Speeding Ticket Lawyer Arlington County — How to Fight Your Ticket
A speeding ticket in Arlington County can escalate to a Class 1 misdemeanor reckless driving charge under Va. Code § 46.2-862 if you were going 20+ mph over the limit or 85+ mph. This carries up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a permanent criminal record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Speeding and Reckless Driving Laws
In Virginia, a simple speeding ticket is a traffic infraction. However, exceeding the speed limit by 20 miles per hour or driving 85 mph or more anywhere in the state is classified as reckless driving under Va. Code § 46.2-862. This is a criminal offense, not a simple ticket. The case is heard at the Arlington County General District Court. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the serious implications of these charges.
Local Court Process for Fighting a Ticket
At Arlington County General District Court, prosecutors may agree to amend a reckless driving charge to a lesser offense like improper driving before trial. Knowing how to fight a speeding ticket lawyer Arlington County strategies is key. An experienced speeding violation defense lawyer Arlington County can present evidence such as speedometer calibration reports to challenge the commonwealth’s case.
- Review your ticket and note the court date at Arlington County General District Court.
- Consult with a speeding ticket lawyer Arlington County to assess defense options.
- Gather evidence, such as maintenance records for your speedometer or witness statements.
- Appear in court or have your attorney represent you to negotiate for a reduced charge.
Potential Penalties for Speeding Violations
In Arlington County, a reckless driving conviction carries severe penalties, while standard speeding results in fines and 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 | 6-month suspension, 6 DMV points | Permanent criminal record |
| Speeding (1-19 mph over limit) | Traffic Infraction | None | $30 – $250+ | 3-6 DMV points | Insurance increases |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Arlington County Traffic Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our deep familiarity with Arlington County courts allows us to build strong defenses for clients facing speeding and reckless driving charges.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). 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
Documented Case Results in Arlington County
Our attorneys have a documented record in Arlington County traffic cases. For example, we secured a reduction from reckless driving to speeding 10-14 mph over the limit for one client, and an amendment from speeding to “fail to pay full time and attention” for another. In total, we have 94 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty and 83 reduced/amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Speeding Ticket Lawyer Near Arlington County
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Arlington County General District Court, serving clients in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, and Pentagon City. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Arlington County, Virginia?
Yes. Reckless driving in Arlington 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 Arlington County, Virginia?
Prepayable traffic fines range $30-$250+ depending on offense and speed; reckless driving is non-prepayable and requires a mandatory court appearance. A conviction also brings 6 DMV points, potential license suspension, and major insurance increases.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in Arlington County?
Yes. In Arlington County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend reckless driving to improper driving (a traffic infraction with 3 points) or simple speeding. An experienced attorney can negotiate this based on the facts of your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket in Arlington County, Virginia?
If you are charged with reckless driving (20+ over or 85+ mph), you absolutely need a lawyer—it is a criminal misdemeanor. For simple speeding, an attorney can often negotiate reduced points and fines to protect your driving record.
What happens at a reckless driving court date in Arlington County?
Your case at Arlington County General District Court will be a bench trial where the Commonwealth must prove your speed beyond a reasonable doubt. You or your attorney can present evidence. A conviction can be appealed to Circuit Court within 10 days.
Related Pages: Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer | Reckless Driving Lawyer Alexandria | Criminal Defense Lawyer Arlington County
Last verified: April 2026. The information on this page is for general purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation.