Chevy Chase Reckless Driving Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Reckless driving in Maryland is a serious misdemeanor under Md. Code, Transp. § 21-901.1, carrying up to 6 points on your license, a $500 fine, and potential jail time. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for drivers in Chevy Chase facing these charges. Our team understands the local court procedures and works to protect your driving privileges and record.
Maryland Reckless Driving Law
Maryland law defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle in a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property. This is distinct from negligent driving, which is a lesser charge. The statute, Md. Code, Transp. § 21-901.1, gives prosecutors broad discretion in charging decisions based on the circumstances of the alleged violation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Montgomery County District Court | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling traffic cases across multiple jurisdictions.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the Maryland reckless driving statute, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website (Md. Code, Transp. § 21-901.1). For local court procedures and filing information, visit the Montgomery County District Court Clerk’s office website.
Local Court Process for a Reckless Driving Charge
In Montgomery County District Court, a reckless driving charge is handled as a criminal misdemeanor. Prosecutors often seek the maximum penalties to encourage plea deals. An aggressive driving defense lawyer Chevy Chase can challenge the state’s evidence from the start.
- You will receive a citation or a summons to appear in Montgomery County District Court.
- At your initial appearance, you will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- If you plead not guilty, the court will schedule a trial date. Your lawyer can file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor, often seeking a reduction to a non-criminal traffic offense like negligent driving.
- If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge.
- If convicted, you have the right to appeal the decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for a Reckless Driving Conviction
In Chevy Chase, a reckless driving conviction carries a maximum penalty of up to 60 days in jail, a $500 fine, and 6 points on your Maryland driving record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving | Misdemeanor | Up to 60 days | Up to $500 | 6 MVA points | Increased insurance premiums, possible license suspension, criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Traffic Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience and a track record of over 4,739 case results firm-wide. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we dedicate full resources to each client’s defense, drawing on our deep knowledge of Maryland traffic law and local court practices.
Case Results
Our firm has secured favorable outcomes in traffic cases across our service areas. For example, we have successfully argued for reckless driving charge dismissed lawyer Chevy Chase clients seek, achieving reductions to lesser offenses or outright dismissals based on procedural errors or insufficient evidence of “wanton disregard.” In one case, a client facing a reckless driving charge based on speed had the charge reduced to a simple speeding violation, avoiding a criminal record and severe points.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every defense is thorough.
Contact Our Chevy Chase Reckless Driving Lawyer
Our team is ready to defend you. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
Meetings by appointment only.
We serve clients in Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Rockville, and throughout Montgomery County.
Facing a reckless driving charge? Don’t wait. Contact a reckless driving lawyer Chevy Chase at our firm today to discuss your case and defense options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Maryland?
Yes. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor criminal charge in Maryland, not a simple traffic ticket. A conviction results in a criminal record.
Can I go to jail for reckless driving in Chevy Chase?
It depends on the facts of your case and your prior record. The maximum penalty is 60 days in jail. While jail time is not automatic, it is a possibility the court can impose, especially if the driving was egregious or caused an accident.
How many points is reckless driving in Maryland?
6 points. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) assigns 6 points to your driving record for a reckless driving conviction. Accumulating 8-11 points in a two-year period can lead to a license suspension.
What’s the difference between reckless and aggressive driving?
Aggressive driving is a specific charge under Md. Code, Transp. § 21-901.2, defined as committing three or more specific moving violations in a single continuous episode. Reckless driving is a broader charge focused on a willful disregard for safety. An aggressive driving defense lawyer Chevy Chase can explain if your actions fit one charge better than the other.
Can a reckless driving charge be dismissed?
Yes, it is possible. A charge may be dismissed if the evidence is weak, if your rights were violated during the stop, or if the officer fails to appear in court. Having a lawyer who knows how to get a reckless driving charge dismissed in Chevy Chase is critical to exploring these avenues.
Should I just plead guilty to reckless driving?
No. You should always consult with an attorney before pleading guilty to any criminal charge. A guilty plea guarantees a criminal record, points, and fines. A lawyer may be able to negotiate a better outcome.
Related Practice Areas: If you were also charged with DUI in Washington D.C., our attorneys can advise on the implications of charges in multiple jurisdictions.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.