Fairfax County Reckless Driving Lawyer — What Is Your Best Defense?
Reckless driving in Virginia is defined as driving 20 mph or more over the posted limit or at 85 mph or greater regardless of the limit, making it a criminal offense with serious penalties.
Virginia Reckless Driving Statute
Virginia law classifies reckless driving as a criminal misdemeanor, not a simple traffic infraction. The primary statute, Va. Code § 46.2-862, specifically addresses reckless driving by speed, stating 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 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm combines over 120 years of legal experience to handle traffic cases throughout Northern Virginia.
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia’s reckless driving laws, refer to the official state code: Va. Code § 46.2-862 (official Virginia General Assembly). For information about court procedures and locations, visit the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Fairfax County Court Procedures for Reckless Driving
Fairfax County 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. Virginia does not allow plea bargaining at the judge level, but Commonwealth’s Attorneys may agree to amend charges before trial.
- Review your citation and court date: Check your ticket for the court date and location: Fairfax County General District Court, 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030.
- Contact an attorney immediately: Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Do not discuss your case with police or prosecutors before consulting with your attorney.
- Gather evidence for your defense: Collect any evidence that may help your case: witness statements, GPS data, speedometer calibration records, or photos of road conditions.
- Attend your court date with representation: Your attorney will appear with you at Fairfax County General District Court to present your defense and negotiate with the prosecutor.
Reckless Driving Penalties 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 under Va. Code § 46.2-862.
| 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, no criminal record |
| Simple Speeding | Traffic Infraction | None | $30-$250+ | Possible suspension for excessive points | 3-6 DMV points |
Results may vary. The penalties listed represent maximum statutory penalties; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case.
Traffic Defense Experience in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings substantial experience to Fairfax County traffic cases. Founded in 1997, our firm combines over 120 years of legal experience with specific knowledge of Northern Virginia courts. We have represented clients in Fairfax County General District Court for decades, developing relationships with court personnel and understanding local 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
Case Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1,132 documented results in Fairfax County traffic cases: 199 dismissed/not guilty, 861 reduced/amended, 54 other favorable outcomes. These results reflect our experience with Fairfax County General District Court procedures and prosecutors.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Fairfax County Traffic Defense Services
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fairfax County courts (4110 Chain Bridge Road). As a reckless driving lawyer near Fairfax County, we represent clients throughout the area including Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and Falls Church.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
(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+ 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 conviction also results in 6 DMV demerit points and insurance increases.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in Fairfax County?
Yes. In Fairfax County, 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 Fairfax County General District Court can negotiate effectively.
Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket in Fairfax County, Virginia?
If you are charged with reckless driving in Fairfax County (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 can often negotiate reduced points and fines.
What happens at a reckless driving court date in Fairfax County?
Your reckless driving case at Fairfax County General District Court 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 Services
Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer | Fairfax City Reckless Driving Lawyer | Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Attorney Kristen Fisher Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.