Most traffic violations are civil in nature and will not result in a criminal record. A reckless driving charge, however, is not the same as a traffic ticket. Arizona treats reckless driving as a criminal offense. This crime will lead to both criminal penalties and a license suspension from the Motor Vehicles Division. A reckless driving charge will have a significant impact on one’s life if they need their vehicle for work and to transport family members. Bretton Barber is a Phoenix criminal defense attorney handling such charges. Contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
Phoenix lawyer defending those charged with reckless driving and criminal speeding charges
In Arizona, reckless driving may refer to a number of traffic related behaviors including:
- Racing another vehicle on a public street
- Swerving recklessly in between lanes
- Blatantly disregarding traffic lights and stop signs
- Driving too closely behind another motorist
Criminal speeding charges may also be filed when a person exceeds speeds deemed appropriate for certain zones. A first offense for reckless driving will typically be a class two misdemeanor and carry a maximum sentence of four months in jail. A second offense, within twenty-four months of the first, will result in a class one misdemeanor and carry a maximum sentence of six months in jail. If property damage or injury occurred, as a result of one’s conduct, then these penalties can increase substantially.
Bretton will assist those facing reckless driving or criminal speeding charges. While many see such an offense as a “silly mistake” and think it is not a serious matter, the truth is that it can have consequences for your future. Bretton will work to find you the best resolution possible. He will stay in regular contact with you throughout the process and work to ensure that you understand what to expect each step of the way. He regularly provides clients with his cell phone number and speaks with people outside of normal business hours. Our goal is to provide all of our clients with excellent service in each and every case we handle. In addition to Phoenix we represent defendants in other Maricopa County cities such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. We also assist Pima County residents in Tucson.
For those who have previously been convicted, we are able to assist with a record expungement or a conviction set aside.
Arizona attorney appearing at possible license suspension hearings
A reckless driving charge consists of two separate entities that must be addressed. First, a defendant will be ordered to appear in Municipal Court to address the criminal charges. But they will also be contacted by the Motor Vehicles Division as well and informed that their license has been suspended. Bretton Barber provides assistance with both the criminal case and with the MVD. Bretton will appear on your behalf and request any special privileges that are required, such as work and school privileges. In some cases, Bretton may be able to have points and fines reduced or the citation filed against you dismissed. Contact our office today for a consultation.