When Do You Need a Reckless Driving Lawyer?
There are many reasons why you might need a reckless driving lawyer, even if you consider yourself a safe driver. These reasons include driving over the speed limit, following another vehicle too closely, or getting distracted and swerving erratically. Whatever the reason, if a police officer spotted you, you may be charged with serious traffic offenses like reckless driving.
If you are facing a reckless driving charge, contact a skilled attorney with experience dealing with various traffic offenses.
What Is Reckless Driving?
Reckless driving refers to driving carelessly and disregarding people’s and property’s safety. In some cases, it is not just the driver who can be found guilty of reckless driving. The vehicle owner can also be found guilty if they knew about the driver’s behavior and failed to take appropriate action.
Careless driving can result in a criminal charge requiring the legal counsel of a reckless driving attorney. By creating an attorney-client relationship with a reputable attorney from Chehimi Law, you can craft a criminal defense and hopefully avoid a traffic crime conviction.
How Long Does a Reckless Driving Charge Stay on Your Record?
In most states, a reckless driving charge will stay on your driving record for at least three to five years. In Georgia, it remains on your record for life. With such serious consequences, contacting an Atlanta criminal lawyer is even more critical to help you fight your reckless driving charges.
Reckless Driving Penalties In Georgia
A reckless driving conviction often results in the following:
- Fine
- Jail time
- Loss of driving privileges such as a license suspension
- Permanent criminal record
- Points on your license
In Georgia, reckless driving is a misdemeanor that can result in fines up to $1,000 and time in jail of up to 12 months.
Other infractions, such as speeding or running a red light, may also be charged. Getting a reckless driving ticket may also affect your insurance rates and credit rating, so successfully fighting such a charge is critical.
Getting a Reckless Driving Ticket Reduced
Getting a reckless driving violation reduced to a minor traffic ticket largely depends on the facts of the case and the court in which the case is being handled.
Other ways to reduce the level of traffic tickets and subsequent penalties include attending driving school or a ticket clinic.
If you are unsure whether your charge will be reduced, call your reckless driving lawyers to evaluate your case.
How Do You Fight a Reckless Driving Violation Charge?
There are three ways that you can plead a reckless driving charge:
- Pleading guilty
- Pleading no contest
- Pleading not guilty
In a guilty and no-contest plea, you accept the punishment for the criminal traffic conviction but pleading no contest results in the charges not being listed on your record.
Should You Hire a Reckless Driving Law Firm?
A reckless driving attorney can help you retain your driver’s license and avoid a jail sentence. It is important to always conduct research before choosing a law firm if you are facing reckless driving charges.
Chehimi Law, LLC represents individuals throughout Georgia with a legal practice focused on criminal defense. Our practice areas include DUI defense, car accidents, reckless driving, and other misdemeanor and felony charges.
What Does a Reckless Driving Attorney Cost?
The cost of legal services varies widely depending on several factors, including the case’s circumstances and the attorney’s location.
Regardless, the expense of an experienced law firm is likely less than the consequences, including fines, court costs, and a driving record that could haunt you for years.
Contact Chehimi Law to schedule a free consultation with a reckless driving attorney. Call now!
