Lexington Reckless Driving Lawyer — What Is Your Best Defense?
In Lexington, driving 20 mph over the posted limit or 85+ mph is automatically charged as reckless driving, a serious criminal offense.
Virginia Reckless Driving Statute
Virginia law defines reckless driving under multiple statutes, with Va. Code § 46.2-862 being the most common for speed-based offenses. This statute makes it illegal to drive 20 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit or in excess of 85 miles per hour regardless of the limit. The law treats this as a criminal misdemeanor, not a simple traffic infraction. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor who understands how these charges are pursued.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the reckless driving statute, see Va. Code § 46.2-862 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Lexington General District Court website.
Lexington Court Process for Reckless Driving
Lexington General District Court hears all traffic cases including reckless driving. Virginia does not allow plea bargaining at the judge level, but Commonwealth’s Attorneys may agree to amend charges before trial. Completion of a Virginia-certified driver improvement clinic before trial is often considered favorably.
- Review your citation and court date.
- Gather evidence and documentation.
- Consult with a traffic defense attorney.
- Prepare for your court appearance.
- Attend your hearing at Lexington General District Court.
Penalties for Reckless Driving in Lexington
In Lexington, 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, increased insurance |
| Improper Driving (Va. Code § 46.2-869) | Traffic Infraction | None | Up to $500 | 3 points | No criminal record |
| Speeding (General) | Traffic Infraction | None | $30-$250+ | 3-6 points | Insurance increases |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Why Choose Our Lexington Traffic Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Founded in 1997, our firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our Lexington traffic defense is led by attorneys with firsthand insight into prosecution strategies.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results in Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented results in Lexington: 1 dismissed/not guilty, 13 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate). These results demonstrate our effective approach to reckless driving defense in this jurisdiction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Lexington Traffic Defense Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at Lexington courts (2 South Main Street). We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. As a reckless driving lawyer near Lexington, we serve the Lexington area and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Reckless driving in Lexington 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 Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). Driving 20+ mph over the limit or 85+ mph is automatically reckless driving in Virginia.
How much does a reckless driving ticket cost in Lexington, 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 reckless driving conviction in Lexington also results in 6 DMV demerit points, potential license suspension, and substantial insurance increases.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in Lexington?
Yes. In Lexington, 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 Lexington General District Court can negotiate effectively. Completing a Virginia driver improvement clinic before your court date is often considered favorably.
Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket in Lexington, Virginia?
If you are charged with reckless driving in Lexington (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 at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) can often negotiate reduced points and fines.
What happens at a reckless driving court date in Lexington?
Your reckless driving case at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) 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 Resources
Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer | Henrico County Reckless Driving Lawyer | Lexington Criminal Defense Lawyer | Attorney Bryan Block Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.