Every crime in California is defined by a specific code section. Our attorneys explain the law, penalties and best defense strategies for every major crime in California.
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Every crime in California is defined by a specific code section. Our attorneys explain the law, penalties and best defense strategies for every major crime in California.
California DUI
DUI arrests don't always lead to convictions in court. Police officer mistakes, faulty breathalyzers and crime lab errors may get your charges reduced or dismissed. Visit our California DUI page to learn more.
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A criminal record can affect job, immigration, licensing and even housing opportunities. In this section, we offer solutions for clearing up your prior record.
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The term “speed contest” means for one motor vehicle to race against another while on a public street, or in an area not designated for a car race. It can also refer to the act where you race a car against some type of timing device (such as a stopwatch).
Engaging in a speed contest is sometimes referred to as:
Note that some jurisdictions extend criminal liability under speed contest laws to:
A violation of a speed contest law is typically charged as a misdemeanor (as opposed to a felony or an infraction). Depending on the facts of the case, a first-time offense could lead to:
Most jurisdictions say that you commit the crime of engaging in a “speed contest” if you:
Note that the term “vehicle” has a broad definition and includes any device that a person can move along a road or highway.2 This definition may include a:
Please also keep in mind that you are typically only guilty of engaging in a speed contest if you race upon a public roadway. Under state traffic laws, speed contests normally do not include races upon property that is:
The answer often depends on the state in which a race takes place. Some state laws say that you are only guilty of engaging in a speed contest if you race a motor vehicle.
But other jurisdictions say that you can face criminal charges if you:
Many states do make a distinction between a speed contest and a “speed exhibition.”
While a speed contest carries the definition above, an exhibition of speed refers to driving a car to display its speed or power. Speed exhibitions typically involve:
As with a speed contest, speed exhibitions are criminal offenses that a district attorney will typically file as misdemeanors.5
Many states consider a speed contest a form of reckless driving. This means a prosecutor can charge the offense under either a state’s:
You are usually guilty of “reckless driving” if you operate a motor vehicle with wanton and reckless disregard for the safety of others.6
Reckless driving is typically filed as a misdemeanor and is punishable by:
Penalties will likely increase if you commit the crime and:
Yes. If you are facing a speed contest charge, it is critical that you contact a skilled defense lawyer or law firm for help.
A defense attorney will help you obtain the best possible outcome in a case. For example, an attorney can help you raise a legal defense to contest a charge.
Possible defenses include that:
A successful defense can result in:
Note that most defense lawyers provide free consultations. This means you can receive legal advice at no charge.
Further, your communications with an attorney are protected by the attorney-client relationship. This protection means a lawyer cannot disclose your confidences without first gaining your consent.
A former Los Angeles prosecutor, attorney Neil Shouse graduated with honors from UC Berkeley and Harvard Law School (and completed additional graduate studies at MIT). He has been featured on CNN, Good Morning America, Dr Phil, The Today Show and Court TV. Mr Shouse has been recognized by the National Trial Lawyers as one of the Top 100 Criminal and Top 100 Civil Attorneys.