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Do I Need a Reckless Driving Attorney?
If you are charged with reckless driving in Virginia, you face fines, a criminal record, and in some cases, jail time. With that in mind, the decision to hire a reckless driving attorney should come down to your answer to this question:
Am I willing to risk the worst-case scenario by representing myself in a criminal case?
If you are not willing to risk it, hiring an experienced Virginia reckless driving lawyer can drastically increase your chances of a successful outcome. At S&R Law Firm, our criminal defense lawyers are skilled, proven, and ready to fight for you.
Whether it is your first reckless driving offense in Virginia or you’ve been charged before, we can help. Contact us today at 703-273-6431 for your free consultation.
Learn more about reckless driving charges in Virginia below.
Signs That You Should Hire a Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer
If convicted of reckless driving, you will have a criminal misdemeanor on your record. This is the reason why many clients reach out to us for a free reckless driving consultation. Additionally, because reckless driving is a jailable offense, you should consider hiring a Virginia reckless driving attorney. There are specific instances where hiring a criminal defense attorney is especially necessary. You should consider consulting with a lawyer if:
- You have previous charges on your record: If you have prior speeding tickets or reckless driving charges on your record (or other serious driving infractions), it could lead to increased punishment such as larger fines, a license suspension, and longer jail sentences (in some instances). An experienced attorney can help you to potentially avoid more severe penalties.
- You are an out-of-state driver: Visitors to Virginia from another state charged with reckless driving in VA are recommended to hire an attorney. In some cases, your lawyer can handle everything without you needing to appear in court at all.
- You caused an accident: If you caused an accident resulting in injuries to others, you could potentially face felony charges.
- You would like a consider having the charge reduced: Sometimes, the prosecution offers defendants a plea deal. A skilled Virginia reckless driving lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution and increase the likelihood of reduced or dismissed charges.
- You drive for work: If your livelihood depends on you maintaining a clear license (i.e., CDL, Lyft, and Uber drivers), it is generally not worth the risk of representing yourself.
Regardless of your situation, if you have been charged with reckless driving in Northern Virginia, hiring a Virginia reckless driving lawyer is your best option.
An attorney has a relationship with the prosecution and courts. They understand the intricacies of reckless driving charges in VA and how to defend against them. If you are unsure if you need legal representation, give us a call for a free consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reckless Driving in VA
Check out a few of the most asked questions after receiving a reckless driving charge. Click here or give us a call for additional answers to questions about how to beat a reckless driving ticket in Virginia.
Are Penalties for Reckless Driving in Virginia – First Offense Decreased?
Most states take reckless driving charges seriously, but not as seriously as Virginia. Generally, the penalties for a first offense reckless driving are on par with a first time DUI offense in VA.
This means that if convicted, you could go to jail for as long as 1-year and face fines up to $2,500. Additionally, your privilege to drive in Virginia can be suspended for up to six-months. Reckless driving remains a serious charge in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
How Long Does Reckless Driving Stay on Your Record?
A reckless driving conviction not only affects your criminal record, but it also affects your driving record. Generally, a reckless driving charge in Virginia stays on your DMV record for up to 11 years. Furthermore, they remain on your criminal record for life.
Can Reckless Driving Be Expunged in Virginia?
If convicted of reckless driving, you are not eligible for an expungement. To meet the requirements for expungement in Virginia, you must meet one of the following qualifications:
- You’re acquitted of reckless driving
- Your case is dismissed
- The Commonwealth decides not to prosecute your reckless driving charge
An experienced attorney will assess whether the prosecutor or police officer have enough evidence to convict you of reckless driving. A skilled attorney will assess the strength of the Commonwealth’s case. Additionally, an attorney can present a compelling argument on your behalf, ensure your rights are not violated, explain your options, and advocate for a dismissal or reduced charges.
How to Get a Reckless Driving Ticket Reduced in Virginia
Many of our clients ask, “Can you get a reckless driving ticket reduced?” Yes. There are many potential defenses to reckless driving charges in Virginia.
Not all reductions are equal. A ticket reduced from reckless driving can carry six, four, or three points. As a skilled Virginia reckless driving law firm, we are in a position to aim for the best possible outcome in your case. Generally, a judge can reduce reckless driving charges to “improper driving,” which is a lesser infraction. Also, improper driving does not affect your criminal record.
Depending on the circumstances of your case and your lawyer, your charges could be reduced by completing community service, attending a driver improvement clinic, or an agreement with the police officer. Before committing to a courses and community service, speak to a Virginia reckless driving attorney so make sure you are not wasting your time nor money.
A lawyer familiar with the local courts understands the tendencies of each judge, the Commonwealth, and its officers. After all, each court is unique.
Work With the Best Reckless Driving Attorney In Virginia
Reckless driving is a serious offense in Virginia. If convicted, you could lose your freedom, income, job, and more. Our Virginia reckless driving attorneys are prepared for any circumstances and are confident that we can help you.
Do not gamble with your future when you don’t have to. We are here to help.
Contact S&R Law Firm today at 703-273-6431 for your free initial consultation.