Criminal Defense Lawyer in Bedford County, Virginia
Criminal Charges in Bedford County
Virginia law defines criminal offenses in Title 18.2 of the state code. These range from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies, all prosecuted by the Bedford County Commonwealth’s Attorney. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this legal knowledge to build your defense.
Last verified: March 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal laws, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). For Bedford County court information, see the Bedford County General District Court official site.
Bedford County Court Process
Your case starts at Bedford County General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. The court is at 123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523.
- Arraignment: You appear in court, hear the charges, and enter a plea.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the evidence the prosecution has against you.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to challenge evidence or seek dismissal.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your case may resolve through a plea agreement or proceed to a bench trial in GDC.
- Appeal or Circuit Court: You can appeal a GDC conviction or, for felonies, your case moves to Bedford County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Criminal Penalties in Bedford County
In Bedford County, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony can result in 1-10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Possible first offender program |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Our Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on providing full representation in criminal matters. In Bedford County, our documented results show a strong record of favorable outcomes for our clients.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results in Bedford County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Bedford County: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 other favorable outcome.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Bedford County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Bedford County courts. We are accessible via Route 460, Route 122, Route 221, and Route 24. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta. We serve the Bedford County area and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Bedford County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Bedford County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Bedford County General District Court (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523). 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Bedford County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Bedford County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Bedford County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Bedford County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Bedford County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Bedford County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Bedford County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Bedford County General District Court (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Bedford County?
Bedford County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Bedford County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Bedford County General District Court (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Shenandoah County criminal defense and Frederick County criminal defense. In Bedford County, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.