Fairfax County Reckless Driving Lawyer — What Is Your Best Defense?
Virginia Reckless Driving Statute
Virginia law defines reckless driving under multiple statutes, with Va. Code § 46.2-862 specifically addressing excessive speed. Driving 20 miles per hour or more over the posted limit, or exceeding 85 miles per hour regardless of the limit, constitutes reckless driving. This is a criminal charge, not a simple traffic infraction.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code § 46.2-862
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s reckless driving laws, see the official Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 46.2-862). The Fairfax County General District Court website provides court schedules, forms, and contact information.
Fairfax County Court Process for Reckless Driving
All reckless driving cases in Fairfax County begin at the Fairfax County General District Court. Virginia does not permit plea bargaining directly with the judge, but the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend charges before trial.
- Review your summons and understand the specific reckless driving statute cited.
- Gather evidence: driving record, speedometer calibration proof, witness statements.
- Consult with an experienced traffic attorney to plan your defense strategy.
- Appear at Fairfax County General District Court for your bench trial.
- If convicted, you have 10 days to appeal to Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Traffic Offenses in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, reckless driving carries up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, a 6-month license suspension, and 6 DMV demerit points.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving (≥85 mph or 20+ over) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension, 6 points | Permanent criminal record |
| Improper Driving (common reduction) | Traffic Infraction | None | Up to $500 | 3 points | No criminal record |
| Speeding (1-19 mph over) | Traffic Infraction | None | $30-$250+ | 3-6 points | Insurance increases |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Our Experience in Fairfax County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on providing case-specific defense strategies for traffic matters in Northern Virginia.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Case Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1132 documented results in Fairfax County traffic cases: 199 dismissed/not guilty, 861 reduced/amended, 54 other favorable outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Local Traffic Defense in Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fairfax County courts. We are a reckless driving lawyer near Fairfax County General District Court, accessible via major highways.
We serve the Fairfax County area and surrounding communities including Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and Falls Church.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Reckless driving in Fairfax County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 46.2-862, not a traffic ticket. It carries up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, a 6-month license suspension, and 6 DMV demerit points. Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
How much does a reckless driving ticket cost in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Prepayable traffic fines range $30-$250+; reckless driving is non-prepayable and requires court appearance. Court costs are approximately $62. A conviction also brings 6 DMV points, potential license suspension, and insurance increases exceeding $10,000 over years.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in Fairfax County?
Yes. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may amend reckless driving to improper driving (Va. Code § 46.2-869) or simple speeding. An attorney can negotiate this at Fairfax County General District Court. Completing a driver improvement clinic before court helps.
Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket in Fairfax County, Virginia?
If charged with reckless driving (20+ over or 85+ mph), you need a lawyer—it’s a Class 1 misdemeanor with jail risk. For simple speeding, an attorney can often negotiate reduced points and fines at Fairfax County General District Court.
What happens at a reckless driving court date in Fairfax County?
Your case at Fairfax County General District Court is a bench trial. The Commonwealth must prove your speed beyond reasonable doubt. You can present evidence like calibration certificates and witness testimony. The process from arraignment to trial takes 4-8 weeks.
Related Legal Resources
Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer Hub
Fairfax City Reckless Driving Lawyer | Falls Church Reckless Driving Lawyer
Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Fairfax County DUI/DWI Lawyer
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.