Norfolk VA Reckless Driving By Speed Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A Norfolk VA Reckless Driving By Speed Lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for charges under Va. Code § 46.2-862. In Norfolk, reckless driving by speed is a Class 1 misdemeanor with potential jail time. Our firm has documented results in Norfolk General District Court. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Law on Reckless Driving by Speed
Virginia law treats excessive speed as a serious criminal offense, not a simple traffic ticket. The statute specifically defines reckless driving by speed as operating a vehicle 20 mph or more over the posted speed limit, or at a speed of 85 mph or more regardless of the limit. This charge requires a strategic defense from a Norfolk VA Reckless Driving By Speed Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026 | Norfolk (City) General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 46.2-862 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures, visit the Virginia Courts website.
Local Court Process for a Norfolk Reckless Driving Charge
Your case will begin at the Norfolk General District Court. The local procedural fact is that Norfolk (City) General District Court handles traffic matters for Norfolk and surrounding areas. Contact the clerk for local scheduling requirements. A focused defense often examines the calibration records of the speed-measuring device and the officer’s training.
- Receive your summons with a court date for Norfolk General District Court.
- Consult with a Norfolk VA Reckless Driving By Speed Lawyer to review the evidence and your driving record.
- Your attorney may file pre-trial motions to challenge the evidence or seek discovery.
- Attend your arraignment and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Prepare for and attend a bench trial, or negotiate a favorable plea agreement.
- If convicted in GDC, you have 10 days to file an appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Reckless Driving by Speed in Norfolk
In Norfolk, reckless driving by speed 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 (≥20 over or ≥85 mph) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible 6-month suspension, 6 DMV points | Criminal record, increased insurance rates |
| Improper Driving (Common Reduction) | Traffic Infraction | None | Fine only | 3 DMV points | No criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Norfolk Traffic Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of a Norfolk reckless driving charge and work to protect your driving privileges and record. Our approach is grounded in a detailed review of the Commonwealth’s evidence.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC. For example, our attorneys have successfully argued for reductions from reckless driving to improper driving, avoiding jail time and criminal records for clients. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Norfolk Reckless Driving Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves Norfolk and surrounding communities. We are accessible for consultations by appointment.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 20 mph over the speed limit always reckless driving in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 46.2-862, driving 20 mph or more over the posted limit is classified as reckless driving, a criminal misdemeanor, not a simple ticket.
Can a reckless driving attorney get my charge reduced?
It depends on the facts of your case and your record. A skilled reckless driving defense attorney can often negotiate a reduction to a lesser offense like improper driving, which carries no jail time and is not a criminal charge.
What should I look for in a speed violation lawyer?
Look for a lawyer with specific experience in Virginia traffic courts, knowledge of speed-measuring device calibration challenges, and a record of negotiating favorable outcomes. A former prosecutor or a lawyer familiar with Norfolk court procedures can be advantageous.
Do I need a dangerous driving lawyer if I was going 85 mph?
Yes. Virginia law presumes reckless driving at any speed of 85 mph or more, making it a serious charge that requires a dangerous driving lawyer to defend against potential jail time and license suspension.
What happens if I just pay the fine for reckless driving?
You cannot simply pay a fine for reckless driving; it is a non-prepayable offense that requires a mandatory court appearance. Failing to appear will result in a separate charge and a possible bench warrant for your arrest.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Traffic Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges in Norfolk, our firm also handles domestic violence and divorce cases.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.