Reckless Driving by Speed Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
A reckless driving by speed charge in New Kent County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 46.2-862, carrying up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a 6-month license suspension. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 7 documented results in New Kent County.
Virginia Reckless Driving by Speed Law
In Virginia, reckless driving by speed is defined by statute. Va. Code § 46.2-862 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. This is not a simple traffic ticket; it is a criminal charge. The law is designed to penalize excessive speed that endangers life, limb, or property. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings firsthand insight into how these charges are built and prosecuted.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Citations
For the precise legal language, refer to the official state code: Va. Code § 46.2-862 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filing information for New Kent County can be found at the New Kent County Combined Court website.
Local Court Process for a Reckless Driving by Speed Charge
Your case will be heard at the New Kent County General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may consider amending a reckless driving by speed charge to improper driving, a non-criminal traffic infraction, based on the specific facts and your driving record. An experienced excessive speed charge defense lawyer New Kent County can present mitigating factors like a clean record or completion of a driver improvement course to support this request.
- Receive your summons with a mandatory court date at New Kent County General District Court.
- Consult with a speeding reckless driving lawyer New Kent County to review the evidence and your options.
- Your attorney may file motions, gather evidence (like calibration records), and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Attend your court hearing, where your lawyer will present your defense or a negotiated resolution.
- If convicted in General District Court, you have 10 days to appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Reckless Driving in New Kent County
In New Kent County, a reckless driving conviction carries severe penalties including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record, increased insurance |
| Improper Driving (Reduction) | Traffic Infraction | None | Up to $500 | 3 DMV points | No criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we commit fully to defending your rights and driving privileges. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious traffic charges across Virginia.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a track record of defending traffic charges. In New Kent County, we have 7 documented results for reckless driving and related charges, with 2 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 5 charges reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our defense team includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, whose 15 years of law enforcement experience provides unique insight into traffic stops and evidence challenges.
Reckless Driving Defense Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts. We are accessible via I-64 and represent drivers in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. If you need a reckless driving by speed lawyer New Kent County near the Colonial Downs area, contact us.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Reckless Driving in New Kent County
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Reckless driving in New Kent 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.
How much does a reckless driving ticket cost in New Kent County, Virginia?
Prepayable traffic fines range $30-$250+ depending on offense and speed; reckless driving is non-prepayable and requires a mandatory court appearance. Court costs are approximately $62. A conviction also results in 6 DMV points and major insurance increases.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in New Kent County?
Yes. In New Kent County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend reckless driving to improper driving, a traffic infraction with no criminal record and 3 points. An experienced attorney can negotiate this based on the facts of your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a speeding ticket in New Kent County, Virginia?
If you are charged with reckless driving (20+ over or 85+ mph), you absolutely need a lawyer—it is a criminal misdemeanor. For simple speeding, an attorney can often negotiate reduced points and fines to protect your record and insurance rates.
What happens at a reckless driving court date in New Kent County?
Your case at New Kent County General District Court will be a bench trial. The Commonwealth must prove your speed beyond a reasonable doubt. You can present evidence, and your attorney can argue for dismissal or a reduction. A conviction can be appealed within 10 days.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for criminal defense in New Kent County and DUI/DWI defense in New Kent County. For a broader view of our traffic defense practice, visit our Virginia reckless driving lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your reckless driving by speed charge in New Kent County.