Reckless Driving in Nevada: More Serious Than You Think

Many drivers think of reckless driving as just another traffic ticket. In reality, Nevada treats reckless driving as a criminal offense — and the penalties can be just as serious as some DUI charges. Whether your case is in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, a reckless driving conviction can affect your license, your insurance, and even your criminal record.



What Is Reckless Driving in Nevada?


Under Nevada law (NRS 484B.653), reckless driving means driving “in willful or wanton disregard of the safety of persons or property.” This is more than just speeding — it’s driving in a way that deliberately ignores safety.


Examples can include:


  • Excessive speeding far above the posted limit
  • Aggressive weaving through traffic
  • Street racing
  • Running multiple red lights or stop signs
  • Passing illegally in dangerous conditions


Even a single act of extremely dangerous driving can qualify.




Penalties for Reckless Driving


The penalties for reckless driving in Nevada depend on whether it’s your first offense and whether anyone was injured.


First offense (no injury):


  • Misdemeanor criminal charge
  • $250–$1,000 fine
  • 8 demerit points on your driving record
  • Possible jail time of up to 6 months (rare for first offenses, but possible)


If someone is injured or killed:


  • Felony charges, with the possibility of 1–6 years in prison
  • Significantly higher fines
  • Permanent criminal record




Reckless Driving vs. DUI


In some cases, DUI charges can be reduced to reckless driving as part of a plea deal. While reckless driving is still a criminal offense, it usually carries fewer long-term consequences than a DUI. However, this doesn’t mean a reckless driving conviction is “no big deal” — it still goes on your record and can lead to license suspension.




How Reckless Driving Impacts Your Record


Reckless driving is not just a traffic citation — it’s a misdemeanor or felony criminal offense, depending on the circumstances. A conviction will appear on background checks, can cause your insurance rates to spike, and may affect certain job opportunities that require driving.


Demerit points also stay on your driving record for 12 months, and too many points can lead to a license suspension.




Defending Against a Reckless Driving Charge


An experienced Nevada defense attorney can challenge a reckless driving charge by:


  • Questioning the accuracy of speed readings or other evidence
  • Showing that your driving did not meet the legal definition of “reckless”
  • Negotiating for a reduced charge, such as careless driving, which carries fewer penalties


Every case is different, but having legal representation can make a big difference in how your case is resolved.




Protect Your Record and Your License


At Max Stovall Law, we represent clients facing reckless driving charges throughout Douglas County and Washoe County. We know how quickly a moment on the road can turn into a serious legal problem — and how to fight for the best possible outcome.


If you’ve been charged with reckless driving, don’t take it lightly. Contact us today for a free consultation and start protecting your driving record and your future.

Divorce in Nevada: What to Expect in Douglas and Washoe Counties

September 24, 2025
Going through a divorce can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Questions about money, children, and the future can feel overwhelming, and the legal system adds another layer of uncertainty. If you’re considering divorce in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, here’s a complete guide to how divorce works in Nevada — from filing requirements to final judgment. Residency Requirements To file for divorce in Nevada, at least one spouse must live in the state for six consecutive weeks before filing. Residency must be proven, often with a signed affidavit from a witness who can confirm your presence in the state. This relatively short residency requirement makes Nevada one of the easier states in which to file for divorce. Where to File Divorces must be filed in the district court for the county where either spouse lives: Douglas County: Ninth Judicial District Court in Minden Washoe County: Second Judicial District Court in Reno Filing in the correct county ensures your case proceeds smoothly. Grounds for Divorce in Nevada Nevada is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don’t have to prove wrongdoing like adultery or abandonment. Instead, most divorces are filed under: Incompatibility (irreconcilable differences) Living separately for at least one year without cohabitation Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce Uncontested divorce: Both spouses agree on all issues, including custody, property division, and support. This is the fastest and least expensive option, sometimes finalized within weeks. Contested divorce: Spouses disagree on one or more major issues. This process can take months or longer, often requiring hearings, mediation, or a trial. Key Issues in Nevada Divorces 1. Division of Property Nevada is a community property state. This means all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally divided 50/50. Separate property — assets owned before marriage or received as gifts/inheritances — typically remains with the original owner. Disputes often arise over business interests, retirement accounts, and real estate. 2. Spousal Support (Alimony) Alimony isn’t automatic in Nevada. Courts consider factors such as: Length of the marriage Financial needs and earning capacity of each spouse Contributions to the household or one spouse’s career Standard of living during the marriage Support may be temporary, rehabilitative (helping one spouse retrain for work), or long-term. 3. Child Custody and Support Custody decisions are made based on the best interest of the child (NRS 125C.0035). Courts prefer joint custody when possible, but factors such as stability, parental fitness, and history of domestic violence or substance abuse weigh heavily. Child support is calculated using Nevada’s statutory guidelines, which consider the parents’ income and the number of children. Divorce Timeline in Nevada Uncontested divorce: As little as 6–8 weeks Contested divorce: 6 months to over a year, depending on complexity and court schedules Costs of Divorce The cost of divorce varies. Court filing fees in Washoe and Douglas Counties are typically several hundred dollars. Attorney fees depend on whether the divorce is uncontested or contested — contested divorces are significantly more expensive due to additional hearings and trial preparation. Mediation and Alternatives Nevada courts encourage mediation for custody and parenting disputes. Mediation can help couples avoid long, costly trials while maintaining more control over the outcome. Modifying Divorce Decrees Life changes after divorce. Custody, support, and even alimony orders can sometimes be modified if you show a significant change in circumstances, such as job loss, relocation, or new financial needs. Local Representation in Douglas and Washoe Counties Divorce is never easy, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Max Stovall Law , we guide clients in Douglas County, Washoe County, and throughout Northern Nevada through every step of the divorce process. From straightforward uncontested cases to complex, contested divorces, we fight to protect your rights, your children, and your financial future.

Child Custody in Nevada: How Courts Decide

August 27, 2025
Few issues in family law cause more stress than child custody. Parents want to know: What will happen to my kids? How will the court decide? In Nevada, custody decisions are based on what the court believes is in the best interest of the child. If you’re going through a divorce or separation in Douglas County, Washoe County, or elsewhere in Northern Nevada, here’s what you need to know about how custody is decided. Types of Custody in Nevada Nevada recognizes two main types of custody: • Legal custody: The right to make important decisions about your child’s education, healthcare, and upbringing. • Physical custody: Where the child lives and who provides day-to-day care. Custody can be joint (shared between parents) or sole (granted primarily to one parent). Courts prefer joint custody when possible, believing children benefit from ongoing relationships with both parents. The “Best Interest of the Child” Standard Under Nevada law (NRS 125C.0035), judges must prioritize the child’s best interests above all else. Factors the court considers include: • The child’s relationship with each parent • Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home • The child’s physical, developmental, and emotional needs • The child’s preference, if mature enough to express it • Any history of domestic violence, neglect, or substance abuse • The willingness of each parent to foster a relationship between the child and the other parent No single factor is decisive — judges weigh all circumstances carefully. Modifying Custody Orders Custody isn’t set in stone. If circumstances change — such as one parent moving, changes in a child’s needs, or concerns about safety — custody orders can be modified. To do this, the requesting parent must show a substantial change in circumstances and prove the modification would benefit the child. Local Custody Cases in Douglas and Washoe Counties Custody cases in Douglas County are typically heard in the East Fork Justice Court or District Court in Minden, while Washoe County cases are handled at the Second Judicial District Court in Reno. Each court has its own procedures, but both apply the same Nevada custody laws. Having an attorney who knows the local judges and practices can make a real difference. Protecting Your Parental Rights At Max Stovall Law, we know how important your children are. We’ve helped parents across Northern Nevada navigate custody disputes with compassion and strength, fighting for arrangements that serve both the child’s best interests and the parent’s rights. If you’re facing a custody dispute, don’t face it alone. Contact us today for a free consultation.