Legal Question in Traffic Law in Virginia

First Time Reckless Driving

This is for my 19 year old son. He recently receieved a summons for ''Reckless Driving - Private Property''. It was a shopping center parking lot. My son was involved in racing; no injuries, no accidents or damages. It happened after 11:00 PM, stores were closed. This is his first Reckless charge. He has a minus 6 on his driving record, but that will be reduced by 5 points because he has to take a driver improvment class, before the court appearance. So, should he get a lawyer to represent him? What judicial actions does he face? Speculation on what the judge will most likely decide to do with my son and this charge? Thank you.


Asked on 11/07/03, 1:56 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: First Time Reckless Driving

Although you have indicated "this is his first

Reckless charge", you have not specified what other offenses your son may have been convicted of(including non-traffic charges)nor explained why he already has six demerit points on his record.

These are the factors that both the judge and prosecutor are likely to consider important in determining the appropriate disposition of your son's case and may, also, be important in deciding whether your son should have a lawyer. Since Reckless Driving is a jailable offense, your son may request that the court appoint an attorney to represent him in the event that you cannot afford to hire one.

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Answered on 11/10/03, 2:39 pm


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