Phone: 703.777.6106 | Fax: 703.777.0015 | E-Mail
(Q) What must the Commonwealth prove to win a Reckless Driving conviction?
(A) A general charge of Reckless Driving is brought pursuant to Va. Code §46.2-852. However, there are 14 other situations in which someone may be charged with "Reckless Driving" (i.e. passing another vehicle at a railroad crossing; passing a stopped school bus; failure to yield right of way; etc.). Reckless Driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor crime.
In establishing violation of the general charge of Reckless Driving under §46.2-852, the Commonwealth bears the burden to prove that the defendant drove a vehicle on any highway or at speed or manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person. With respect to the other categories of Reckless Driving, the Commonwealth must prove the violative conduct.
(Q) What are the penalties for a Reckless Driving conviction?
(A) Effective legal representation is essential to limit or avoid the tough penalties associated with Reckless Driving. Potential penalties for Reckless Driving are extensive and increase in severity with respect to repeat offenders, aggravating circumstances, and driving history.
Penalties:
- Jail of up to 12 months.
- 6 months loss of license authorized.
- Fine of up to $2500 plus court costs.
(Q) Other than penalties provided by law, what are the other consequences of a Reckless Driving conviction?
(A) Beyond limiting criminal exposure, the importance of effective legal representation extends to the avoidance or limitation of other consequences of conviction. In addition to criminal sanctions, a Reckless Driving conviction imposes other harsh consequences. DMV will also assess points to your record (-6) for a conviction. Insurance premiums will increase. Additionally, many employers will refuse to hire someone who has been convicted of Reckless Driving or will terminate existing employment.
(Q) What will your office do to defend me?
(A) At the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., we will:
- Engage in an extensive consultation with you to review your arrest.
- Examine every aspect of your arrest for defects in process.
- Analyze all relevant legal documents to ensure compliance with the law.
- Secure all known evidence against you.
- Review and analyze whether the law enforcement officer properly charged you.
- Determine the defenses available to you.
- Determine opportunities for dismissal of the charge.
- Discuss your legal rights and options with you.
- Prepare your case for trial.
- Negotiate on your behalf with the Commonwealth to minimize penalties.
- Aggressively and diligently fight for you at trial. Please note that the aforementioned merely recites some elements of our defense.
(Q) Why is it important to be represented by an attorney?
(A) The charge of Reckless Driving is a serious, criminal matter that can have far reaching effects on many aspects of life, work and family. The Commonwealth has almost unlimited resources which they will use against you. Only an attorney skilled in legal procedure, trial strategy, and Reckless Driving, constitutional, and criminal law can level the playing field to fight for and protect your rights. Such an attorney has the knowledge necessary to win a dismissal of the charge or limit your exposure to sanctions. The high stakes nature of a Reckless Driving charge demands effective, aggressive, and skilled legal representation.
(Q) What legal fees are involved?
(A) In Reckless Driving matters, the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., charges for legal services by flat fee. Visa/MasterCard accepted.
Contact the Law Office of William R. F. Conners, P.C. for assistance with your, family law, criminal defense, personal injury claim, contract dispute or other legal matter. We would be honored to assist and serve you.
Free consultations offered by appointment ● Credit cards accepted
