What Every Driver Should Know About Speeding in Virginia

For decades, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has stood as a bulwark for drivers navigating the intricate web of Virginia’s traffic laws. As a senior attorney who has witnessed countless evolutions in the Commonwealth’s legal landscape, I can attest that understanding Virginia’s speeding regulations is not merely advisable – it is imperative. A seemingly minor misstep on the accelerator can quickly escalate into a legal quagmire, impacting your driving privileges, financial stability, and even your criminal record.

This comprehensive guide delves into the nuances of Virginia speeding laws, distinguishing between standard infractions and the far more serious offense of reckless driving by speed. We will dissect the potential consequences, demystify the legal process, and outline proactive strategies to protect your driving future. My intent is to equip you with the foundational knowledge necessary to make informed decisions should you find yourself facing a speeding summons in Virginia.

The Far-Reaching Consequences and Stakes of Speeding in Virginia

A Virginia speeding ticket carries significant and often underestimated consequences that extend beyond an immediate fine, potentially impacting your driving record, insurance rates, and even leading to criminal charges in severe cases, requiring a comprehensive understanding of Virginia’s legal framework.

In Virginia, speeding is not just a simple traffic infraction; it can quickly escalate into a serious legal matter with lasting repercussions. The Commonwealth takes a particularly stringent stance on speed enforcement, a fact I’ve observed firsthand over two decades in practice. Understanding the distinct penalties is paramount.

Traffic Infractions vs. Reckless Driving

Most speeding tickets are treated as civil traffic infractions, carrying specific fines and demerit points. However, Virginia has a critical threshold where speeding transforms into a criminal offense: Virginia Code § 46.2-862 dictates that driving “at a speed of 20 miles per hour or more in excess of the applicable maximum speed limit or in excess of 85 miles per hour regardless of the applicable maximum speed limit” constitutes reckless driving. This distinction is crucial because reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor, the same classification as DUI or assault. This means it can lead to:

• Jail Time: Up to 12 months in jail.
• Significant Fines: Up to $2,500.
• License Suspension: Up to 6 months.
• Criminal Record: A permanent criminal conviction.

Even for civil infractions, the penalties can be substantial:

• Fines: A base fine, typically $6 per MPH over the limit, plus court costs. For example, being caught doing 75 MPH in a 65 MPH zone could be a $60 fine plus court costs, but 75 MPH in a 55 MPH zone is $120 plus costs.
• Demerit Points: The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) assesses demerit points against your driving record, with different point values for varying degrees of speeding (3, 4, or 6 points). Accumulating too many points can trigger mandatory driver improvement clinics or license suspension under Virginia Code § 46.2-300 et seq.
• Increased Insurance Premiums: Insurers often view speeding convictions as an increased risk, leading to elevated premiums for several years.
• CDL Impact: For commercial drivers, a speeding conviction can jeopardize their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and livelihood.
• Employment Consequences: Certain professions require a clean driving record, and a speeding conviction, especially reckless driving, can jeopardize employment or future opportunities.

Navigating The Legal Process for a Virginia Speeding Violation

Understanding the typical legal process for a Virginia speeding violation, from the initial stop to potential court appearances and outcomes, is essential for every driver, involving interactions with law enforcement, the General District Court, and the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

The journey from receiving a Uniform Summons (traffic ticket) to a resolution in court can be daunting. As a seasoned attorney, I always advise clients to understand each stage to avoid missteps. The process typically involves several key entities and steps in Virginia:

1. The Initial Stop and Uniform Summons

The process begins when a law enforcement officer – whether from the Virginia State Police, a county Sheriff’s Office, or a local City Police Department – observes an alleged speeding violation. They will initiate a traffic stop and, if they determine a violation occurred, issue a Uniform Summons. This document serves as both a ticket and a court notice, detailing the alleged offense, the code section violated (e.g., Va. Code § 46.2-870 for exceeding maximum speed limits, or Va. Code § 46.2-862 for reckless driving by speed), and your court date.

2. Deciding How to Respond

Upon receiving the summons, you have a few options:

• Prepay the fine: This is an admission of guilt. The conviction will appear on your driving record, and demerit points will be assessed by the Virginia DMV. This option is generally not advisable for serious violations or if you wish to mitigate consequences.
• Plead Not Guilty and Appear in Court: This is the path for those who wish to contest the charge, seek a reduction, or argue for a dismissal. This is where legal counsel becomes invaluable.

3. The Court Appearance: Virginia General District Court

Traffic cases are typically heard in the General District Court of the county or city where the offense occurred. On your court date, you will appear before a judge. The prosecuting attorney, often a Commonwealth’s Attorney (if reckless driving) or the officer who issued the summons, will present the case against you. Your attorney, if you have one, will represent you, cross-examine witnesses, present evidence, and argue on your behalf.

The judge will hear testimony from the officer, possibly other witnesses, and potentially you or your attorney. They will then render a decision: guilty, not guilty, or a reduction of the charge. Potential outcomes include:

• Dismissal: The charge is dropped.
• Reduced Charge: The offense is downgraded (e.g., reckless driving reduced to improper driving under Va. Code § 46.2-869, or speeding reduced to a non-moving violation).
• Conviction as Charged: You are found guilty of the original offense.
• Deferred Finding: In some cases, especially for younger drivers or those with clean records, the judge may defer a finding, requiring good behavior for a period, after which the charge may be dismissed.

4. Post-Conviction Consequences (Virginia DMV)

If convicted, the court reports the outcome to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV is responsible for assessing demerit points, tracking your driving record, and initiating any required driver improvement clinics or license suspensions. It’s important to monitor your DMV record and address any requirements promptly to avoid further penalties.

The SRIS Virginia Speeding Defense Strategy Checklist Tool

The SRIS Virginia Speeding Defense Strategy Checklist Tool provides a structured, actionable framework for drivers to assess their situation and prepare for their court appearance, empowering them with a methodical approach to addressing a Virginia speeding charge.

Having represented countless individuals facing speeding charges, I understand the anxiety and uncertainty involved. To demystify the process and empower you with a practical approach, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has developed the SRIS Virginia Speeding Defense Strategy Checklist. This tool is designed to help you organize your thoughts, gather crucial information, and understand the steps involved in building a potential defense. While not a substitute for legal counsel, it serves as an invaluable initial guide.

The SRIS Virginia Speeding Defense Strategy Checklist

1. Review Your Uniform Summons Meticulously:
   • Is all information accurate (Name, Address, Date of Birth)?
   • Is the alleged offense clearly stated (e.g., Speeding, Reckless Driving by Speed)?
   • What Virginia Code section are you charged under (e.g., § 46.2-870, § 46.2-862)?
   • What is your assigned court date, time, and location (Virginia General District Court)?
2. Document the Incident Details Immediately:
   • Where exactly did the stop occur (street, mile marker, specific landmark)?
   • What was the posted speed limit at the precise location?
   • What was the weather like? Road conditions (wet, dry, icy)?
   • What time of day was it? How was visibility?
   • Did the officer explain how your speed was measured (radar, lidar, pacing)?
   • Were there any traffic conditions (heavy traffic, construction, emergency vehicles) that contributed to the situation?
   • Note anything the officer said or did, and your responses.
3. Gather Supporting Evidence:
   • Photos/Videos: Take pictures of the location, speed limit signs, road conditions, and any relevant signage.
   • Vehicle Inspection: Ensure your speedometer is accurate (consider professional calibration if in doubt). Check tire pressure.
   • Witnesses: Were there any passengers or independent witnesses? Obtain their contact information.
   • Driving Record: Obtain a copy of your Virginia driving record from the DMV. A clean record can sometimes be a mitigating factor.
   • Driving School Certificates: If you’ve completed a driver improvement clinic recently, bring the certificate.
4. Research the Specific Virginia Code Section:
   • Understand the elements of the charge against you. For example, for reckless driving by speed, the prosecution must prove you were driving at least 20 MPH over the limit OR over 85 MPH.
5. Identify Potential Defenses or Mitigating Factors:
   • Was the officer’s speed measurement device calibrated recently? (Pacing officers often have their speedometer calibrated.)
   • Was the officer’s observation obstructed?
   • Were there mitigating circumstances (e.g., emergency, speedometer malfunction)?
   • Is there a factual dispute about your speed?
6. Consider Attending a Driver Improvement Clinic:
   • Even before court, completing a Virginia DMV-approved driver improvement clinic can demonstrate responsibility to the court and earn safe driving points.
7. Consult with an Attorney from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.:
   • This is arguably the most critical step. A seasoned attorney can analyze your summons, review your evidence, identify the strongest legal arguments, and represent you in Virginia General District Court. Do not underestimate the value of having someone who understands the local court system and nuances of Virginia traffic law on your side.
8. Prepare for Court (If Represented):
   • Dress appropriately.
   • Arrive early.
   • Be polite and respectful to everyone in the courthouse.
   • Follow your attorney’s guidance.

Legal Strategies and Approaches for Your Virginia Speeding Case

Effectively defending a Virginia speeding charge requires a tailored strategy, often involving challenging the prosecution’s evidence, presenting mitigating circumstances, or negotiating for a reduced charge, all of which benefit from the guidance of a seasoned legal professional.

When you walk into a Virginia General District Court, you are not merely facing a fine; you are confronting a system designed to enforce regulations. My experience has shown that a well-crafted defense strategy can significantly alter the outcome. Here are common approaches we employ:

1. Challenging the Speed Measurement

The core of any speeding ticket is the alleged speed. We meticulously examine how your speed was determined:

• Radar/Lidar Calibration: Officers are required to ensure their radar or lidar units are regularly calibrated. We can request proof of recent calibration for the specific device used. A lapse in calibration can cast doubt on the accuracy of the reading.
• Officer Training: Is the officer properly trained and certified to operate the specific speed measuring device?
• Pacing Errors: If an officer used pacing (following your vehicle to estimate speed), we can question the conditions under which they paced, their speedometer’s accuracy, or if they maintained a constant distance.
• Visual Estimation: While legal, visual estimation alone is highly subjective and can often be challenged, especially if not corroborated by other evidence.
• Device Malfunction/Interference: Environmental factors (e.g., weather, traffic, electrical interference) can affect radar/lidar readings.

2. Challenging the Identification of the Driver/Vehicle

Was the officer absolutely certain it was your vehicle or you driving? In heavy traffic, misidentification can occur. While less common, it’s a point to explore if there’s any ambiguity.

3. Arguing Mitigating Circumstances

Even if the speed is not disputed, presenting mitigating factors can influence the judge’s decision:

• Emergency Situation: Were you speeding due to a genuine emergency (e.g., medical crisis, responding to an urgent family matter)? This is a high bar but can be a valid defense.
• Speedometer Malfunction: If your speedometer was faulty, and you can provide proof (e.g., repair receipts, calibration certificate), this might explain the excessive speed.
• Clean Driving Record: A history of responsible driving can demonstrate to the court that this was an anomaly rather than a pattern of reckless behavior. Providing your Virginia DMV driving record can support this.
• Good Conduct/Attitude: Your demeanor during the stop and in court can sometimes play a subtle role.
• Completing a Driver Improvement Clinic: Proactively enrolling in and completing a DMV-approved driver improvement clinic before your court date can demonstrate remorse and a commitment to safe driving, potentially leading to a reduced charge or more lenient sentencing.

4. Negotiating with the Prosecution

For serious charges like reckless driving, negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney is often a primary strategy. We can seek to have the charge reduced to a less severe offense, such as:

• Improper Driving (Va. Code § 46.2-869): This is a civil infraction, not a criminal one, carrying 3 demerit points and a lower fine, significantly better than a reckless driving conviction.
• Non-Moving Violation: In some rare instances, or for minor speeding, we might negotiate for a non-moving violation, which carries no demerit points.

5. Strategic Use of Continuances

Sometimes, requesting a continuance (postponement) of your court date can be a strategic move. This can allow time to gather more evidence, complete a driver improvement clinic, or for the officer to be unavailable on the new court date.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Facing a Virginia Speeding Charge

Avoiding common pitfalls when charged with speeding in Virginia is crucial for protecting your driving record and legal standing, as missteps can inadvertently strengthen the prosecution’s case or limit your defense options.

Over the years, I’ve observed recurring mistakes that drivers make, often inadvertently complicating their own cases. Being aware of these pitfalls can save you considerable grief and expense:

1. Admitting Guilt at the Scene or in Court: While honesty is valued, explicitly admitting to the officer that you were speeding or pleading guilty without understanding the full implications can severely limit your defense options. You are not obligated to incriminate yourself.
2. Failing to Document the Scene: Memories fade. Immediately after the stop, take notes about the location, road conditions, speed limit signs, and anything the officer said. This contemporaneous record can be invaluable.
3. Not Checking the Uniform Summons for Errors: Clerical errors on the summons (wrong name, license number, court date, code section) can sometimes be grounds for dismissal or at least create leverage. Always review it carefully.
4. Prepaying the Fine Without Considering Consequences: Prepaying a Virginia speeding ticket is an admission of guilt. This results in demerit points on your Virginia DMV record, potential insurance rate hikes, and for CDL holders, possible job repercussions. For reckless driving charges, prepayment is often not even an option due to the severity.
5. Ignoring the Court Date: Failing to appear in court on your assigned date will almost certainly result in a conviction by default, a substantial fine, and potentially a suspended license. Never miss your court date.
6. Not Obtaining Your Virginia Driving Record: Your driving history is critical. A clean record can be a powerful mitigating factor, while a record with prior offenses may require a different defense approach. Obtain it from the Virginia DMV before court.
7. Not Preparing to Testify (If Representing Yourself): If you choose to speak in court without an attorney, anything you say can be used against you. Be prepared, stick to the facts, and avoid emotional outbursts or arguments.
8. Underestimating Reckless Driving by Speed: Many drivers assume “reckless driving” is just a fancy speeding ticket. In Virginia, it’s a criminal misdemeanor with a lasting criminal record, potential jail time, and license suspension. This is not a charge to take lightly.
9. Failing to Seek Legal Counsel for Serious Charges: Especially for reckless driving or high-speed infractions, attempting to navigate the Virginia General District Court system alone is a significant risk. An attorney from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings experience, knowledge of local court nuances, and negotiating skills that can significantly impact your outcome.

Glossary of Key Virginia Speeding & Traffic Law Terms

A clear understanding of legal terminology related to Virginia speeding and traffic laws is essential for drivers to comprehend their charges, potential outcomes, and the legal process they are navigating.

Uniform Summons:

The official document issued by a law enforcement officer in Virginia, serving as both a traffic ticket and a notice to appear in court for an alleged traffic offense.

Demerit Points:

Points assessed by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) against a driver’s record for certain traffic violations. Accumulating too many points can lead to mandatory driver improvement clinics or license suspension.

Reckless Driving (by Speed):

A criminal Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, defined under Va. Code § 46.2-862, typically involving driving 20 MPH or more over the posted limit or over 85 MPH, regardless of the limit.

Improper Driving:

A civil traffic infraction under Va. Code § 46.2-869 that a reckless driving charge may be reduced to, carrying fewer demerit points and a lower maximum fine, and is not a criminal offense.

General District Court:

The primary trial court in Virginia where most traffic violations, including speeding tickets and reckless driving charges, are heard.

Commonwealth’s Attorney:

The prosecutor representing the Commonwealth of Virginia in criminal cases, including reckless driving charges, in the General District Court.

DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles):

The state agency responsible for issuing driver’s licenses, vehicle registrations, and maintaining driving records in Virginia, including assessing demerit points for convictions.

Common Scenarios & Questions Virginia Drivers Face

Exploring realistic scenarios and addressing common questions provides practical context to Virginia’s speeding laws, helping drivers understand how legal principles apply to real-world situations and better prepare for potential traffic challenges.

Scenario 1: The Out-of-State Driver

Question: “I’m from Maryland, got a speeding ticket in Virginia doing 70 in a 55 zone. Will this affect my Maryland license and insurance?”

Answer: Yes, absolutely. Under the Interstate Driver’s License Compact, Virginia will report your conviction to the Maryland MVA. Maryland will then typically assess points on your Maryland driving record as if the offense occurred in Maryland, and your insurance premiums are likely to increase. For out-of-state drivers, understanding Virginia’s laws is critical because the consequences follow you home. Engaging legal counsel can often help mitigate these interstate impacts.

Scenario 2: The High-Speed Reckless Driving Charge

Question: “I was caught doing 90 MPH on I-95 in Virginia. The officer charged me with reckless driving. What am I facing?”

Answer: This is a serious criminal charge under Va. Code § 46.2-862. You are facing a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries potential penalties of up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a license suspension of up to 6 months. This will also result in a permanent criminal record. It is imperative to have seasoned legal representation from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a charge of this magnitude. We would explore all possible defenses and mitigation strategies, including aiming for a reduction to improper driving.

Scenario 3: The Driver with a Clean Record

Question: “This is my first speeding ticket ever in Virginia. I was doing 70 in a 60 zone. Should I just prepay it?”

Answer: While it might seem minor, even a 10 MPH over ticket results in demerit points (3 points) on your Virginia DMV record and can increase your insurance premiums. If you have a clean record, you have leverage. The court might be open to dismissing the charge upon completion of a driver improvement clinic, or reducing it to a non-moving violation, which would prevent points and keep your record pristine. Prepaying forfeits these opportunities. Consulting with an attorney is advisable even for seemingly minor infractions to explore the best outcome.

Scenario 4: Speeding in a Work Zone/School Zone

Question: “I got a speeding ticket in a Virginia highway work zone, 50 in a 35. Are the penalties worse?”

Answer: Yes, absolutely. Virginia law imposes enhanced penalties for speeding in highway work zones (under Va. Code § 46.2-878) or school crossing zones (under Va. Code § 46.2-878.1). These violations often carry mandatory minimum fines that are significantly higher than regular speeding tickets, and can also lead to increased demerit points. Additionally, if the speeding is excessive, it could still escalate to a reckless driving charge. These are situations where an attorney’s intervention is highly beneficial to seek mitigation of the severe penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Speeding Laws

These frequently asked questions provide direct, authoritative answers to common concerns drivers have regarding Virginia’s speeding laws, from understanding demerit points to navigating court procedures.

Q1: How many demerit points do I get for a speeding ticket in Virginia?

The number of demerit points depends on the severity of the speeding. For regular speeding, it’s typically 3 or 4 points. For reckless driving by speed, it’s 6 points. These points stay on your Virginia DMV record for two years from the date of the offense. Accumulating 12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months can lead to mandatory driver improvement clinic attendance or license suspension.

Q2: Can a speeding ticket in Virginia be reduced to a non-moving violation?

It is possible, but not guaranteed. In Virginia, a reduction to a non-moving violation (which carries no demerit points) is typically sought through negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney or by arguing mitigating factors to the judge. This is more likely for minor speeding infractions and for drivers with otherwise clean records. An attorney’s experience in such negotiations is invaluable.

Q3: What’s the difference between speeding and reckless driving by speed in Virginia?

Speeding is generally a civil traffic infraction, while reckless driving by speed is a criminal Class 1 misdemeanor. You can be charged with reckless driving if you are driving 20 MPH or more over the posted speed limit, or if you are driving over 85 MPH regardless of the speed limit (as per Va. Code § 46.2-862). The penalties for reckless driving are far more severe, including potential jail time, higher fines, and a criminal record.

Q4: How long does a speeding ticket stay on my Virginia driving record?

A speeding conviction generally remains on your Virginia DMV driving record for 5 years, while more serious violations like reckless driving or DUI stay for 11 years. Demerit points, however, only remain active for 2 years from the offense date for the purpose of license suspension thresholds.

Q5: Do I need to appear in court for a Virginia speeding ticket if I just want to pay it?

If your summons indicates that prepayment is an option, and you choose to pay the fine, you generally do not need to appear in court. However, by prepaying, you are admitting guilt, accepting the demerit points, and agreeing to the full consequences. For reckless driving charges, prepayment is typically not an option, and a court appearance is mandatory.

Q6: Can I get points removed from my Virginia driving record?

You cannot “remove” points once they are assessed for a conviction. However, you can earn “safe driving points” by driving safely for a full calendar year (one point per year, up to five points). You can also earn 5 safe driving points by completing a Virginia DMV-approved driver improvement clinic. These safe driving points offset demerit points and can help improve your overall point balance.

Q7: What should I do if the officer’s radar/lidar reading seems wrong?

If you believe the speed measurement was inaccurate, this can be a basis for defense. You would need to plead not guilty and prepare to challenge the officer’s testimony in court. This could involve questioning the device’s calibration, the officer’s training, or environmental factors that could have interfered with the reading. This is a complex area where legal counsel is highly recommended.

Q8: Will a Virginia speeding ticket affect my car insurance rates?

Yes, almost certainly. Insurance companies consider speeding convictions a risk factor. Even minor speeding tickets can lead to an increase in your premiums for several years. More serious convictions, like reckless driving, will typically result in substantial and long-lasting increases. The exact impact varies by insurer and your overall driving history.

Q9: Can I get a restricted license if my license is suspended for speeding?

If your Virginia driver’s license is suspended due to a speeding conviction or accumulation of demerit points, you may be eligible to petition the court for a restricted license. A restricted license allows you to drive for specific purposes, such as work, school, or medical appointments. Eligibility depends on the nature of the offense and your driving record. An attorney can assist with this petition.

Q10: Is it worth hiring an attorney for a speeding ticket in Virginia?

For any speeding ticket, and especially for reckless driving charges, hiring an attorney is highly advisable. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can assess the strength of the evidence against you, identify potential defenses, negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced charge, represent you in court, and protect your rights. The cost of an attorney often outweighs the long-term costs of higher insurance premiums, demerit points, and potential license suspension or criminal record.

Q11: What if I was speeding due to an emergency?

If you were speeding due to a genuine emergency (e.g., medical emergency, responding to a crisis), this can be presented as a defense or a mitigating factor. You would need to provide credible evidence to the court to support your claim. The judge will weigh the circumstances carefully. This is a factual defense that requires careful presentation, often with an attorney’s guidance.

Q12: How do Virginia’s maximum speed limits work?

Virginia Code § 46.2-870 sets general maximum speed limits, which are often 55 MPH on highways or 25 MPH in residential/business districts, unless otherwise posted. However, speed limits can vary significantly based on the road type (e.g., interstates often 70 MPH), specific zones (school zones, work zones), and local ordinances. Always observe posted speed limit signs as they override general statutes.

Q13: Can I fight a speeding ticket if the officer didn’t show up to court?

If the police officer who issued your summons does not appear in Virginia General District Court on your scheduled date, it is likely that your case will be dismissed. However, this is not guaranteed, as the Commonwealth’s Attorney may be able to proceed without the officer or the judge might grant a continuance. Always appear in court yourself to ensure your presence is noted and to take advantage of this possibility.

Q14: What is a “deferred finding” in a Virginia speeding case?

A deferred finding is when a judge postpones making a final judgment on your case. Often, this is contingent on you fulfilling certain conditions, such as completing a driver improvement clinic, having no further violations for a set period (e.g., 6 months or a year), or community service. If you meet the conditions, the charge may be dismissed. It’s typically offered to those with clean records or for minor infractions.

Q15: Does Virginia have photo enforcement for speeding?

Virginia law currently allows for the use of photo speed monitoring devices in school crossing zones and highway work zones, primarily to enforce speed limits in these sensitive areas. If caught by such a device, a civil penalty is imposed, typically without demerit points, but it’s still a costly violation. Standard traffic stops for speeding by an officer are separate from photo enforcement.

At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we understand that a speeding ticket can be more than just an inconvenience; it can be a serious legal challenge with long-term implications. Our seasoned attorneys are here to provide the authoritative guidance and vigorous representation you need to navigate Virginia’s complex traffic laws.

Don’t let a speeding charge define your driving future. Take decisive action now. Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at 888-437-7747 for a confidential case review. Protect your rights and your driving record with a firm that has decades of hands-on experience in Virginia traffic law.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. The laws are complex and subject to change. For advice on specific legal issues, please consult with a qualified attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. No attorney-client relationship is formed by reading this content. Results in prior cases do not guarantee a similar outcome.