Reckless Driving Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland
Experienced Defense Against Reckless Driving Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with reckless driving in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face a serious misdemeanor offense under Maryland Transportation Article § 21-901.1. Prosecutors treat these cases aggressively, especially when the charge involves speeds 30 miles per hour or more above the posted limit or driving that demonstrates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property. A conviction can result in jail time, substantial fines, points on your driving record, license suspension, and increased insurance premiums.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing reckless driving charges throughout Baltimore County. With more than a decade of dedicated service defending clients in Towson, Essex, Catonsville, and surrounding communities, our firm focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and protecting your future with thoughtful, personalized advocacy.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
A reckless driving charge in Baltimore County requires prompt, compassionate legal guidance. The earlier you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and explore all available options.
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve under Maryland Transportation Article § 21-901.1.
What Is Reckless Driving Under Maryland Law?
Maryland Transportation Article § 21-901.1 defines reckless driving as operating a motor vehicle:
- In wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property;
- In a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property; or
- At a speed at least 30 miles per hour above the posted speed limit.
The statute also addresses negligent driving — driving in a careless or imprudent manner that endangers any property or the life or person of any individual. While both are misdemeanors, reckless driving carries harsher penalties and more severe collateral consequences on your driving record.
Penalties for Reckless Driving in Baltimore County
- Reckless driving conviction: Up to 60 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
A reckless driving conviction typically adds 5 points to your Maryland driving record, which can lead to license suspension, higher insurance rates, and potential SR-22 filing requirements. Multiple convictions or aggravating factors (such as injury or high speed) increase the likelihood of harsher outcomes
Strong Defenses to Reckless Driving Charges
At Shepard Law, we carefully review every aspect of the State’s case to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Insufficient evidence of wanton or willful disregard for safety
- Speed measurement challenges or inaccuracies (especially for the 30+ mph over threshold)
- Lack of endangerment to persons or property
- Constitutional violations involving the traffic stop or evidence collection
- Mistaken identity or extenuating circumstances
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each reckless driving case with care and attention, working closely with clients to pursue the most appropriate resolution—whether through negotiation for reduction to a lesser offense (such as negligent driving or a non-moving violation), dismissal, or trial.
Why Choose Shepard Law for Reckless Driving Defense in Baltimore County
Stephen P. Shepard is a respected Baltimore County criminal defense attorney recognized by Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star,” Avvo with a 10.0 “Superb” rating, Martindale-Hubbell as a “Client Champion Platinum,” and The National Trial Lawyers as a “Top 40 Under 40.” He is an active member of the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association and regularly appears in Baltimore County courts.
Our Towson office, located at 303 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Towson, MD 21204, serves clients across Baltimore County. At Shepard Law, you receive client-centered and compassionate representation focused on your individual needs and long-term well-being.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve.
Reckless driving is a must-appear traffic offense under Transportation Article § 21-901.1. A person drives
recklessly by operating a vehicle in wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property, or in a
manner that indicates such disregard. Driving at a speed of 30 miles per hour or more above the posted limit can
also support the charge.
The maximum penalty is 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. A conviction also results in 5 points on the Maryland
driving record. The points can lead to further administrative action by the Motor Vehicle Administration.
Reckless driving cases are heard in District Court in Towson, Essex, or Catonsville. Because the maximum penalty
is 60 days, the defendant does not have a right to a jury trial on this charge alone.
No. The statute does not require an accident or any injury. The State can prove the charge by showing that the
manner of driving demonstrated wanton or willful disregard for safety, even if no collision occurred.
The State must prove that the accused operated a motor vehicle on a highway and that the operation was in
wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property, or in a manner that indicates such disregard.
Speed evidence, officer observations, and any video can be used to meet that burden.
Yes. Shepard Law represents clients facing reckless driving citations in Baltimore County. Principal attorney
Stephen P. Shepard appears in District Court in Towson, Essex, and Catonsville. Call (410) 648-4008 to schedule a
free, confidential consultation.
