What to Expect If You Are Facing Jail Time After a Reckless Driving ChargeA lawyer can help you minimize the criminal consequences of a reckless driving charge. If you are convicted of reckless driving in Virginia then the judge may sentence you to time in jail. However, that doesn’t mean that you will definitely go to jail or that you will be unable to prepare for any jail time you are required to serve.

Reckless Driving Is at Least a Class 1 Misdemeanor in Virginia

According to Virginia law, any instance of reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor and a Class 1 misdemeanor carries a potential sentence of up to 12 months in jail. In some cases, such as reckless driving without a valid license or reckless driving that results in a death, the crime of reckless driving may be classified as a Class 6 felony. A Class 6 felony carries a potential sentence of up to five years in jail.

Protect Your Rights If You Face Jail Time for Reckless Driving in Virginia

An experienced lawyer can help you protect your rights if you have been arrested for jail time. Specifically, a lawyer may:

  • Defend you against the criminal charges you face. While no ethical lawyer can promise you an acquittal, our lawyers are proud to work hard to protect the rights of each and every client whom we represent. We will use the available evidence to try to avoid a conviction for you which will mean that you avoid jail time.

  • Argue for a reduced sentence. If a conviction is likely then your lawyer will fight to reduce your jail time as much as possible.

  • Advocate for a suspended sentence. If you receive a suspended sentence then you will not go to jail as long as you do everything that the court asks you to do.

  • Request a delayed reporting if you are sentenced to jail time. This will allow you to get your affairs in order before going to jail. In some cases, you may be able to appeal your conviction.

Jail time is a possibility after a reckless driving charge, but it is not a foregone conclusion. Accordingly, we encourage you to contact The Wilson Law Firm today to discuss your legal rights and to find out how we may be able to help you during this difficult time. Please reach out to us via this website or by phone today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and to learn more about what you can do in light of the reckless driving charges you face.