Virginia Beach, VA Traffic Violation Defense Lawyer

Knowledgeable Defense Attorney for Traffic Violations in Virginia Beach

If you are pulled over for a traffic violation, you might expect to be let off with a warning, or, at worst, a fine you can write off and be done with. However, this is not always the case. Depending on the exact violation, you could be faced with serious penalties.

At Castellano Law Firm PLLC, our Virginia Beach traffic violation defense attorney can review your case and help fight the allegations against you. Attorney Vincent Castellano has trained with some of the best defense attorneys in Virginia during his time as a public defender, giving him a deep perspective on how to approach these cases.

How Demerit Points Affect Your Driving Privileges in Virginia

Virginia uses a demerit point system to track driving behavior. Every licensed driver starts with a clean record, and points are added when a driver is convicted of a traffic offense. The number of points assigned depends on the severity of the violation. Minor infractions carry three demerit points, more serious offenses carry four, and the most serious violations carry six. Reckless driving and DUI are among the offenses that result in six demerit points.

Points remain on a driving record for two years from the date of the conviction, though the underlying offense may stay on the record longer. Accumulating too many points within a certain period can trigger a warning letter from the Virginia DMV, a required driver improvement course, or a license suspension. Drivers who reach 18 points within 12 months, or 24 points within 24 months, face mandatory action from the DMV.

The point system affects more than just driving privileges. Insurance companies review driving records when setting premiums, and a record with multiple violations can lead to significantly higher rates or a policy being dropped altogether. Our firm will work hard to keep points off your record.

DUI Defense in Virginia Beach

A DUI charge is one of the most serious traffic-related offenses a Virginia driver can face. Beyond the demerit points, a conviction carries the possibility of jail time, a substantial fine, a license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. The consequences can reach into employment, professional licensing, and other areas of everyday life.

A DUI arrest does not mean a conviction is certain. The evidence gathered during a traffic stop, including field sobriety test results, breathalyzer readings, and officer observations, can be examined and challenged. The circumstances of the stop itself should also be considered. An officer must have a valid legal reason to pull a driver over, and a stop that lacks that foundation can affect the admissibility of everything that follows.

Fighting Reckless Driving Charges

Reckless driving in Virginia is a criminal offense. A conviction results in six demerit points, up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a license suspension of up to six months. The charge covers a broad range of conduct, from driving 20 miles per hour or more over the speed limit to passing a school bus or driving with faulty brakes.

Speed-related charges often depend on the accuracy of radar or lidar equipment, and the records behind that equipment can be reviewed. In cases where the charge is based on an officer's general assessment of dangerous driving, that judgment is not automatically beyond question.

Contact a Virginia Beach Traffic Violation Defense Attorney

Traffic violations can affect your record, your license, and your insurance for years. At Castellano Law Firm PLLC, our attorney can discuss your case with you to see what your best path forward is. Call 757-724-0073 or contact our Virginia Beach, VA traffic violation defense lawyer today to schedule a free consultation