Arizona Reckless Driving Lawyer

Does A Reckless Driving Conviction Result In A Criminal Record?

Yes, and it is permanent. In Arizona, a criminal reckless driving conviction is not eligible for “expungement”. This means you will always have a criminal record that is accessible to employers, agencies, schools, and institutions.  You are now able to seal your criminal record, but counsel should be sought as to the proper procedure and timing.

What MVD Penalties Are Assigned With Arizona Reckless Driving Tickets?

A reckless driving conviction adds 8 points to your Arizona driving record. A single conviction can put you at the threshold for mandatory Traffic Survival School or a license suspension, depending on your driving record.

If you accumulate 8 to 12 points within 12 months, Arizona’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) generally requires Traffic Survival School. If you’ve attended the school within the past 24 months, MVD generally imposes a three-month suspension. Accumulating 13 to 17 points within 12 months carries a three-month suspension, while 18 to 23 points within 12 months carries a six-month suspension. Accumulating 24 or more points within 36 months carries a one-year suspension.

You can request a copy of your driving record through the Arizona’s Department of Public Safety website, Service Arizona. To determine the number of points that you have on your license, fill out the MVD’s Driver License Motor Vehicle Record form.

Arraignment Court Date After A Reckless Driving Ticket

Your reckless driving citation typically lists your first court date. At that hearing, called an arraignment, the court addresses the charge and takes your plea. If you plead not guilty, the court typically schedules a pretrial conference. Before or at that conference, your attorney can review the prosecution’s evidence with you and discuss any plea offer.

In Arizona, a first reckless driving conviction is generally a Class 2 misdemeanor. Penalties can include up to four months in jail, two years of probation, and a $750 fine, plus applicable surcharges and fees.

A conviction can appear on criminal background checks and affect employment or professional licensing. Eligible individuals may petition an Arizona court to seal their criminal case records after completing their sentence and meeting the applicable waiting period.

When Can A Police Officer Charge You With Reckless Driving?

Under A.R.S. § 28-693, a person commits reckless driving by operating a vehicle with reckless disregard for the safety of people or property.

When a charge is based on how you were driving, the court considers the circumstances as a whole. Speed can be part of the evidence, along with traffic, road conditions, and how you maneuvered the vehicle. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your driving showed reckless disregard for safety.

Can I Attend Defensive Driving School To Avoid A Reckless Driving Conviction?

No. A reckless driving charge under A.R.S. § 28-693 is ineligible for Arizona’s Defensive Driving School diversion program. A.R.S. § 28-3392(A)(2)(a) gives judges discretion to allow diversion for criminal speeding under § 28-701.02. That exception applies specifically to criminal speeding.

Traffic Survival School is a separate program. A reckless driving conviction adds 8 MVD points, which can trigger a Traffic Survival School requirement or a license suspension. Completing Traffic Survival School does not dismiss the criminal charge or undo the conviction.

Can I Get A Reckless Driving Charge Dismissed Or Reduced?

It depends on the evidence and the circumstances of your case. Arizona’s Defensive Driving School diversion program is unavailable for reckless driving. An attorney can review the police report, any available video, and witness statements to see whether the evidence supports the charge. Depending on what that review shows, your attorney may seek a dismissal, negotiate a reduced charge, or defend you at trial. Dove Law Firm offers a free consultation to discuss your case and explain your options.

Is Reckless Driving A Criminal Offense In Arizona, And Can I Go To Jail?

Yes. A first reckless driving conviction is generally a Class 2 misdemeanor in Arizona. It can carry up to four months in jail and a $750 fine, plus applicable surcharges and fees. If you have a qualifying prior conviction and the offenses occurred within 24 months of each other, the charge can be elevated to a Class 1 misdemeanor with a mandatory minimum of 20 days in jail.

Will I Lose My License If I’m Convicted Of Reckless Driving?

A first conviction does not automatically suspend your license, but the judge can order a suspension of up to 90 days. The conviction also adds 8 points to your Arizona driving record, which can separately trigger Traffic Survival School or an MVD suspension, depending on your driving record. If Arizona’s repeat-offense penalties apply, MVD must suspend your driving privileges for one year.

If I Live In Another State What Happens If I Ignore The Court Dates?

If you’re charged with reckless driving while visiting Arizona, you’ll need to address the charge in the Arizona court listed on your citation. An Arizona conviction may be reported to your home state, where it can affect your driving record or license under that state’s laws.

If your home state takes action against your license, you may need to resolve the Arizona case and provide proof of its outcome to your home state’s licensing agency. Dove Law Firm can help you understand your options and determine whether you’ll need to return to Arizona for court.