Both local and state police can enforce reckless driving laws in Virginia. Typically, the authority of the local police is limited to the jurisdiction of that police force. For example, an officer from the Manassas Police Department has the authority to charge you with reckless driving within the City of Manassas, an officer from the Prince William County Police Department has the authority to charge you with reckless driving within Prince William County, and an officer with the Virginia State Police can charge you with reckless driving in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Take All Reckless Driving Charges Seriously
Whether your ticket was issued by a local police officer, a county police officer, or a state trooper, you are facing criminal charges in Virginia and the procedures for protecting your rights are the same.
The piece of paper that you were given when the officer pulled you over is not a ticket. It is a summons, and it will tell you the date, time, and specific courthouse where you are to report to address the charges against you.
The crime that you face is likely a Class 1 misdemeanor—which is the most serious type of misdemeanor in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The consequences for being convicted of Class 1 misdemeanor include possible:
-
Jail time
-
Fines
-
License suspension
-
Demerit points on your driving record
-
A permanent criminal record
-
An increase in insurance premiums
-
A loss of security clearance
Other consequences are also possible.
However, reckless driving consequences are not always inevitable once you are charged with the crime. An experienced reckless driving lawyer can investigate the facts of your case and present any valid defenses so that you do not have to bear the burden of penalties for a crime that you did not commit.
To learn more about your rights and your potential defenses, please schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with The Wilson Law Firm today. We can be reached by phone or via this website at your convenience.
|
Related Links: |