Our Law Firm Has Been Featured on All of the Above Media Outlets
Please fill out the form and someone will be in touch with you shortly.
Payment Plans
In the fast-paced world of traffic law, few charges carry the immediate impact and potential consequences of exhibition of speed. Also known as “speed ex,” this vehicle code violation involves driving a vehicle in a manner that demonstrates a willful or wanton disregard for safety through excessive speed, acceleration, or attention-grabbing maneuvers. If you find yourself facing these charges, it’s crucial to understand the gravity of the situation and have a dedicated legal advocate fighting for your rights. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, our experienced attorneys are committed to providing the knowledgeable guidance and aggressive representation you need to navigate this complex legal landscape.
Exhibition of speed is a serious offense that poses significant risks not only to the driver but also to pedestrians, other motorists, and property. While the specifics of these laws can vary by jurisdiction, California‘s statutes offer a clear framework for understanding this offense, its penalties, and potential defenses.
The primary law governing exhibition of speed in California is Vehicle Code 23109(c) VC. This statute makes it an offense to engage in a motor vehicle speed contest on a highway or to exhibit the speed of a vehicle in an unreasonable or imprudent manner, without regard for conditions, potential hazards, or other motorists. This can include actions like:
It’s essential to understand the specific nature of the charges you face, as this can significantly impact the potential consequences and the most effective defense strategies.
A conviction for exhibition of speed in California can lead to severe penalties, ranging from hefty fines to jail time. The exact consequences depend on the specifics of the offense, including any prior convictions.
Exhibition of speed is typically charged as a misdemeanor in California, which can result in:
The penalties for exhibition of speed can be enhanced if the offense resulted in property damage or bodily injury, or if the defendant has previous related convictions. In these cases, the consequences can be even more severe.
The serious nature of these penalties underscores the importance of having a skilled legal advocate in your corner when facing exhibition of speed charges.
While the consequences of an exhibition of speed conviction can be severe, there are defenses that a knowledgeable attorney can employ to fight the charges or mitigate the potential penalties. Some common defenses include:
One key element of exhibition of speed is that the defendant must have willfully engaged in the conduct. If the evidence suggests that you did not intend to exhibit speed or engage in a speed contest, this could form the basis of a strong defense.
In rare cases, a defendant might argue that they had to accelerate rapidly due to an emergency situation that necessitated such action, like avoiding an imminent collision.
If you genuinely believed that you were legally allowed to accelerate in a specific area designated for such purposes, this could potentially serve as a defense to the charges.
Your attorney may challenge the prosecution’s evidence as insufficient to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were exhibiting speed. This could involve questioning the reliability of witness testimony or the accuracy of speed measuring equipment.
If you were forced to engage in the exhibition of speed under threat of immediate harm from another person, effectively removing your free will, this could serve as a defense to the charges.
Facing exhibition of speed charges can be a stressful and frightening experience. The potential consequences of a conviction can be life-altering, impacting your freedom, your driving privileges, and your financial well-being. That’s why it’s critical to have a dedicated and experienced legal advocate fighting for you.
At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, our attorneys have the knowledge, skill, and determination to provide the robust defense you need. We will:
With our deep understanding of California’s exhibition of speed laws and our commitment to defending our clients’ rights, you can trust that your case is in capable hands.
If you or a loved one is facing exhibition of speed charges in California, don’t wait to seek the experienced legal representation you need. Contact the Law Offices of David S. Chesley today at (800) 755-5174 for a confidential consultation. Our attorneys are available 24/7 to provide the guidance and advocacy you need during this challenging time.
Whether you’re in the heart of a bustling city or a quiet suburban community, the Law Offices of David S. Chesley has local experts familiar with the nuances of California law in your area. Our diverse team of legal professionals strategically located across California brings a deep understanding of local legal matters to your case.
In California, an exhibition of speed involves driving a vehicle in a manner that shows a willful disregard for safety through excessive speed, rapid acceleration, or attention-grabbing maneuvers. This can include actions like revving the engine loudly, peeling out from a stop, or swerving at high speeds. California Vehicle Code Section 23109(c) specifically addresses this offense.
The penalties for an exhibition of speed conviction in California can include probation, up to 90 days in county jail, fines and fees amounting to several hundred dollars, mandatory attendance at a specialized driving school, and potential suspension of your driver’s license.
Answer: Exhibition of speed is typically charged as a misdemeanor in California. However, if the offense resulted in property damage, bodily injury, or if you have previous related convictions, the charges and penalties can be more severe.
Yes, a conviction for exhibition of speed in California can result in the suspension of your driver’s license, depending on the circumstances of your case and your prior driving record.
If you’re charged with exhibition of speed, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. Don’t wait to consult with a lawyer – the earlier you have legal representation, the better your chances of building a strong defense and protecting your rights. Your attorney can help you understand your options, explore defense strategies, and fight to protect your freedom and driving privileges.
An experienced attorney can thoroughly analyze the evidence in your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, develop a strong defense strategy, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate fiercely for your rights in court.
Some common defenses against exhibition of speed charges include lack of intent, necessity (in emergency situations), mistake of fact, insufficient evidence, and duress (if you were threatened to engage in the behavior).
Yes, revving your engine loudly at a stop light in a manner that draws attention to your vehicle’s speed capabilities can be considered an exhibition of speed under California Vehicle Code Section 23109(c).
If your exhibition of speed resulted in property damage or bodily injury to another person, you can face enhanced charges and more severe penalties, potentially including longer jail time and higher fines.
In California, an exhibition of speed conviction will typically stay on your driving record for 3 years. However, the conviction may be visible to law enforcement and courts for a longer period of time, potentially impacting future cases and sentencing decisions. It’s important to discuss the long-term implications of a conviction with your attorney.
