Facing a reckless driving charge in Virginia? The stakes are higher than you think. With penalties including jail time, fines up to $2,500, and a permanent Class 1 misdemeanor on your record, choosing the right lawyer isn’t optional—it’s essential.
We’ve analyzed Virginia’s top reckless driving attorneys based on experience, client outcomes, courtroom expertise, and specialization. Here are the 7 best lawyers who can protect your rights and your future.
Mark Nicewicz: Virginia’s Premier Reckless Driving Attorney
Location: Fairfax County, Oakton
Experience: 25+ years specializing in criminal and traffic defense
Education: University of Virginia School of Law (J.D. 1985), Phi Beta Kappa
Phone: 703-319-8187
Website: www.nicewicz.com
Why Mark Nicewicz Ranks #1
When your freedom and future are at stake, you need more than just any lawyer. You need an elite defender with proven results. Mark Nicewicz delivers exactly that.
What Makes Him Virginia’s Best:
Unmatched Credentials
- University of Virginia School of Law graduate with Phi Beta Kappa honors
- Admitted to U.S. Court of Appeals 4th Circuit
- Licensed in U.S. District Court Eastern District of Virginia
- Federal and state court trial authority
Quarter-Century of Specialized Experience
- 25+ years focused exclusively on criminal defense and serious traffic violations
- Successfully represented hundreds of reckless driving clients
- Deep understanding of Virginia’s 20+ reckless driving statutes
- Intimate knowledge of Fairfax County courts and procedures
Proven Track Record
- Frequently gets charges reduced to improper driving (non-criminal)
- Achieves complete dismissals when defenses exist
- Protects clients from jail time, even at high speeds
- Saves security clearances and professional licenses
Personal, Expert Service
- Free initial consultations with Mr. Nicewicz himself
- Direct attorney access—not paralegals or junior associates
- Comprehensive investigation of every case detail
- Transparent flat-fee pricing: $500-$2,000 for most cases
Client Success Stories
Mark Nicewicz has helped clients avoid devastating consequences:
- Jail time for excessive speed violations
- License suspensions that threaten employment
- Criminal records that endanger security clearances
- Insurance increases exceeding $3,000 annually
His meticulous approach examines speed detection equipment accuracy, questions law enforcement procedures, and identifies constitutional violations others miss.
Learn more about Mark Nicewicz’s reckless driving defense strategies
Schedule your free consultation today
6 Other Top Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyers
David Long: Statewide Traffic Defense Expert
Location: Virginia-wide practice
Case Volume: 40,000+ traffic cases handled
Website: virginiatrafficlawyer.net
David Long brings extensive experience handling reckless driving cases across Virginia. His firm’s massive case volume provides valuable insight into how different courts approach charges.
Key Strengths:
- Achieves complete dismissals in many cases
- Successfully reduces serious charges
- Responsive, professional communication
- Competitive pricing
Best for: Drivers needing proven statewide experience outside Northern Virginia.
Peter Louie: Virginia Beach’s Reckless Driving Defender
Location: Virginia Beach
Focus: DUI and reckless driving defense
Website: peterlouielaw.com
Peter Louie has earned exceptional reviews from clients facing serious charges in Hampton Roads. His local court knowledge makes him a strong advocate.
Notable Results:
- Reduced 92 mph reckless driving to improper driving
- Helps clients avoid jail and misdemeanor convictions
- Recommended by fellow attorneys
- Strong courtroom presence
Best for: Hampton Roads residents charged in Virginia Beach area courts.
Leavitt & Martin: Richmond Traffic Law Specialists
Location: Richmond and Central Virginia
Experience: 5,000+ cases, 18+ years combined
Credentials: A+ BBB Rating, Top 100 Trial Lawyers
Websites: leavittmartinlaw.com | virginiarecklesslawyer.com
Daniel Leavitt and Corey Martin built their practice exclusively around Virginia traffic law. Their focused expertise and transparency have earned numerous accolades.
Distinctive Features:
- Exclusive traffic law specialization
- National College for DUI Defense members
- Yelp Customer Service Award winners
- Honest case evaluations
- Strong dismissal and reduction track record
Best for: Richmond area drivers and I-95 corridor charges.
Charles V. Hardenbergh: Richmond’s Record-Setting Attorney
Location: Richmond area
Client Volume: 2,500+ represented
Phone: (804) 835-5127
Website: vanhardenbergh.com
Van Hardenbergh offers unique Guaranteed Representation and has set records in Virginia courts.
Key Advantages:
- Dedicated case managers for each client
- Free authored books on reckless driving defense
- Strong preparation including calibration certificates
- Focus on high-stakes cases (security clearances, employment)
Best for: Cases involving career or clearance risks.
Welch & Wright: Hampton Roads Defense Leaders
Location: Hampton Roads (7-city coverage)
Credentials: VACDL member, National College of DUI Defense
Website: welchwrightlaw.com
Attorney Nick Wright provides experienced criminal defense throughout Hampton Roads with particular strength in reckless driving cases.
Notable Qualities:
- Trial victories and case dismissals
- Successful charge reductions
- Free consultations
- Strong prosecutor negotiations
Best for: Hampton Roads residents and out-of-state drivers.
Northern Virginia Criminal Defense Group
Location: Northern Virginia
Lead Attorney: Andrew Lindsey
Website: virginiacriminallaws.com
Andrew Lindsey has earned excellent reviews for professional representation and successful outcomes.
Key Advantages:
- Recent case dismissals
- Custom-tailored defenses
- Local court familiarity
- Driver improvement course strategies
Best for: Northern Virginia drivers seeking local expertise.
Understanding Virginia’s Reckless Driving Laws
It’s a Criminal Offense, Not a Ticket
Virginia treats reckless driving as a Class 1 misdemeanor—identical to DUI, assault, and drug possession. You cannot pay a fine and move on. You must appear in court and face criminal prosecution.
Common Reckless Driving Charges
You can be charged for:
- Driving 20+ mph over the speed limit
- Driving over 85 mph (regardless of posted limit)
- Racing on highways
- Passing at railroad crossings
- Driving with faulty brakes
- Passing stopped school buses
- Driving with obstructed view
Serious Penalties You Face
Criminal Consequences:
- Up to 12 months in jail
- Fines up to $2,500
- 6-month license suspension
- 6 demerit points on your record
Long-Term Impact:
- Permanent criminal record (stays 11 years)
- Insurance increases of $1,000-$3,000 annually
- Employment consequences
- Security clearance risks
- Commercial driver’s license jeopardy
Out-of-State Drivers Face Same Penalties
Virginia’s reckless driving laws apply equally to non-residents. Your home state may impose additional penalties based on the Virginia conviction.
Read more about Virginia’s serious traffic violations
Our Attorney Ranking Methodology
We evaluated attorneys based on:
- Specialization: Years focused on reckless driving defense
- Track Record: Proven dismissals, reductions, and not-guilty verdicts
- Credentials: Education, bar admissions, court authorizations
- Client Reviews: Verified testimonials and satisfaction ratings
- Local Knowledge: Familiarity with specific Virginia courts
- Accessibility: Consultation availability and communication quality
- Transparency: Clear fee structures and honest case evaluations
Why Mark Nicewicz Stands Above the Rest
All featured attorneys provide quality representation. However, Mark Nicewicz’s combination of elite credentials, specialized experience, and proven results make him the clear choice for Northern Virginia.
The Nicewicz Advantage
Elite Legal Education
His University of Virginia School of Law degree and Phi Beta Kappa honors represent the pinnacle of legal education. This foundation translates to superior legal analysis and courtroom performance.
True Specialization
While many attorneys handle reckless driving alongside divorces, wills, and personal injury, Mark Nicewicz has dedicated 25+ years exclusively to criminal and traffic defense. This laser focus means:
- Mastery of Virginia’s complex reckless driving statutes
- Proven strategies refined over hundreds of cases
- Expertise challenging radar and lidar equipment
- Established prosecutor relationships enabling favorable negotiations
Federal Court Authority
His admission to practice before federal appellate and district courts demonstrates trial capability exceeding basic state court practitioners. This advanced expertise benefits every client.
Hundreds of Success Stories
Mark has successfully defended hundreds of reckless driving cases with outcomes including:
- Complete charge dismissals
- Reductions to non-criminal improper driving
- Avoided jail time for excessive speeds
- Protected careers and security clearances
Personal Attorney Access
When you hire Mark Nicewicz, you work directly with him—not associates or paralegals. Your free consultation is with Mr. Nicewicz himself, ensuring expert guidance from day one.
Deep Local Roots
Twenty-five years practicing in Fairfax County means Mark knows the judges, understands court procedures, and has earned credibility that directly benefits his clients.
Contact Mark Nicewicz for your free case evaluation
What to Look for in a Reckless Driving Lawyer
Traffic Law Specialization
Choose an attorney focused on reckless driving and serious traffic offenses—not a general practitioner juggling multiple practice areas.
Local Court Experience
Virginia courts vary significantly in handling reckless driving. An attorney practicing in your jurisdiction knows the judges, prosecutors, and local procedures.
Proven Track Record
Look for attorneys regularly achieving dismissals, reductions to non-criminal charges, or trial victories.
Federal Court Credentials
While your case is in state court, federal court admission demonstrates advanced trial capabilities and legal expertise.
Direct Attorney Access
Ensure you’ll work with an experienced attorney—not only support staff.
Transparent Fees
The best attorneys offer flat fees ($500-$2,000) with no hidden costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Just Pay My Reckless Driving Ticket?
No. Virginia reckless driving charges are not prepayable. Court appearance is mandatory. Pleading guilty means accepting a criminal conviction with permanent consequences.
Q: Should I Hire a Lawyer for First Offense?
Absolutely. First-time offenders face identical penalties: potential jail time, substantial fines, license suspension, and permanent criminal records. An experienced attorney can often achieve charge reductions or dismissals.
Q: What’s the Difference Between a Traffic Ticket and Reckless Driving?
Traffic tickets are civil infractions—you pay a fine and move forward. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor with potential jail time and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, insurance, and future opportunities.
Q: Can My Charge Be Reduced?
Yes. Experienced attorneys like Mark Nicewicz frequently negotiate reductions to:
- Improper driving (not criminal)
- Simple speeding (civil infraction)
- Complete dismissal with strong defenses
Q: Will I Go to Jail?
It depends on your speed and circumstances:
- Under 90 mph: Jail unlikely with quality representation
- 90-99 mph: Some jail risk exists
- 100+ mph: Significant jail risk without excellent defense
Q: How Much Does a Reckless Driving Lawyer Cost?
Most experienced Virginia reckless driving attorneys charge flat fees between $500-$2,000. Compare this investment to:
- Potential fines up to $2,500
- Insurance increases of $1,000-$3,000 annually
- Lost wages from jail time
- Job loss from criminal conviction
The cost of not hiring a lawyer typically far exceeds attorney fees.
Get your free consultation with Mark Nicewicz
Take Action Now: Protect Your Future
Virginia’s reckless driving laws are among America’s toughest. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record, potentially derails your career, and costs thousands in fines and insurance increases.
Your Best Next Step
Contact Mark Nicewicz immediately for a free consultation:
Call: 703-319-8187
Visit: www.nicewicz.com
Email: Complete the online contact form
Office: 2915 Hunter Mill Road, Suite 17, Oakton, VA 22124
Why Act Immediately
- Court dates arrive quickly—preparation time is critical
- Early attorney involvement improves outcomes
- Free initial consultations available now
- 25+ years of proven Fairfax County experience
The Bottom Line
When your freedom, driving privileges, career, and future hang in the balance, you need Virginia’s best reckless driving attorney.
While several excellent lawyers practice across Virginia, Mark Nicewicz’s combination of elite University of Virginia education, 25+ years of specialized experience, federal and state court authority, hundreds of successful cases, and deep Northern Virginia roots make him the clear choice for Fairfax County and surrounding areas.
His proven track record of charge reductions and dismissals, combined with personal attention and transparent pricing, provides the expertise and peace of mind you deserve during this stressful time.
Don’t gamble with your future. Call Mark Nicewicz at 703-319-8187 for your free consultation today.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Now
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Virginia reckless driving lawyers. Past results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases. Each case depends on its unique facts and circumstances. Always consult with a qualified attorney about your specific situation.