Driver Improvement Courses

Budget Driver Improvement
(757) 969-1096
Multiple locations
www.vadmvclass.com

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Computer based driver improvement clinics
http://www.dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#pcbased.html

La Escuelita DIP – Escuela de Manejo en Virginia
Spanish Speaking Driver Improvement Course
703-928-6852
Providing the driver improvement course in Spanish in Richmond, Virginia Beach and Northern Virginia
La Escuelita DIP somos una escuela certificada por el DMV, con instructores altamente certificados para enseñarte los diferentes cursos, convirtiéndose los estudiantes en conductores mejorados y más seguros
laescuelitadip.com

RADEP Providers (Reckless and Aggressive Driver Education Program)

This program requires both the standard 8 hour driver improvement course and a separate 4 or 6 hour RADEP course. Some RADEP providers require you to take both classes with them, but others allow you to take any 8 hour class and then complete their RADEP class. Contact the provider before you begin a class.

A&AAA Be Better Drivers, 804-748-2851, https://www.bebetterdrivers.com.
All Wise Driving School, Richmond, Tel. 804-218-7350, https://www.allwise-drivingschool.com
AcciDon’t Driver Training Solutions LLC, Damon Hogan, Tel 757-235-4994, [email protected], website: https://www.varadep.com. The primary location is 138 S. Rosemont Road, 2nd floor suite #203, Virginia Beach, VA 23452. They also offer classes at other locations in Hampton Roads.
Road Rage and Aggressive Driving Course https://angerclass.com
Take any provider’s standard 8-hour driver improvement course and then complete the 4-hour aggressive driving course here.
American Safety Institute Online Aggressive Driving Course https://americansafetyinstitute.com
Complete the entire 12 hour program, the basic and aggressive driving sections, with one provider.
This is a good option if you do not need positive points for DMV (i.e. you are already +4 or +5).
However, if you need the 5 points from a driver improvement course, check with the provider first.
I have not been able to confirm that this course provides points for Virginia drivers.

June 4, 2018

Referral Attorneys

Referral Attorneys Information. Holcomb Law, PC, assists clients with DUI / DWI, reckless driving, speeding and other serious traffic charges in Newport News, Hampton, York County, Williamsburg, Gloucester, New Kent, Isle of Wight, Surry, Charles City, Norfolk and the neighboring cities and counties.

For other legal matters or locations, please contact:

Bob Keefer, Esquire
Keefer Law Firm, PLC
540-433-6906
[email protected]
578 East Market Street #102
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Harrisonburg / Woodstock

Brian Gillette, Esq.
Gillette Law Group, PLLC
Tel. 757-220-4529/ 757-2209451
www.gillettelawgroup.com
1315 Jamestown Rd, Suite 102, Williamsburg, VA 23185
Disability Benefits, Chair, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, Social Security Law Section

Chris Woodfin, Woodfin Law
757-808-5236
[email protected]
Traffic charges from Williamsburg to the Richmond area.
Estate planning.

Jeremy Forrest, Esq.
Forrest Law Center
Tel. 757-273-0700
[email protected]
https://www.forrest.law/
1313 Jamestown Road, Suite 202
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Business Law, Real Estate Settlement Services, Estate planning and administration.

Kevin Wilson, Esquire
The Wilson Law Firm
703-361-6100
https://www.tkevinwilsonlawyer.com/
9300 Grant Avenue, Suite 301
Manassas, VA 20110

Melissa Howell, Esquire
Howell Law Group, PLLC
757-630-4030
[email protected]
4669 South Blvd., Suite 107
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Howell Law Group, PLLC – Hampton Roads Employment Law (howellhrlaw.com
Employment Law

Paul McGlone, Esquire
McGlone Law Firm, P.C.
703-273-2750
https://www.mcglonelaw.com/home
4085 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 400
Fairfax, VA 22030
Northern Virginia

Reed N. Noble, Esquire
The Reed Noble Law Firm PLLC
910-302-7862
[email protected]
5114 Yadkin Road, Suite 100
Fayetteville, NC 28303
North Carolina

Travis N. Wheeler, Esquire
Law Office of Travis N. Wheeler, PLLC
919-989-8990
P O Box 1598
Smithfield, NC 27577-1598

Lawyer referral and review service:
www.avvo.com

April 29, 2018

DMV Demerit Points

Posted by Mark Matney of Holcomb Law, PC Newport News VA
www.matneylawpllc.com
__________________________________

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses a point system to monitor Virginia drivers. The DMV assigns demerit points for driving convictions and rewards safe driving and driver improvement courses with positive points.

A new Virginia driver begins with 0 points. This applies to both first time drivers and drivers who transfer from another state. Drivers earn one point for each calendar year without any traffic infractions or license suspensions. Completing a driver improvement course accelerates the process by providing 5 positive points. Points may only be earned through the course once every two years. The maximum a driver may earn is 5 points.

Courts do not assign demerit points directly. Instead, the DMV assigns demerit points based on the nature of the court conviction. Demerit points are deducted for every moving violation. Each infraction is assigned a point value of -3, -4, or -6, depending on the severity of the offense. Speeding 20+ mph over the limit and all misdemeanors (i.e. reckless driving, DUI, driving with a suspended license) are assigned 6 demerit points. Examples of 4 demerit point violations are speeding (10-19 mph over limit), passing when unsafe, and failure to yield right of way. 3 demerit point violations include speeding (1-9 mph over limit), improper U-turn, and failure to obey a highway sign. If a driver is convicted of more than one violation in the same incident, then DMV will only assign points for the most severe charge.

There is no limit to how many negative points a driver could accumulate. However, DMV will place a driver on probation if he accumulates 12 or more points in a 12-month period or 18 or more points in a 24-month period. An additional demerit point violation while on probation results in suspension of the driver’s license without a restricted license.
For more information about DMV demerit points or traffic infractions, you may refer to www.dmv.virginia.gov or contact Mark Matney at MatneyLawPLLC.com

Traffic Violations

The Lawyers at Attorney Mark Matney - Holcomb Law, PC in Newport News Virginia defend people against traffic violations. Attorney Mark Matney defends people in traffic court against reckless driving, speeding, expired registration, expired license, running a red light or stop sign, failure to wear a seat belt, DUI, DWI, driving without a license or with a suspended license, leaving the scene of an accident, hit-and-run accidents, passing a stopped school bus. Our attorneys serve Williamsburg, Newport News, Hampton, Yorktown, Gloucester, Surry County, Toano.

So You Got A Ticket

Traffic tickets are serious business.

While many view traffic violations as minor infractions and nuisances, traffic tickets and moving violations have the power to wreak havoc on your life. Fees quickly mount, and points from tickets can cause your insurance premiums to skyrocket or result in a revoked or suspended license. Attorney Mark Matney - Holcomb Law, PC does not underestimate the seriousness of traffic violations and doggedly works on your behalf to get the charges you face reduced or dismissed.They can result in fines, court costs and points being placed against your driving record. Accumulating enough points within a two-year period subjects a person to additional sanctions by the Motor Vehicle Administration, including driving school, an official warning letter, a point system conference, suspension or even revocation or driving privileges. And imagine how high your car insurance will be.

Handling a wide array of traffic violation cases

I regularly represent clients charged with traffic violations, including:

Reckless driving
Speeding
Expired registration
Expired license
Running a red light or stop sign
Failure to signal when changing lanes
Failure to wear a seatbelt
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Driving without a license or with a suspended license
Leaving the scene of an accident
Violating license restrictions
Hit-and-run accidents
Passing a Stopped School Bus
Failure to Yield
Unsafe Lane Change
Following too Closely
Whether you have been charged with a moving or nonmoving violation, I possess the knowledge needed to protect your best interests in traffic court.

April 19, 2018

Today in Newport News

Posted by Mark Matney of Holcomb Law, PC Newport News VA
www.matneylawpllc.com
__________________________________

Today in Newport News... Attorney Mark Matney helped four clients accomplish their goals in Newport News courts. The first client was charged with driving on a suspended license, 2nd offense. He needed more time to reinstate his license before his final hearing and the judge granted him a continuance.

Two of the clients were charged with reckless driving by speed with speeds over 80 mph. Both of these clients received amendments to traffic infractions and avoided misdemeanor convictions.

The fourth client received the greatest benefit when his three charges related to an accident were dismissed. It does not happen often, but this client’s dismissals were the result of a law enforcement officer who was not present due to taking another job.

These results were fun, but the day also included another highlight. A stranger paid for my lunch at the hotdog stand across from the courthouse when the vendor had trouble running my credit card.

April 16, 2018

DUI Not Guilty and DUI Dismissed

During the past month, I achieved dismissals for two of my DUI clients. During this time I also helped other clients by negotiating the amendment of a DUI to reckless driving, the dismissal of other charges, the avoidance or reduction of jail, and other positive sentencing outcomes.

The dismissal by nolle pros was exciting for my client, but it was not extraordinary. By showing up ready for trial, I was able to take advantage of a difficulty with the prosecution’s evidence. This resulted in the prosecutor asking the judge to dismiss the case with the hope that he can possibly obtain the necessary evidence in the future.

The not guilty decision was exhilarating. DUI trials are hard fought, with most of my clients presumed to be under the influence as soon as we walk into the courtroom. In this case, I argued a legal issue to challenge the admissibility of the breath certificate and the judge agreed to exclude the breath certificate with my client’s blood alcohol level. This decision removed the presumption that my client was under the influence and left both sides to argue about the field sobriety tests. After the officer described what he remembered happening, I asked him clarifying questions and gave him the opportunity to explain how poorly he thought my client performed on the tests. The problem for the prosecution was that I then played the officer’s video of my client’s field sobriety tests and the judge was able to see that my client did not make the errors that the officer described. With the breath certificate excluded and the video demonstrating that my client did well on the field tests, the judge disregarded the officer’s testimony and found my client not guilty of driving under the influence (DUI).

Attorney Mark Matney - Holcomb Law, PC of Newport News Virginia defends people in traffic court against DUI and DWI charges

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Attorney Mark Matney - Holcomb Law, PC - Your DUI and Traffic Court Defense Team

WHEN STOPPED BY THE POLICE... It is hard to know where to turn for help. I will discuss your case with you, review the videos and reports, and guide you through each step of your case so you can have peace of mind about getting the best possible result.

Request a Free, No-Obligation Consulation

Call Mark Matney now at (757) 703-4556

January 18, 2018

Local Counsel for Federal Civil Cases

Mr. Matney has served as local counsel for Federal Civil Cases is an allied attorney with Alliance Defending Freedom, a network of Christian lawyers. In this role he has helped out of state law firms with their representation of Virginia clients in cases involving election law, religious freedom, and free speech.

Civil Cases

Herb Lux v. Virginia State Board of Elections, USDC – Richmond, 3:10-cv-482, 2010 to 2012

Local counsel for The Bopp Law Firm. Challenged Virginia election law on behalf of Tea Party candidate for congress. The Virginia Code was amended as a result of this case.

2. Christian Rights Ministries v. City of Chesapeake, USDC – Norfolk, 2:08-cv-154

Local counsel for Alliance Defending Freedom. A ministry was asked to remove their cross from their booth at the end of a parade. The City defended by claiming that there was a safety issue. The case settled.

3. U.S. v. William Danielczyk, USDC – Alexandria, 1:11-cr-85 (JCC)

Local counsel for The Bopp Law Firm. Assisted with filing amicus curiae brief on behalf of The James Madison Center for Free Speech re: campaign contributions by corporations as free speech.

July 5, 2017

DWI Amended to Reckless Driving

Posted by Mark Matney of Holcomb Law, PC Newport News VA
www.matneylawpllc.com
__________________________________

Today I was glad to help a client achieve an amendment from DWI 1^st offense to Reckless Driving General. This result avoided the DWI label while also helping the client avoid the ignition interlock and reduce the period of license suspension from 12 months to 6 months.

Each case involves its own set of circumstances and facts, so I cannot guarantee a particular outcome in a specific case. In some recent DWI cases the charges associated with the DWI case were dismissed and/or reduced without an amendment of the DWI itself. However, three other recent DWI clients in the past two weeks received amendments of their DWI charges. Two clients charged with DWI 2^nd offense had their cases reduced to DWI 1^st offense and another client received an amendment from a DWI with an elevated 0.20 blood alcohol level to the standard blood alcohol level of below 0.15.

Traffic Violations

So You Got A Ticket

Traffic tickets are serious business.

Handling a wide array of traffic violation cases

I regularly represent clients charged with traffic violations, including:

May 21, 2017

February 21, 2017

Advocate committed to challenging drunk driving charges

I understand that good people can make mistakes. I strive to protect you by zealously representing your interests at every turn. I am knowledgeable about complex Virginia DUI laws and will analyze every aspect of your case — from the initial traffic stop to Breathalyzer or blood tests — to build your defense. I know what the prosecution needs to prove to obtain a conviction and I will challenge the evidence against you with the skill I have developed through more than 20 years of practicing law. I will work diligently to help you avoid or minimize the charges against you.

After your arrest:

1. Make sure you have copies of all of the papers you signed / received. You should have the following documents:

a. Summons or warrant for each charge
b. Recognizance form demonstrating terms of your release from custody.
c. Certificate of Blood Alcohol Analysis if you took a breath test.

2. Preserve your memory of the day of your arrest by immediately writing a summary of all you can remember about the events leading up to the time of your arrest and the circumstances of the arrest itself. Be sure to include the following information:

a. Location(s) where you were drinking along with times and the number and type of drinks.
b. Witness names and contact information.
c. Statements you made to police and statements by the police.
d. List of field sobriety tests with descriptions of the instructions and results.
e. Any medical issues you were experiencing at the time of the arrest.

Contact me today for a consultation.

If you have been arrested for DUI, you need a qualified defense attorney who has the knowledge and experience to help you. Call Mark Matney at Holcomb Law, PC, today at (757) 703-4556 or contact me online to schedule a phone conference or a meeting at my Newport News, Virginia office.

February 15, 2017

Legal Services - Attorney Mark Matney

The Lawyers at Holcomb Law PC defend people against driving related charges, including DUI, DWI, reckless driving, speeding, driving with a suspended license, driving without a license, running a red light or stop sign, hit-and-run accidents, and passing a stopped school bus. Our attorneys serve the Virginia Peninsula and the surrounding areas, including Newport News, Hampton, York County, Williamsburg, James City County, Gloucester, New Kent, Surry, Isle of Wight, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Suffolk.

Call Attorney Mark Matney at (757) 703-4556 for a Free, No-Obligation Consultation!

A Coach and an Advocate

To defend you traffic violation case, I will act as your coach in preparation for your court date. I will advise you of the steps the local judges want to see in order to consider dismissing or amending your charge. I will also make sure you are ready for any questions that may be asked at your hearing. I will be your advocate in the court hearing. I will speak with the officer or trooper and examine records. I will also have the opportunity to cross-examine the officer or trooper and to present your side of the case. My goal is to ensure that you have the best possible result based on the circumstances of your case.

Handling a wide array of traffic violation cases

I regularly represent clients charged with traffic violations, including:

Driver Improvement Courses

RADEP Providers (Reckless and Aggressive Driver Education Program)

Referral Attorneys

For other legal matters or locations, please contact:

DMV Demerit Points

Traffic Violations

So You Got A Ticket

Handling a wide array of traffic violation cases

I Welcome Your Comments

Today in Newport News

DUI / DWI Defense Attorney

Attorney Mark Matney Services

DUI Case Results

DUI Not Guilty and DUI Dismissed

Local Counsel for Federal Civil Cases

Civil Cases

DWI Amended to Reckless Driving

Traffic Violations

So You Got A Ticket

I Welcome Your Comments

Handling a wide array of traffic violation cases

Request A No Fee, No Obligation Case Evaluation

Serving The Newport News area of Virginia

Advocate committed to challenging drunk driving charges

After your arrest:

Contact me today for a consultation.

Legal Services - Attorney Mark Matney

A Coach and an Advocate

Contact a qualified traffic violations lawyer today!

Handling a wide array of traffic violation cases