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 speed limit, or at a speed of 85 miles per hour or more 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 local rules, forms, and contact information for the court handling your case.
Fairfax County Court Process for Reckless Driving
All traffic cases, including reckless driving, are heard at the Fairfax County General District Court. Virginia does not allow plea bargaining directly with the judge, but the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend charges before trial. Completing a Virginia-certified driver improvement clinic before your court date is often viewed favorably.
- Review the summons and understand the charge: Identify the specific statute cited, usually Va. Code § 46.2-862 for speed, and note your court date at Fairfax County General District Court.
- Gather evidence and documentation: Collect your driving record, any calibration certificates for your speedometer, witness statements, and GPS data if available.
- Consult with a traffic defense attorney: Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your case and develop a defense strategy specific to Fairfax County procedures.
- Prepare for your court appearance: Your attorney will file any necessary motions, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and represent you at the bench trial.
Penalties for Reckless Driving in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, reckless driving carries a penalty range of 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, insurance increase |
| Improper Driving (common reduction) | Traffic Infraction | None | Up to $500 | 3 points | No criminal record |
| Simple Speeding | Infraction | None | $30-$250+ | 3-6 points | Insurance increase possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your driving history, and the court’s discretion.
Our Experience in Fairfax County Traffic Court
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We focus on providing clear, direct representation for traffic cases in Northern Virginia. Our team understands the local court procedures and works to achieve the best possible result for each client.
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 for traffic cases in Fairfax County: 199 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 861 charges reduced or amended, and 54 other favorable outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Traffic Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We represent individuals in Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. Contact us for a traffic lawyer near Fairfax County.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (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+ depending on offense and speed; reckless driving is non-prepayable and requires mandatory court appearance; court costs approximately $62; appeal bond to Circuit Court if convicted in GDC. A conviction also results in 6 DMV demerit points and insurance increases.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in Fairfax County?
Yes. In Fairfax County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend reckless driving to improper driving (Va. Code § 46.2-869 — traffic infraction, no criminal record, 3 points) or simple speeding. An experienced attorney at Fairfax County General District Court can negotiate effectively.
Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket in Fairfax County, Virginia?
If you are charged with reckless driving in Fairfax County (20+ over or 85+ mph), you absolutely need a lawyer — it is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a permanent criminal record. Even for simple speeding, an attorney can often negotiate reduced points and fines.
What happens at a reckless driving court date in Fairfax County?
Your reckless driving case at Fairfax County General District Court will be a bench trial before a judge. The Commonwealth must prove your speed beyond a reasonable doubt. You can present evidence including speedometer calibration certificates, GPS data, and witness testimony.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer hub page. We also assist with criminal defense in Fairfax County and DUI/DWI charges in Fairfax County. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your Fairfax County reckless driving charge.