TRAFFIC LAW

I have handled traffic cases for more than 30 years. I cover Dinwiddie and Sussex Counties regularly and seldom go to any other traffic courts. I personally handle my traffic cases. The Dinwiddie traffic court is once per week and I go virtually every time court is in session. The Judge calls and hears every case. When I am in court to handle my own cases, I listen to other cases to better learn what the Judge is willing or not willing to do in a given situation. In that way I can give you the best and most realistic advice about your case and what can be accomplished for you. I appear in Sussex traffic court about 40 times per year, with the same plan in mind. There are different Judges in these courts and different ground rules.

The Consequences of a Traffic Ticket

In Virginia speeding more than 20 miles per hour (mph) over the limit or any speed over 80 can be written as reckless driving, which is a misdemeanor. Avoiding a reckless driving conviction is the most frequent traffic court objective. A good driving record helps considerably. I can review your options with you over the telephone and formulate the best strategy for your case.

Even a simple speeding ticket can have adverse consequences resulting in points against your license and serious insurance consequences.

If you receive a ticket from an accident you need legal advice. As a general rule you should not plead guilty or “no contest” to an accident ticket because that is an admission of liability that can be used against you at a later civil case. Accident cases have many issues to consider in order to present your case in the best light.  

Commercial Drivers License (CDL) holders can suffer serious consequences for a simple traffic infraction. Most Judges hold CDL drivers operating a commercial vehicle to a higher standard and are less likely to reduce a charge. Also CDL holders are not permitted to take Driving School classes to reduce or dismiss a ticket, therefore narrowing the Judge’s options.

Virginia has reciprocity with virtually every state so the results of your traffic case are sent back to your home state if you have a non-Virginia license. Different results are important in different states. For example: North Carolina has serious consequences (possible license suspension) for speeding more than 15 MPH over the speed limit and insurance consequences  for speeding more than 10 MPH over the limit. I try to assess your situation and get the best result for you.