A typical reckless driving case in Rhode Island District Court resolves in 3 to 6 months from arraignment, depending on continuances and pre-trial motions. Simple cases without contested factual issues can resolve in a single appearance or two through plea negotiation. Cases involving suppression motions (challenging the stop or evidence) or contested trials take longer. Cases that include additional charges (DUI, eluding, leaving the scene) take longer because the defense and prosecution must work through all charges simultaneously. The earlier the defense engages, the more leverage exists for reduction or dismissal.
