Legal Question in Criminal Law in Virginia

Good Behavior?

I was charged with a misdemeanor for stealing, and they just gave me a 100$ restitution fee and 3 years good behavior. My question is; what exactly does good behavior mean? Does traffic court also go in with go behavior as if I was pulled over for speeding? Just wanted to make sure of everything.


Asked on 1/23/09, 4:16 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Good Behavior?

Yes, conduct involving traffic infractions on your part might be considered as possibly violating your charge to maintain good behavior (particularly if there is more than one), but what the court most likely has in mind with this term is making sure that you avoid future arrests which could include arrests for traffic offenses in order to be considered not to have violated the terms of your probation and to have maintained "good behavior".

Bottom line: Don't get rearrested for anything under any circumstances during this three year period.

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Answered on 1/23/09, 9:22 am
Jonathon Moseley Moseley & Associates Law Firm

Re: Good Behavior?

Remember also that driving over 80 MPH or driving 20 MPH or more over the posted speed is NOT just a traffic ticket, but is a CRIME in Virginia -- a misdemeanor.

I would try to plead down the traffic ticket to a smaller level. Offer to the prosecutor that you will admit you were going 9 miles over the speed, for example. (Don't say "I was" say I WILL plead to 9 miles over if you agree with that).

But do be careful.

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Answered on 1/23/09, 11:10 am


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