Fairfax County Reckless Driving Lawyer — What Is Your Best Defense?
Fairfax 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 1132 documented results in Fairfax County. You need a defense attorney who knows the local court procedures. Our team provides full representation for traffic charges, from speeding to reckless driving.
Reckless driving in Virginia is defined as driving 20 mph or more over the posted limit or at 85 mph or more, regardless of the limit.
Virginia Reckless Driving Statute
Virginia law classifies reckless driving as a criminal misdemeanor, not a simple traffic infraction. The primary statute, Va. Code § 46.2-862, specifically makes it illegal to drive 20 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit or in excess of 85 miles per hour irrespective of the limit. Other actions like improper passing or driving too fast for conditions can also constitute reckless driving under different code sections.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see the official Va. Code § 46.2-862 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Fairfax County Court Process for Reckless Driving
All traffic cases, including reckless driving, are heard at the Fairfax County General District Court. This is a criminal offense that creates a permanent record if convicted. Virginia does not allow plea bargaining with the judge, but prosecutors may agree to amend charges before trial.
- Review the summons and note your court date. Your traffic summons will list the charge, statute, and your initial court date.
- Consult with a traffic defense attorney. Contact an attorney familiar with Fairfax County procedures to discuss your case.
- Gather evidence for your defense. Collect any relevant evidence, such as witness statements or calibration certificates.
- Appear at Fairfax County General District Court. Attend your scheduled court date at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax.
- Present your case or negotiate a resolution. Your attorney may negotiate for a charge reduction or present your defense.
Penalties for Traffic Offenses in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, reckless driving 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 (≥85 mph or 20+ over) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension, 6 points | Permanent criminal record |
| Speeding (1-19 mph over) | Traffic Infraction | None | $30-$250+ | 3-6 DMV points | Insurance increase |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory jail possible |
Results may vary. Each case depends on its specific facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Local Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on providing case-specific defense strategies for clients in Northern Virginia.
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
Documented Case Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1132 documented results in Fairfax County traffic cases: 199 dismissed or found not guilty, 861 reduced or amended, and 54 other favorable outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Traffic Defense Services
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a traffic defense lawyer near Fairfax County for residents and those cited on major highways like I-66, I-95, and the Fairfax County Parkway. We serve Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
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 and witness testimony. Arraignment to bench trial in GDC: 4-8 weeks.
Related Legal Services
Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer Hub | Fairfax City Reckless Driving Lawyer | Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Attorney Kristen Fisher Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.