Im from out of state. Do I have to show up for court in Virginia if Im charged with reckless driving by speed?
A. Reckless driving in Virginia is a class one misdemeanor. You are legally required to appear in court. Having said that, as a practical matter, out of state drivers routinely hire local attorneys to appear for them and rarely get in trouble for not showing up in person. Most of the courts in the areas where I practice will not mind if you dont show up if youre represented by an attorney and there is no realistic threat of incarceration. At speeds of 90 mph and higher, or if you are accused of going 30 mph or more in excess of the posted limit, you should consult with an attorney about the practical necessity of appearing. Some judges will issue a capias, or bench warrant, for your arrest if you dont show up for a serious reckless driving case. If you are pulled over again in Virginia this could result in your incarceration without bail until the issue of your nonappearance is resolved.
Related Questions
- Im from out of state but I have a good driving record. Do I have to appear in person in court in Virginia in order to have my speeding ticket referred to a driver improvement program for dismissal?
- The Virginia police officer who charged me with reckless driving had a video camera in his cruiser. Can a tape of my driving be obtained?
- Im from out of state. Do I have to show up for court in Virginia if Im charged with reckless driving by speed?
