Speeding in Virginia?

Question

I got a ticket for going 80 mph on a 55 mph zone on US-301 in Virginia. I have a Virginia Driving license and the officer mentioned section 46.2-862 on the ticket and also made a court appearance mandatory. I have been driving for only 2 years now and have a clean driving history.

Should i hire a lawyer or just plead guilty and pay the fine? What about traffic school?

Answer 1

It is reckless driving with speed in VA as it 20+ mph over. Worse than  a regular reckless. And yes court attendance is mandatory.

It carries a huge fine, possible jail (probably not on the first) but will include license suspension for sure. Even if you have never had a ticket.

You could go it alone and just get the fine and suspension. But in VA any combination of DWI, reckless or driving on supended adding up to 3 times is a 10 year revocation. You don't even need the DWI.

It is a 6 point ticket meaning your insurance will go up. If you get another ticket you are screwed insurance wise. Are you on your parents insurance? Costs will go up on all of their vehicles just w. the reckless.

Get yourself a lawyer.

Answer 2

you could go to traffic school or just plead guilty but hiring a lawyer is a bit overboard and not even worth the money

Answer 3

I am GUESSING section 46.2-862 is the actual law you are charged with violating.  The OFFICER did not make a court appearance mandatory.  That is not within their authority.  The LAW you are charged with violating makes the appearance mandatory.  Traffic school is normally NOT an option for charges that carry a mandatory appearance on the first offense.