Alexandria Reckless Driving Lawyer — What Is Your Best Defense?
Alexandria 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 4,739+ documented results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our Arlington location serves clients facing traffic charges at Alexandria General District Court.
Reckless driving in Virginia includes driving 20+ mph over the posted limit or 85+ mph regardless of the limit.
Virginia Reckless Driving Statute
Virginia law defines reckless driving under multiple statutes, with Va. Code § 46.2-862 specifically addressing excessive speed. The statute states that any person who drives a motor vehicle on any highway in the Commonwealth at a speed of twenty miles per hour or more in excess of the applicable maximum speed limit or in excess of eighty-five miles per hour regardless of the applicable maximum speed limit is guilty of reckless driving.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Va. Code § 46.2-862
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 46.2-862 (official Virginia General Assembly) — The specific statute for reckless driving by speed.
- Alexandria General District Court website — Court information, forms, and contact details.
Alexandria Court Procedures for Reckless Driving
Alexandria General District Court hears all traffic cases including reckless driving. Reckless driving under Va. Code § 46.2-862 is a Class 1 misdemeanor criminal offense, not a traffic ticket — it creates a permanent criminal record if convicted.
- Review your citation and court date on the ticket.
- Gather evidence like vehicle maintenance records and calibration certificates.
- Consult with a traffic defense attorney before your court date.
- Complete a Virginia driver improvement clinic if recommended.
- Appear at Alexandria General District Court on your scheduled date.
- Present your case or accept a negotiated resolution.
Reckless Driving Penalties in Alexandria
In Alexandria, reckless driving carries up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, 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 DMV points, criminal record |
| Improper Driving (reduction) | Traffic Infraction | None | Up to $500 | No suspension | 3 DMV points |
| Simple Speeding | Traffic Infraction | None | $30-$250+ | Possible suspension for excessive points | 3-6 DMV points |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to your defense. With 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC and a 93%+ favorable outcome rate, our firm has established a record of effective representation. Our tagline “Global advocacy. Local precision.” reflects our approach to every case.
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 Alexandria Traffic Matters
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice at Alexandria General District Court, representing clients facing reckless driving and other traffic charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Traffic Defense in Alexandria
Our Arlington location is minutes from Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street, accessible via major highways. As a reckless driving lawyer near Alexandria, we serve clients throughout Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Reckless driving in Alexandria 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 Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320). Driving 20+ mph over the limit or 85+ mph is automatically reckless driving in Virginia.
How much does a reckless driving ticket cost in Alexandria, 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 reckless driving conviction in Alexandria also results in 6 DMV demerit points, potential license suspension, and substantial insurance increases.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in Alexandria?
Yes. In Alexandria, 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 instead of 6) or simple speeding. An experienced attorney at Alexandria General District Court can negotiate effectively. Completing a Virginia driver improvement clinic before your court date is often considered favorably.
Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket in Alexandria, Virginia?
If you are charged with reckless driving in Alexandria (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 at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320) can often negotiate reduced points and fines.
What happens at a reckless driving court date in Alexandria?
Your reckless driving case at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320) will be a bench trial before a General District Court 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 Resources
- Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer — Statewide hub page
- Arlington County Reckless Driving Lawyer — Nearby locality
- Alexandria Criminal Defense Lawyer — Related practice area
- Kristen Fisher Attorney Profile — Learn more about your attorney
- Arlington Location Information — Our office details
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.