal record, and potential driver’s license suspension. Are you pleading guilty if you do so? If you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense in Virginia, you will need to enter a plea to the crime you are accused of committing. Understand the full scope of this formal legal admission. Reckless driving by speed is NOT a simple speeding ticket, and it is not on the Virginia prepayable offenses information sheet. The states surrounding Virginia, namely Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia, all treat reckless driving as a traffic infraction. Reckless driving in Virginia is a serious offense, and the penalties can be severe, ranging from hefty fines to jail time. The penalties aren't as severe as in a DUI in the state of Virginia Navigating the Virginia Reckless Driving Court Process: A Comprehensive Guide Reckless driving in Virginia is not merely a traffic infraction; it is a criminal offense that carries severe and lasting consequences. Speeding is a traffic infraction, and it doesn't carry jail time. Virginia courts penalize reckless driving as aClass 1 misdemeanor. 01-418. Exceeding speed limit - A person shall be guilty of reckless driving who drives a motor vehicle on the highways in the Commonwealth (i) at a speed of twenty miles per hour or more in excess of the applicable maximum speed limit where the applicable speed limit is thirty miles per hour or less, (ii Aug 22, 2015 · Pleading no contest or guilty does not necessarily mean that the judge will convict you of the reckless driving then and there, although it is possible. Reckless driving remains on your Virginia driving record for 11 years. 285. ” Prepaying a reckless driving ticket in VA is generally not an option and is equivalent to pleading guilty, which can have severe, long-term consequences on your driving record, insurance, and even employment. Additionally, if a Virginia court finds you guilty of reckless driving the DMV will place six demerit points on your license. The maximum penalties for a reckless driving conviction in Virginia are: Six (6) DMV points; $2,500 fine; 6 months driver’s license suspension; and 12 months jail time. If your driver’s license is issued by a state other than Virginia Charged with reckless driving? Reckless is a misdemeanor criminal charge, not just a traffic ticket. Simply showing up and pleading guilty could result in fines, license suspension, or even jail time. Reckless driving in Virginia is a serious criminal offense. Mar 29, 2021 · Reckless driving is a criminal offense in Virginia. In addition, a guilty plea or plea of no contest would result in a permanent criminal record. For example, if a juvenile was arrested for a first violation of Va. Thanks. Offering an "Alford Plea" is also considered a guilty plea. Consult with a Virginia reckless driving lawyer to get a clearer picture of what fees and costs may be associated with your case. Jun 13, 2025 · A guilty plea for reckless driving in Virginia has impacts that extend beyond the courtroom. Jul 2, 2024 · This could involve pleading guilty to a lesser charge, such as reckless driving, in exchange for reduced penalties. As Virginia reckless driving defense attorneys, we fight to protect you from the harsh consequences of a reckless driving conviction. How to Prepare for Traffic Court in Virginia While traffic offenses and charges may seem minor, the traffic division takes them very seriously. Where Will Your Case Be Heard If You Go to Court? Apr 28, 2025 · A: Facing a reckless driving charge in West Virginia is serious, and it’s good that you’re thinking carefully before deciding how to respond. 08% or higher, resulting in the immediate seven-day suspension, but later pleads guilty to and is found guilty of reckless driving and the original charge under Va. You are waiving your right to a trial and a defense and accepting the full weight of a criminal conviction without any opportunity to argue for a lesser charge. Aug 4, 2023 · In Virginia, criminal citations for reckless driving are far more serious than a simple traffic ticket. You pled guilty You were convicted You pled nolo contender or no contest You entered an Alfred plea The judge deferred or dismissed your charges after the successful completion of an educational course The judge Customer: As I was trying to pass three lorries on I-81 in Virginia, I was asked by a traffic policeman to pull over. Edit: the limit for reckless driving is 85 in Virginia (or 20 over, which is still 85 in my case), please stop telling me it’s 80. Feb 6, 2018 · Yes, as mentioned, paying and pleading guilty for reckless driving admits guilt to a Class 1 Misdemeanor. In other words, you will be convicted of a class 1 misdemeanor offense. Severe Criminal Penalties: A conviction can result in up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both, as defined by Va. What are the different consequences if i opt for Plea of guilty and pay fine in time . Note that reckless driving is a criminal conviction - equal in severity to a DUI, so think carefully on how you Reckless driving is a surprisingly serious charge with harsh penalties in Virginia. This is considered the same as pleading guilty as far as the conviction is concerned. 2‐852 describes the offense as “any person who drives a vehicle on any highway recklessly or at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger life, limb, or property of any person shall be guilty of reckless driving. It is very easy to be charged with reckless driving, simply by traveling more than 20 mph over the speed limit! Oct 4, 2021 · In Virginia, reckless driving includes speeding 20 mph or more over the limit, exceeding 85 mph, or driving in a manner that endangers others. A wet reckless charge gives the judge more discretion in whether to issue a restricted drivers license, rather than suspend it Facing a reckless driving charge? The Law Offices of Mark T. Note the use of the word ‘conviction’. 3888. You should not be able to prepay a reckless driving, and give yourself a permanent criminal record. You also cannot appeal if you plead guilty to the reckless driving charge or a reduced charge, because pleading guilty automatically waives your right to appeal. Learn the benefits of a plea bargain and how one can help you. There are many different types of plea deals that can help lessen the severity of your charges. Your best option? Hire an experienced Weiland Button reckless driving attorney to protect your record, finances, and future. Understanding the full scope of these consequences is the first A Virginia reckless driving charge is more than a ticket—it's a crime. In very serious cases, it can be charged as a felony. Considering pleading guilty to reckless driving in Virginia? Learn the consequences, legal process, and strategies. Reckless Driving is not a traffic infraction, it is a misdemeanor. Most statutes dealing with reckless driving in Virginia outline specific offenses, but vague or subjective reckless driving crimes exist. Overview of Reckless Driving In Virginia In this overview of Reckless Driving in Virginia I address the different types of Reckless Driving in Virginia, the consequences of a conviction, and whether you need a lawyer to represent you in court for this charge. In order for an offense to show up on someone’s criminal record, they would have to be fingerprinted. Facing a reckless driving charge in Virginia? This guide explains the law, potential felony/misdemeanor impacts, and strategies to minimize fines, points, and jail. Mar 3, 2025 · Understand how Virginia defines reckless driving, its legal consequences, and how it can impact your record, license, and future opportunities. Understanding the state’s reckless driving laws, assessing the decision to plead Reckless driving in Virginia is a class 1 misdemeanor and carries a variety of possible punishments and serious long-term consequences. Mar 3, 2025 · Plea negotiations often occur during this phase, with prosecutors sometimes offering reduced charges—such as reckless driving under Va. You should really speak to an attorney before doing anything to make sure you aren’t admitting to something that could easily be dismissed or reduced, saving you thousands of dollars and a permanent criminal record. Severe Penalties: A conviction can result in up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a driver’s license suspension of up to six months. If you’re caught going too fast or driving carelessly, you could face jail time, fines, or even lose your license. I m from different country . Unlike when you are arrested for other misdemeanor offenses, you are not placed in handcuffs and hauled off to jail for reckless driving. If you have an otherwise clean driving record, your Virginia traffic attorney can use that as mitigating evidence in the reckless driving case. 《not a lawyer so Should you enter into a plea agreement in your reckless driving case? Learn the pros and cons of plea bargains you need to consider when making this decision. Beginning in 2007, Virginia drivers convicted of reckless driving were forced to pay excessive fees ($750-$3,000) according to the law. If, in addition, the conduct of the defendant was so Key Takeaways: Virginia Reckless Driving Record A reckless driving conviction in Virginia can remain on your driving record for 11 years for DMV purposes, impacting your points and insurance. No, you are not pleading guilty if you are charged with reckless driving in Virginia and sign the ticket. I drove down to Fredericksburg, plead guilty, got my ticket dismissed after completing an online traffic school. Apr 16, 2021 · The Specific Section of Virginia Code for Reckless Driving is 46. Frequency of Speeding Tickets in Virginia This article will explain everything you need to know about how to beat a reckless driving ticket in Virginia, including the nature of a reckless driving charge, possible legal penalties and potential defense strategies. Reckless driving; penalties. An experienced SRIS attorney explains the full implications and what to expect. Where Will Your Case Be Heard If You Go To Court? Speeding tickets are heard in the general district court of whatever jurisdiction the driver was pulled over. When plea of guilty or nolo contendere, finding of guilt in absentia, or forfeiture in criminal prosecution or traffic case admissible in civil action; proof of such plea, finding, or forfeiture. This plea allows you to maintain your innocence while accepting criminal responsibility for your This is different than reckless driving because with reckless driving you are required to show up in court regardless of whether you are pleading guilty or not guilty. Mandatory License Suspension Mar 30, 2018 · After pleading guilty to a wet reckless, you will have to serve some jail time then, following that, go to a VASAP session in order to be educated on the dangers of drunk driving. Where Will Your Case Be Heard? A Virginia reckless driving ticket is a criminal misdemeanor violation. Mar 22, 2023 · Guide to Reckless Driving in Virginia The body content of your post goes here. A few days later, I wrote to the Court to tell them that I'll plead guilty. Your first trial for a Virginia reckless driving ticket happens in the General District Court (assuming you’re an adult). Facing reckless driving charges in Virginia? Understand potential jail time, fines, and license penalties. Still reported it for my SF-86, though. Get defense strategies from a seasoned attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P. Get seasoned legal insight from SRIS, P. clarifies the penalties and helps you navigate this speed violation with a knowledgeable attorney. Dec 10, 2013 · The Risk of Pleading Without Legal Advice Many drivers assume a minor accident won’t lead to a conviction, but courts apply Virginia’s strict traffic laws. In most Northern Virginia cases, judges and prosecutors will take a clean driving history into account during sentencing or plea negotiations. , which may ask if you have ever pleaded as such to a criminal violation (even though you may not Nov 9, 2016 · A DUI attorney, on the other hand, can help you with plea deals and sentence bargaining. I got an almost identical one many years ago as a law student in the same area. Code § 46. How Do I Get a Reckless Driving Ticket Reduced in Virginia? There are many ways that the charges on your reckless driving ticket may be reduced or possibly dismissed. § 46. If you pay a reckless driving ticket, you are pleading guilty to the offense. Because of the additional direct and indirect consequences, a Leesburg criminal defense lawyer should always deal with reckless driving citations. By contesting your speeding ticket, you can better protect your driving record and reduce the effect on your insurance rates. If you already have points on your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) driving record, you could lose your license for even longer. A reckless driving attorney can explain how actions such as tailgating or distracted driving can also lead to charges. If this is your first time being summoned to Alexandria’s General District Court (GDC), understanding the process and Oct 2, 2022 · Why plead guilty to “wet reckless?” Reckless driving in Virginia carries lesser penalties compared to a DWI. Charged with Reckless Driving in Virginia? A Class 1 misdemeanor is serious. 13 per se, or strict, reckless driving offenses in Virginia. 2-868. For a reckless driving charge in Virginia, pre-paying is the equivalent of walking into court and pleading guilty to a Class 1 Misdemeanor. 2-862 . More Frequently Asked Questions here. " now 20mph over posted speeds is automatic reckless. According to the Code of Virginia, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. Having an attorney is often beneficial because they will be well-versed in the laws of Virginia. Penalties can include significant fines (up to $2,500), jail time (up to 12 months), and mandatory license suspension (up to 6 months). Since then, I have earned over 600 5-star reviews from happy clients on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Many drivers are surprised to learn that what might be a simple speeding ticket in another state can result in a misdemeanor charge here. Find out how to keep your record clean with a legal consultation. For drivers without egregious conduct—such as excessively high The penalties for a Virginia reckless driving conviction can be harsh. Jan 31, 2017 · This timeframe is one of the biggest barriers to appeals and underscores the importance of contacting a reckless driving attorney as soon as possible. Anything over 80 is called "reckless by speed" (or was back then) and is technically a misdemeanor charge. Key Takeaways: Reckless Driving in Virginia Reckless driving in Virginia is categorized as a Class 1 or Class 2 misdemeanor, making it a serious criminal offense, not merely a traffic infraction. The criminal conviction itself is permanent on your court record unless successfully expunged, which is a rare and challenging process for convictions. , amend Reckless Driving to Improper Driving or simple speeding) or recommending a specific outcome to the judge in exchange for a guilty or no contest plea. First Offense Reckless Driving in Virginia | Arlington, Fairfax, and Alexandria A common question is whether first-time reckless driving offenders receive reduced penalties in Virginia. However, it is important to carefully weigh the pros and cons of accepting a plea deal, as it will still result in a conviction on your record. There are two ways to commit reckless driving: you can either. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. A traffic case in Virginia typically begins when a law enforcement officer cites a traffic violation by road users. What happens when you get a reckless driving ticket in Virginia? In this post you will learn what happens when you get the ticket all the way to court. Understanding the consequences, the legal process This could involve agreeing to reduce the charge (e. Most often when you’re charged with a misdemeanor, you’re arrested. Virginia Code § 46. It is not there for good reason. Facing a first-offense reckless driving charge in Virginia? Law Offices Of SRIS, P. I opened my practice in 2008 after earning my Juris Doctor degree from the Many people who have been cited for reckless driving or arrested for drunk driving in Virginia have common questions, and our Manassas DUI defense lawyers developed this section on our website to educate, inform and help you through this difficult time. All too often, our Virginia reckless driving lawyers see defendants without legal representation pleading guilty to reckless driving in court. Pleading guilty to reckless driving in Virginia is a serious decision that can have long-lasting consequences. I am a traffic and misdemeanor defense lawyer in Virginia. I’m also just trying to understand how court works and when I am able to plead my case, not if I should get a lawyer. Lasting Record: A conviction creates a With that said doing so is equal to pleading guilty and means you are at the mercy of whatever punishment you are given. Our seasoned attorneys explain legal consequences, points, and defense strategies in VA. For reckless driving or another type of criminal charge, it is mandatory that you show up to court as your charge could carry jail time or other serious penalties. Should I Plead Guilty to Following Too Closely or Contest it? Guest post by Peter John Louie, a Traffic Defense Attorney who practices in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and the greater Tidewater area. Key Takeaways: Virginia Reckless Driving Penalties A reckless driving conviction in Virginia is a Class 1 Misdemeanor, a criminal offense with serious implications, not just a traffic ticket. A Reckless Driving conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying severe penalties. It is critical to understand how the court process works as a defendant. When you are asked by a college, a recruiter, or an employer for example, if you have a criminal record, you must truthfully answer yes. Have you been cited for a serious traffic offense in Virginia like aggressive or reckless driving? Get help and protect your driver's license. Apr 16, 2024 · Reckless driving charges can stay on your record for up to 11 years, although your experienced reckless driving lawyer may be able to reduce this even if you are found guilty of breaking the law. Facing a reckless driving charge in Virginia? Understand the court process, potential penalties, and how a seasoned attorney can help. But I didn't explain the exact circumstances of my speeding Facing Virginia reckless driving speed charges? Get a seasoned attorney's guide on statutes, penalties, defenses, and the legal process. B. Sep 21, 2015 · In a "wet reckless" you plead guilty to reckless driving with alcohol involved. Jun 18, 2025 · More on these things below. Have you been arrested for reckless driving in Virginia? Find out what you need to know about plea bargaining and how a reckless driving lawyer can help you. For this The two most common reckless driving charges include reckless driving based on speed (VA Law 46. They may have long-term implications if you are convicted, including jail time, fines, and demerit points on your driving license. Do not plead guilty. Six month license suspension for a wet reckless charge, compared to a 1-year administrative suspension for a Virginia drunk driving or DWI charge. To avoid this worst-case scenario, we urge you to talk to a reckless driving defense attorney before pleading guilty or going to court. NOTICE: Before you plead guilty to reckless driving in Virginia, call our experienced Virginia reckless driving lawyers for a FREE legal consultation at 804. My answer would be the same whether you were facing a reckless driving Many people choose to simply plead guilty to reckless driving charges in Virginia. The Severe Consequences of a Reckless Driving Conviction in Virginia A conviction for reckless driving in Virginia carries far more than a simple fine. 2-852 or 46. Often misunderstood as merely a speeding ticket, reckless driving in Virginia is, in fact, a criminal offense, a Class 1 Misdemeanor, with potentially If you plead "nolo contendere" (no contest) you stated that while you do not wish to plead guilty you agree that the prosecutor has sufficient evidence that the court would find you guilty. 1. 2-266 because their breath test revealed a BAC of 0. A conviction can lead to jail time, fines, a criminal record, increased insurance rates, and even job-related consequences. Defense Options: Your attorney may use a clean driving record or evidence like speedometer calibration to argue for leniency. There are two ways to deal with Virginia traffic tickets: you can plead guilty and pay the fine, or you can plead not guilty and attempt to get your ticket dismissed. Jan 4, 2021 · In Virginia, reckless driving is a class 1 misdemeanor and could result in you having your license revoked. I also give an overview of some defenses that can be used in a Reckless Driving case, and address a few other commonly asked questions § 46. When you are facing a challenging case, look for your answers here. Key Takeaways on Virginia Reckless Driving Penalties Criminal Offense: Reckless driving in Virginia is a Class 1 Misdemeanor, the most serious class of misdemeanor, not just a simple traffic ticket. Reckless driving, unlike other traffic violations, is a criminal offense in the state of Virginia. It differs from reckless driving, where you must appear in court regardless of your plea. 2-852 Reckless driving is considered a misdemeanor in Virginia, carrying penalties like fines and even jail time. Code § 18. C. Call (804) 355-8037 for a free Customer: I was pulled over for reckless driving in Northern Virginia is it possible to plead guilty with an explanation? Or ask for a probation before judgement? Lawyer's Assistant: Do you need to appear in court? Customer: Yes the officer did not check the box where I can just pay the fine. Call today for a confidential consultation. You can use a no contest plea for a negotiate the process. Let’s unpack exactly what reckless Because reckless driving in Virginia has the potential for jail time it's best if you do consult an attorney to navigate your potential options. In other cases, a plea bargain might involve the prosecution dismissing the DUI charge and the defendant entering a plea to a less serious charge. We can help! (804) 673-7111 Jul 23, 2025 · Reckless driving in Virginia isn’t just a serious traffic violation—it’s a criminal offense. 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