I'm an international student studying in the U.S. What will happen to me if I'm convicted of reckless driving?

As an international student, it's important to be very aware of the consequences of a reckless driving conviction. Although a reckless driving charge is a serious matter for any young person, it can present special immigration concerns for international students.

Penalties for Reckless Driving

In Virginia, reckless driving is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor criminal offense. Penalties include:

• Maximum fine of up to $2,500
• Potential jail time of up to 12 months
• Driver's license suspension of 10 days to six months.
• Six demerit points added to your driving record

Implications for International Students

If you are studying in the U.S. on an F-1 or M-1 student visa, you must maintain compliance with the conditions under which your visa was issued in order to legally remain in the country. Other potential issues of concern include:

• You may not be allowed to leave the country until your case is resolved, which could complicate travel plans to visit friends and family.
• Your arrest will be entered into NCIC (National Crime Information Center) database. This might cause delays in your ability to reenter the country if you return home for a visit, leaving you to potentially miss important class time. 
• If your reckless driving charge involves other offenses that result in you being expelled from school, you're automatically in violation of your visa.
• You will be required to acknowledge your arrest record when you apply for renewal of your visa or a green card.
• If you are nearing graduation and wish to work in the U.S., your arrest may make it more difficult to pass a pre-employment background check.

Contact T. Kevin Wilson Today

Even though your budget may be tight as an international student, it would be a mistake to forgo legal representation. Virginia's reckless driving laws can be quite complex and it's difficult to adequately defend yourself when English is your second language.