Consequences of Not Hiring a Russell County, VA Traffic Ticket Lawyer

Located at the heart of Southwest Virginia, Russell County boasts thriving and diversified business and cultural sectors.[1]  The rugged and mountainous area is one of the most beautiful and biologically rich regions in the world, which is why over 28,000 residents and countless visitors flock to the area to take advantage of the abounding recreational opportunities each year.  Spanning the county’s length, The Clinch Valley has been hailed as “one of the last great places” by the Nature Conservancy.[2]

From golf, hiking, and biking to fishing, festivals, fairs, and the Vincent’s Vineyard, Russell County is seemingly ideal in every way.  Unfortunately, the endless activities and increased traffic have their drawbacks, as local law enforcement officers frequently set up speed traps along Highway 19 to catch unsuspecting drivers.

When people receive a traffic ticket – such as for speeding or reckless driving – they may not believe that they have any options other than paying a fine (and pleading guilty to the charge).   This is not the only option.

At the Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, we’ve helped thousands of clients achieve a better outcome than simply paying a fine.  Call us 24/7 to schedule a free consult.  We offer an affordable fixed fee for traffic ticket representation, and we accept credit card payments.

Understanding the Ramifications of a Traffic Ticket

It’s important to understand that even minor moving violations can result in harsh penalties, including:

  • Fines
  • Demerit Points on a Driving Record
  • Increased Insurance Premiums
  • Jeoparded Commercial Drivers’ License (commercial drivers only)
  • Job Loss
  • Incarceration (up to one year)

Unlike many other states, Virginia has strict traffic laws, and, for tickets that are actually a criminal offense (like reckless driving), there is no expungement.  As such, if you received a traffic citation, we encourage you to schedule a free consultation with Russell County traffic lawyer Mark Hurt (even if you think the charges you are facing are relatively minor).  Our team can review the facts of your case, explain your legal options, and assist in seeking a better outcome.

What Types of Traffic Cases Does The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt Handle?

Firm-founding attorney Mark Hurt has been successfully helping residents and visitors mitigate damages in traffic citation cases for over three decades.  Mark offers fixed-fee representation for moving violations and is experienced in representing clients in both a wide range of traffic charges in a numerous counties.  His experience includes charges involving:

  • Speeding
  • Speeding that Results in a Crash
  • Moving Violations
  • Failing to Stop at a Traffic Signal
  • Passing a Stopped School Bus
  • Reckless Driving
  • Leaving the Scene of a Crash
  • DUI or DWI
  • Improper Lane Change
  • Violation of a Traffic Sign
  • Child Restraint Violation
  • Cell Phone Use Violation
  • Littering
  • Tailgating
  • Failing to Wear a Safety Belt
  • Racing

In Russell County, even minor violations can result in harsh ramifications; thus, it is critical to hire a Virginia traffic attorney who regularly works within the local court system and knows how to argue for reduced penalties, charge dismissal, and not guilty verdicts.

Points on Your License Can Lead to a Driver’s License Suspension in Virginia.

Like many states, Virginia uses a demerit point system.  Each ticket an individual receives results in a number of points on a license.  These demerits vary with the severity of an offense.  For example, the following are points that are often assigned for common traffic violations (along with the number of years a conviction will stay on a DMV record):

Reckless Driving – Over 85 mph6 Points11 Years
Reckless Driving – Racing6 Points11 Years
Reckless Driving – Faulty Breaks6 Points11 Years
Reckless Speeding – 20 mph or more6 Points5 Years
Driving While Intoxicated6 Points11 Years
Refusing a Blood/Breath Test6 Points11 Years
Driving on a Suspended License6 Points11 Years
Speeding – Under 20 mph4 Points5 Years
Passing When Unsafe4 Points3 Years
Failing to Yield4 Points3 Years
Following Too Closely4 Points3 Years
Improper Signaling4 Points3 Years
Improper Passing3 Points3 Years
Coasting with Gears in Neutral3 Points3 Years
Improper Turning3 Points3 Years[3]

Once a certain number of points is reached within a given time frame, a person’s license can be suspended, which can result in increased insurance premiums and occupational difficulties.

Driving Only 15 MPH Over a 70 MPH Speed Limit Can Result in a Permanent Criminal Record in Virginia.

A reckless driving conviction is considered a permanent criminal offense, as Virginia does not allow expungements at a later date.  Unfortunately, many traffic violations could lead to a Class 1 misdemeanor or Class 6 felony.  For example, driving over 85 mph (regardless of the posted speed limit) is considered reckless driving, a Class 1 misdemeanor.  This means you could incur a lifelong criminal record for driving merely 15 mph over a 70 mph posted speed limit.[4]  Further, if the offense causes a fatal accident or the charged individual has a suspended license at the time of the citation, the charges can be upgraded to a serious felony.

Some jobs perform background checks; if a criminal record for reckless driving is reported, it could have devastating effects on a person’s career or job prospects.  Therefore, it is vital to speak with a Russell County, Virginia traffic ticket lawyer who can assist in seeking reduced penalties and to prevent any permanent damages.

Can a Russell County, VA Reckless Driving Ticket Land Me in Jail?

Yes! Virginia is notorious for how serious it takes reckless driving.  Therefore, reckless driving is not merely a moving violation; instead, it is a criminal charge.  A conviction is punishable by up to one year in jail, six months suspended driver’s license, six demerit points on a driving record, and a fine up to $2,500.

In addition to speeding 20 mph over the posted limit or 85 mph (regardless of the posted speed), other reasons for reckless driving include:

  • Failure to Give Proper Signals
  • Failure to Yield the Right of Way
  • Passing an Emergency Vehicle or School Buss
  • Not Being in Full Control of a Vehicle
  • Operating a Vehicle with Faulty Breaks
  • Racing
  • Several Other Discretionary Offenses

Experienced Russell County traffic ticket lawyer Mark Hurt is familiar with the local court system and can assist in advocating on your behalf for ticket dismissal, reduced penalties and a waiver of jail time, or fighting for you in seeking a not guilty verdict.

Call The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt to Schedule a Complimentary Consultation!

A Virginia traffic violation conviction can have long-lasting and devastating ramifications.  If you’ve received a ticket, we would urge you to call our office today to schedule a free consultation.

We offer affordable fixed fees and accept credit card payments!


[1] Russell County Chamber of Commerce, Russell Count, VA, https://russellcountyva.org/.

[2] Russell, Virginia is for Lovers, https://www.virginia.org/counties/Russell/.

[3] Moving Violations and Point Assessments, Virginia DMV, https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#points_assess.asp.

[4] VA Code § 46.2-862.

What Our Clients Say

Mary, Bart, and Mark helped me tremendously with my workers compensation case. We navigated a long (over a year) road together and they helped me to not only win my case, but obtain a settlement of over $125k. I would recommend the Offices of Mark Hurt to anyone needing someone to stand with them in their corner! Thanks again Mary and Bart!! :-)
Charles Dutcher
Charles Dutcher
1685471585
Extremely pleased with the prompt support and guidance from Michael. He and the office staff were great to work with. They walked us through the process and were able to have my daughter's traffic violation dismissed with 0 points.
ga thomson
ga thomson
1684936164
Bart and Mary were very professional and helpful with my claim. I appreciate all that you did for me. You were great.Thanks forall that you've done.Clifford E Boyer
Clifford Boyer
Clifford Boyer
1683668004
I started receiving services through this law firm in 2017 for my workers compensation case. Over the years, this firm has been attentive, kind, patient and understanding to my needs. My calls were returned promptly, if the associate was unavailable at that time and I have had ample opportunity to speak with Mr Hurt directly concerning my case. With Mary Wilson, Bart Conway, Mr Hurt and others behind the scene, my case has progressed smoothly. I am very pleased with the services and attention I received at this firm and would recommend Mr Hurt, Mary and Bart for your needs.
Teresa Harris
Teresa Harris
1683569779
We hired Mr. Hurt to help settle a worker’s comp injury case for my husband. Mark, Bart, and Mary worked tirelessly to resolve his case and reach a settlement we were pleased with. They were always available to answer questions and returned calls in a timely manner.
K F
K F
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We were fortunate to find the Law Offices of Mark T. Hunt to help us set up our estate. Melanie was a joy to work with. She did a wonderful job putting together all of the documents needed to complete our estate planning.
Roxanne Mcfall
Roxanne Mcfall
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The office got right back to me and were compassionate about my sensitive situation
polly deal
polly deal
1680754180
Jessica was helpful in assisting me with my disability claim!
Amber Snapp
Amber Snapp
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Jessica was super helpful when I had questions about submitting my claim for disability. She also got me a case manager quickly!
Amber Petrovich
Amber Petrovich
1680618228
I have only praise for the Mark T Hurt firm and especially Michael Miles. Michael was very helpful in guiding me through the court process ans assuring a good outcome. I would recommend this firm and Michael in particular if you need representation in Virginia!
Dave Dalpiaz
Dave Dalpiaz
1680114987
I called and spoke with Jessica in the Disability Dept. after my Denial and she was right on top of getting me the paperwork to Hire them as my Representatives to Handle my claim from here on out
Allen Smith
Allen Smith
1679416063
Jessica was extremely helpful at assisting me with getting me in the process to file my disability case.
Jason Harris
Jason Harris
1678138281
Thank youJessica from the Social security DeptU were very Helpful
Christal Postema
Christal Postema
1678134153
Jessica in theSoccial Secuity Dept was great
Bryon Nimmo
Bryon Nimmo
1678130439
I spoke with Jessica and she was fantastic! She helped me get my social security disability application started and set up with a case manager.
Rebecca Hunt Ford
Rebecca Hunt Ford
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Jessica @ Social Security Department was very helpful and friendly with us today.
Winonia Blankenship
Winonia Blankenship
1678125271
I had a ticket and was upset. I did not want points on my license. Frankie was amazing and made sure all my bases were covered. The Law Office of Mark Hurt did a wonderful job and got my ticket completely dismissed!!!! I am so glad they helped me. They were so nice and answered all my questions. I never had to worry after I talked with them. I would highly recommend that anyone who needs help with a ticket to talk with this firm!! Thank you so much for everything!!!
Nichloas Wyatt
Nichloas Wyatt
1677981214
Jessica in Disability is awesome!! She replies quickly and gets things done. I’m very satisfied with my choice and feel great that it is in their hands!
laura dykes
laura dykes
1677875154
The individuals I spoke with were courteous, helpful, and thorough. Thank you Jessica.
RoseMarie Whisnant
RoseMarie Whisnant
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Jessica and the disability dept are very helpful and give excellent assistance with filling a claim very glad I contacted them
Jessie Hawks
Jessie Hawks
1677680471
Was very easy process. Jessica was very friendly and helpful while applying for Social Security Disability.
Darlene Robinson
Darlene Robinson
1677623644
Thank you so much Jessica for helping me with my social security disability case! You were kind, helpful, and understanding. I greatly appreciate you!
Kelly Bragg
Kelly Bragg
1677613932
Jessica and the group started helping me with my disability case the same day I called. 10/10 recommend
Brittany Poole
Brittany Poole
1677612031
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