One of the most difficult parts of my work is handling the nuances of different judges. Virginia law allows judges to reduce, amend, or dismiss a traffic case if the defendant completes a driving school. But each judge gets to determine their own policy of how this is handled.
As you can imagine, if people get to set their policies, they will vary considerably. One judge might dismiss a case with driving school, and another judge might only reduce the same case. This is one reason hiring a local attorney is crucial.
Since I focus on traffic charges in Stafford, Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, and King George, I am familiar with the judges. I have cases before them week in and week out. I typically know when they will allow driving school and under what circumstances.
Having this knowledge gives you and me a critical advantage in preparing your case. I can advise you what outcomes may be possible and what steps we should take to get the best result for your case.
An out of town lawyer may not be as familiar with the judge who will hear your case. That could possibly put you at a disadvantage in the courtroom.
This is just one more reason why you should call a local lawyer who focuses on traffic and misdemeanor defense.