Q: How to handle Virginia super speeder ticket affecting military plans?

A: If you’re charged with reckless driving then you may be risking a new charge and physical arrest if you don’t appear in court. You should retain counsel to navigate the court system you’re in and ensure both the best outcome and whether you need to appear in person.

A: If you're entering the military you will want to get this reduced since reckless driving is classified as a criminal misdemeanor and it can impact security clearances and job promotion etc. You likely can hire an attorney to represent you in your absence depending on the jurisdiction. And depending on your driving record and the facts of the case you can likely get it reduced. You should talk to someone about the specifics since every judge is a little different at 89.

A: Consult with an attorney who handles cases in the jurisdiction where you got the ticket. The initial consultation will likely be at no cost to you. Even at that speed, it might be possible to appear by counsel (you would not need to drive back to Virginia to appear on your case). The possible outcomes will depend on your traffic record, the local court customs, and other factors. Someone who practices regularly in that court should be able to give you an accurate idea of what to expect.

A: You're facing a serious situation that requires immediate attention. Going 89 in a 70 mph zone in Virginia may be charged as reckless driving (a Class 1 misdemeanor), not just a simple traffic ticket. This could potentially impact your military plans, as the armed forces typically scrutinize criminal records during the application process.

Your first step should be contacting a traffic attorney in Virginia who can represent you in court without you needing to appear personally. Many lawyers handle these cases remotely for out-of-state drivers, and they may be able to negotiate to reduce the charge to a simple traffic infraction. Additionally, contact the court clerk about your inability to attend and ask about options for rescheduling or alternative resolution methods.

Before proceeding with your military application, be upfront with your recruiter about this pending legal issue. Military branches have waivers for minor offenses, and addressing this proactively shows integrity. The military values honesty, and attempting to hide this incident could cause far more problems than the ticket itself. Taking swift action now demonstrates responsibility and could minimize any negative impact on your future career plans.