Legal Question in Traffic Law in Virginia

Misdemeanor
I'm a 16 year old driver who was going about 30 mph in a 25 zone and it was raining and I accidentally hyrdoplaned into an oncoming car. I am being charged with failure to maintain control of the vehicle, which I believe is a misdemeanor, not a traffic violation. I was wondering if I will receive a court appointed lawyer, if i need to hire one, or if I really need one. I have an absolutely clean record, no previous trouble with the law, honor roll student, extracurricular activities. The main thing I'm worried about is being convicted of a misdemeanor, thus having to put that on my job applications. Also, can I lose my driver's license? And if I am convicted, will it be expunged or will I have it on my record forever?

Asked on 7/16/04, 10:18 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

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Re: Misdemeanor

A misdemeanor is a jailable offense in the Commonwealth and, therefore, you should have competent defense counsel representing you on this charge, either retained by you or appointed by the court in the event that you are financially unable to do so.

Answered on 7/16/04, 10:41 pm

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