Getting a speeding ticket in Warrenton, Virginia may leave you feeling stressed and anxious. According to Brain Child statistics, over 40 million speeding tickets are issued every year. That means that for every six drivers, one driver gets a speeding ticket each year.
A speeding ticket is more than a minor inconvenience. It can have serious implications for your:
- Driving record
- Insurance rates
- Security clearance
- Criminal record
In Virginia, reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense. If you are caught driving recklessly, you will face a fine of up to $2,500 and a year in jail. Your license may also be suspended for up to six months.
That is why you need a Warrenton, VA, speeding ticket lawyer to advise you on your legal options and represent you in court if needed. They are familiar with Warrenton traffic laws.
Our law firm, Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC, assists clients who are facing traffic violation charges. We can help you face these charges more effectively and save you money.
What to Do After Receiving the Speeding Ticket
Follow these steps if you receive a speeding ticket for a traffic violation.
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Check the ticket for errors: Make sure that all the information is correct. Check for errors like wrong date, time, location, speed limit, or vehicle information. You could use them as a defense or a basis for dismissal. You should also note the court date and time, which is usually within 30 to 60 days of the ticket issuance.
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Decide whether you want to pay or contest the ticket: When you pay your ticket, you are taking a guilty plea and accepting the consequences, including demerit points being added to your driver’s license. Contesting a ticket means challenging the validity of the charge and requesting a trial. You can consult an experienced lawyer for advice.
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Prepare for your court appearance: The evidence you present to support your case may include witnesses and a copy of your driving history if you choose to contest the ticket.
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Follow up on your case outcome. You may be able to get your ticket dismissed, reduced, or amended. Remember to comply with court orders or agreements and pay fines or fees on time if you’re found guilty. Also, check your driving record and insurance rates after your case is resolved.
What Are the Options for Paying or Appealing a Speeding Ticket?
When faced with a traffic ticket for speeding or other traffic violations, such as exceeding the posted speed limit or moving violations, you have two primary options: paying the ticket or appealing it.
Paying the ticket is an admission of guilt and can often be done online, by mail, or in person. However, if you believe the ticket was unjustified, or in cases of more serious charges like reckless driving, you can appeal it in court.
For this, seeking legal representation is advisable. Many law firms offer a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your traffic tickets and guide you through the appeals process.
Different Types of Speeding Tickets
Not all speeding tickets are the same in Warrenton, VA. There are two main types of speeding traffic offenses: speeding and reckless driving. The difference between them is generally how fast the driver was going and what the speed limit was.
General Speeding
Speeding is a traffic infraction that carries:
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A fine of up to $250
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Three points on your license
The amount of the fine depends on the following:
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How much you exceeded the speed limit
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Where you were speeding (e.g., school zone, work zone, or highway)
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a criminal offense. It carries:
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A possible jail time of up to 12 months
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A fine of up to $2,500
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Six points on your license
You may be charged with reckless driving for:
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Going 20 mph above the speed limit
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Going over 80 mph regardless of the speed limit
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Other factors include weaving in and out of traffic, passing on a curve, and racing
If you have been charged with speeding or reckless driving, hire an experienced Warrenton VA speeding ticket lawyer.
The Ashwell & Ashwell Team Can Help With Warrenton VA Speeding Tickets
Whether you received a speeding ticket or a reckless driving charge in Warrenton, VA, you need a reliable, aggressive lawyer on your side. At Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC, we can help you in the following ways:
- Evaluating your case and developing a defense strategy
- Explaining your legal rights and options
- Gathering evidence and witnesses to support your case
- Communicating with the court and the prosecutor on your behalf
- Negotiating with the prosecutor for a plea bargain or a reduced charge
- Representing you in court or at DMV hearings
- Seeking alternative options such as driving school, community service, or deferred disposition
- Appealing your case if necessary
We understand that every case is unique and requires a personalized approach. We listen to our clients’ needs and goals and tailor our services accordingly. We also keep you informed and involved throughout the process. Furthermore, we answer your questions and address your concerns.
Our goal at Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC is to assist clients in obtaining better results in their cases. We can challenge the evidence against you, negotiate with the prosecutor, or seek alternative options.
Our Traffic Offense Practice Areas
At our firm, we can handle a variety of traffic cases, including:
- Speeding tickets
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license
- Driving without insurance or registration
- Hit-and-run
- Eluding police
- Passing a stopped school bus
- Failure to yield
- Failure to obey traffic signs or signals
These cases can have serious effects for your driving record, insurance rates, and criminal record. You may face fines, points, license suspension, jail time, or probation. A Warrenton VA speeding ticket lawyer can help you avoid or minimize these penalties by:
- Challenging the validity of the traffic stop, the radar or laser device, or the officer’s testimony
- Seeking alternative options such as driving school, community service, or deferred disposition
Reach Out to Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC Today
A speeding ticket or a reckless driving charge can have a lasting impact on your life. It can affect your driving privileges, finances, and future opportunities. Don’t let a traffic offense ruin your chances of success. Contact Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC today and let us help you resolve your case.
We offer a free initial consultations. Contact us today to discuss your situation and explain how we can help. We charge reasonable fees and accept various payment methods. Our criminal defense lawyers serve residents in Warrenton and throughout Fauquier County, Culpeper County, Rappahannock County, Prince William County, and Fairfax County.
If you are dealing with a traffic matter, Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC is happy to help.
