Reckless Driving New Kent VA Lawyer — What Is Your Best Defense?
New Kent County reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 46.2-862 carrying up to 12 months in jail; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 7 documented results in New Kent County. A reckless driving attorney from our firm can build a defense against this serious traffic violation. Contact us for a consultation about your driving offense.
Virginia Reckless Driving Law
In Virginia, reckless driving is a criminal charge, not a simple traffic ticket. The statute, Va. Code § 46.2-862, defines driving 20 mph or more over the posted limit or at a speed of 85 mph or more as reckless driving. Other actions like improper passing or racing can also lead to a reckless driving charge under different code sections. This is a serious driving offense with lasting consequences.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s reckless driving laws, visit the official Virginia Code online. Information about court procedures and locations can be found on the New Kent County General District Court website.
Handling a Reckless Driving Case in New Kent County
New Kent County General District Court hears all traffic cases including reckless driving. Because reckless driving under Va. Code § 46.2-862 is a Class 1 misdemeanor criminal offense, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Virginia law does not allow plea bargaining directly with the judge, but Commonwealth’s Attorneys may agree to amend charges before trial. Completing a Virginia-certified driver improvement clinic before your court date is often viewed favorably.
- Receive your summons with a court date for New Kent County General District Court.
- Consult with a reckless driving defense attorney to review the evidence and your driving history.
- Your attorney may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney before trial to seek a reduction.
- Attend your court date, where your attorney will present your defense or the negotiated resolution.
Potential Penalties for Reckless Driving
In New Kent County, a reckless driving conviction 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 (e.g., 85+ mph) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension, 6 DMV points | Permanent criminal record, increased insurance |
| Improper Driving (Reduction) | Traffic Infraction | None | Up to $500 | 3 DMV points | No criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Traffic Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to traffic and criminal defense cases. We focus on providing strong representation for clients facing serious charges like reckless driving.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented record in New Kent County General District Court. We have achieved dismissals and charge reductions for clients facing reckless driving and speeding charges. For example, we have secured dismissals for charges like 86/65 mph reckless driving and 80/65 mph speeding, and amended an 88/70 mph reckless driving charge to a defective speedometer violation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney for complex Virginia traffic matters is Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience. His deep understanding of traffic investigations and police procedures is a significant asset in building defenses.
Reckless Driving Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts. We represent individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. Consultations are available by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Reckless driving in New Kent 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.
How much does a reckless driving ticket cost in New Kent County, Virginia?
Prepayable traffic fines range $30-$250+. Reckless driving is non-prepayable and requires a court appearance. Court costs are about $62. A conviction also brings 6 DMV points, potential license suspension, and major insurance increases, with total costs often exceeding $10,000 over years.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in New Kent County?
Yes. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend reckless driving to improper driving (a traffic infraction with 3 points and no criminal record) or simple speeding. An experienced attorney can negotiate this, and completing a driver improvement clinic beforehand is often useful.
Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket in New Kent County, Virginia?
If charged with reckless driving (20+ over or 85+ mph), you absolutely need a lawyer—it’s a jailable misdemeanor. For simple speeding, an attorney at New Kent County General District Court can often negotiate reduced points and fines to protect your record.
What happens at a reckless driving court date in New Kent County?
Your case at New Kent County General District Court will be a bench trial. The Commonwealth must prove your speed beyond a reasonable doubt. You can present evidence like calibration certificates. The process from arraignment to trial typically takes 4-8 weeks.
Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer | Reckless Driving Lawyer Henrico County | Criminal Defense Lawyer New Kent VA
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.