Fairfax County Reckless Driving Lawyer — What Is Your Best Defense?
Virginia Reckless Driving Law in Fairfax County
Virginia law defines reckless driving under multiple statutes, with Va. Code § 46.2-862 being the most common for speed-based offenses. Driving 20 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit, or driving 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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. We use our experience to handle the details of your traffic case.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 46.2-862 (official Virginia General Assembly) – Defines reckless driving by speed.
- Fairfax County General District Court website – Provides court location, hours, and contact information.
Fairfax County Court Process for Reckless Driving
Fairfax County General District Court hears all traffic cases including reckless driving. This charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor criminal offense, not a traffic ticket. It creates a permanent criminal record if convicted.
- Review the summons and note your court date.
- Consult with a traffic defense attorney immediately.
- Gather evidence with your attorney.
- Appear at Fairfax County General District Court on your scheduled date.
- Consider completing a Virginia driver improvement clinic.
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 (Va. Code § 46.2-862) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month suspension, 6 points | Permanent criminal record |
| Speeding (General) | Traffic Infraction | None | $30-$250+ | 3-6 DMV points | Insurance increase |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Extended suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Our Experience in Fairfax County Traffic Court
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have a documented record of handling traffic cases in Northern Virginia. Our approach is case-specific, built on a deep understanding of local court procedures.
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: 199 dismissed/not guilty, 861 reduced/amended, 54 other favorable.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Traffic Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location is accessible for clients at Fairfax County courts. We serve the Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and 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+; reckless driving is non-prepayable and requires a mandatory court appearance. Court costs are approximately $62. A conviction also results in 6 DMV points, potential license suspension, and insurance increases.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in Fairfax County?
Yes. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend reckless driving to improper driving (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 charged with reckless driving (20+ over or 85+ mph), you absolutely need a lawyer—it is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Even for simple speeding, an attorney can often negotiate reduced points and fines at Fairfax County General District Court.
What happens at a reckless driving court date in Fairfax County?
Your case at Fairfax County General District Court will be a bench trial. The Commonwealth must prove your speed beyond a reasonable doubt. You can present evidence. Arraignment to bench trial typically takes 4-8 weeks.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Fairfax City Reckless Driving Lawyer – Serving the independent city.
- Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Related practice area.
- 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.