Reckless Driving Defense Attorney in Phoenix

In Phoenix, Arizona, the ramifications of being pulled over and issued a citation for reckless driving go beyond the simple inconvenience of paying a fine. Unlike some minor traffic offenses where a citation can be quickly resolved by paying a penalty, reckless driving in Arizona is considered a criminal offense. The consequences can range from jail time to increased insurance rates if convicted. Given the seriousness of this charge, anyone facing reckless driving allegations in Phoenix should promptly consult with a knowledgeable traffic violations attorney to craft a robust defense and mitigate the potential repercussions.

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Contacting an attorney is crucial if you have been charged with reckless driving in Phoenix, Arizona. At the Benikov Law Firm, attorney Alex Benikov brings over 14 years of experience representing clients from diverse backgrounds. Prioritizing a personalized approach, Mr. Benikov handles a limited number of cases to give each client his full attention. Contact Benikov Law for a complimentary consultation today for strategic representation.

What is Considered Reckless Driving in Arizona?

Arizona's traffic laws, specifically its provisions regarding reckless driving, are defined in A.R.S. § 28-693. This legislation states that any driver demonstrating a "reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property" is guilty of committing the offense of reckless driving. An intriguing aspect of Arizona's legal stance on this matter is the ambiguity surrounding the term "reckless disregard." This phrase is not explicitly defined within the Arizona Revised Statutes, thus granting the court's judge or jury considerable leeway in interpretation.

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Essentially, it's at the discretion of the judicial system to decide whether a driver's actions or behavior can be deemed criminally reckless. To better understand what constitutes "recklessness," you should view it as knowingly ignoring a significant and inexcusable risk.

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In the past, Arizona courts have provided clarity on what might be considered reckless driving by upholding convictions in situations such as:

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Accelerating to dangerous speeds in zones bustling with pedestrians, where the potential for harm is significantly high.
Blatantly ignoring road rules by driving against traffic either on a designated one-way road or on major highways is a clear hazard to others.
Erratic maneuvers like swerving dramatically to circumvent a pedestrian legally crossing at a designated crosswalk.
Utilizing a vehicle in an aggressive manner with the intent to menace or threaten other drivers or unsuspecting pedestrians on the road.
Engaging in hostile driving behaviors like tailgating (following too closely behind another vehicle) or brake-checking (suddenly applying brakes to cause a reaction from the driver behind).

What Are The Penalties for Reckless Driving in Arizona?

Reckless driving is not to be taken lightly. Although it falls under the category of traffic violations, it bears a heavier weight as it is simultaneously classified as a criminal offense. This distinction has significant implications. If an officer stops you on suspicion of reckless driving, they possess the discretion to either cite you or, depending on the gravity of the situation and other prevailing factors, place you under arrest. Paying a fine, as you might for minor traffic infractions, is not an option here. You will be mandated to make a court appearance to address the charge.

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Phoenix, in particular, has stringent regulations concerning reckless driving. It's categorized as a class 2 misdemeanor if you're found guilty. Such a conviction can lead to the following consequences:

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Potential jail term of up to four months
fines as much as $750
You might be facing a suspension of your driver's license for up to 90 days

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The situation becomes even more serious for those with a prior record. If you've been convicted of reckless driving within the preceding 24 months, the stakes are raised. Under these circumstances, the offense is elevated to a class 1 misdemeanor. This shift in classification increases the severity of penalties such as the following:

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Increased possibility of jail time, which can be up to six months
A mandatory 20-day jail term
A second conviction for reckless driving within this two-year window will lead to your driver's license being suspended for an entire year.

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However, there is a slight reprieve in that, after serving 45 days of this suspension, you can apply for a restricted driver's license, which might allow you limited driving privileges under specific conditions.

Why Clients Choose Us

Experienced

Knowledgeable

Patient

Sympathetic

Affordable

Professional

Contact A Reckless Driving Defense Attorney in Phoenix

If you face a reckless driving charge in Phoenix, Arizona, seeking legal counsel without delay is critical. By choosing Benikov Law, you're ensuring direct and consistent communication with your attorney and leveraging the expertise of one of Arizona's foremost criminal law specialists.

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Our firm serves the areas of Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, Glendale, Tempe, Chandler, and other locations around Arizona. If you or a loved one have been charged with a Domestic Violence charge in Arizona, please contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

CLIENT REVIEWS

Colin B.

A very intelligent and friendly, professional man to work with. He was hired in referral to me by a family member and all the great reviews are true! He worked hard for me on a case for a reasonable price and ended with the best possible outcome.

Thank you Alex

Richard H.

He is a very confident and thorough lawyer and very helpful and knowledgeable, I would recommend him to anyone in need of legal advice and/or defense

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M V.

Outstanding character, exceptional legal knowledge of Arizona Law and a strong work ethic. Benikov Law will work tirelessly in their representation of their clients. I would never even consider another firm for any legal representation that I require.

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Ryan S.

Very knowledgeable, professional and trustworthy, I wouldn't hesitate to get Benikov on my side!

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Dustin F.

Mr. Benikov is highly professional and understanding of his client's needs. I will continue to use his law firm for all of my legal matters.

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Daniel R.

Mr. Benikov has always been exceptional at making himself available to answer any questions I’ve ever had with legal issues and never turns me away with even the smallest matters and I respect his genuine care for his clients!

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Patricia K.

Mr. Benikov is always professional and will take care of your matters in a professional manner and I would recommend him to anyone. 5 stars!
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Michael G.

Mr. Benikov helped me with a very complicated and dangerous case involving my daughter. He was able to get the case dismissed, for which I'm eternally grateful.

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Jody S.

Alex Benikov and his law firm are definitely my first call. He’s knowledgeable, responsive and is a good lawyer to have in your corner

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CASE RESULTS

Extreme DUI

Case Result: Client found not guilty after jury trial

Client was charged with Extreme DUI after police found him asleep in his car in the parking lot. After long jury trial jury found client not guilty of all counts.

Domestic Violence Assault

Case Result: Client found not guilty at trial

Client was accused of hitting his wife and damaging property. After trial with several witnesses, the client was found not guilty of all charges.

Theft

Case Result: Client found not guilty after jury trial

Client was charged with taking expensive sunglasses. After months of working with prosecutor all charges dismissed when it was shown that clients friend was the responsible party.

Domestic Violence Assault

Case Result: Not guilty of all counts

Client was found not guilty of all counts on domestic violence assault after trial. State had alleged a serious injury to victim. Client was facing jail if convicted.

Threatening and Intimidating

Case Result: All charges dismissed

Client was charged with leaving threatening messages for his ex-girlfriend. After negotiating the matter with the prosecutor all charges against the client were dismissed. The Client was also given shorter domestic violence classes.

Felony DUI

Case Result: Charges reduced to misdemeanor

Client was charged with felony DUI for driving against traffic while impaired. Ultimately the case was reduced to misdemeanor from felony. Client had been facing four months in prison if convicted of felony.

Domestic Violence Criminal Damage

Case Result: Client offered a better plea with no jail at time of trial

Client was charged with damaging property belonging to him and girlfriend. At time of trial the state offered a much better plea than originally offered that included no jail instead of 30 days originally sought.

Super Extreme DUI

Case Result: Charged reduced

Client was charged with super extreme DUI but was offered a plea to regular DUI with much lower jail and lower fines.

Extreme DUI

Case Result: Client found not guilty after bench trial

Chose to have the Judge decide the case for strategic reasons. Judge found the client not guilty of all counts.

Domestic Violence Assault, 5 Counts

Case Result: All charges dismissed at time of trial

Client was facing 120 days in jail. All charges dismissed at time of trial when the state was not able to proceed without needed witnesses.

Extreme DUI

Case Result: Extreme DUI reduced to Regular DUI

The client was had their Extreme DUI reduced to a Regular DUI. Client was facing several weeks in jail.

Aggravated Assault

Case Result: Not Guilty on all counts

City of Mesa - Client was found Not Guilty on an all counts including assault. Client was facing 60 days jail.

Child Endangerment

Case Result: All Charges Dismissed

Mesa City Court - Defendant charged with child endangerment. All charges dismissed at time of trial. Client was facing 60 days in jail.

Child Endangerment

Case Result: Not Guilty after trial.

Scottsdale City Court - Client found not guilty of child endangerment after trial. Client had been facing 15 days in jail.

Marijuana DUI

Case Result: Charges reduced to reckless driving.

Mesa City Court - Client had their charges of a Marijuana related DUI reduced to Reckless Driving in the Mesa City Court.

Standard DUI

Case Result: Charges reduced to reckless driving.

Scottsdale City Court - Client had their charges of a Standard DUI reduced to Reckless Driving in the Scottsdale City Court.

Domestic Violence Charges

Case Result: Not guilty after trial

Mesa City Court - Not guilty after trial on domestic violence disorderly conduct. Client was facing 30 days in jail.

Felony Domestic Violence

Case Result: Reduced to misdemeanor with no jail

Maricopa County Superior Court - Client charged with felony Domestic Violence Disorderly Conduct. Client was facing prison time. Charge reduced to misdemeanor with no jail.

Criminal Defense Lawyer In Phoenix & Scottsdale

Please fill out the quick form and we will be in touch with you as soon as we can!

Phoenix

3317 E. Bell Road, Suite 101-271, Phoenix, AZ 85032

Scottsdale

4400 Scottsdale Rd. Suite. 9-294, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

Open 24/7

(602) 428-7537

(602) 492-9170

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Legal Disclaimer:

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. Benikov Law Firm's legal team is licensed to practice law in Arizona. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.