In Bedford County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine for Class 1 misdemeanors. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Bedford County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. A False Claims lawyer Bedford County can help you understand your options.
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Bedford County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Virginia Law
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors carry up to 6 months and $1,000. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Bedford County prosecutes all criminal cases. A False Claims lawyer Bedford County understands these statutory classifications and how they apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Legal Resources
Review the complete criminal code at the Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures are available through the Bedford County General District Court website.
What to Expect in Bedford County Court
Bedford County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523. Cases typically proceed from arraignment to trial within 4-8 weeks for misdemeanors.
- Step 1: Arraignment — Your first court appearance where charges are read and a plea is entered. Bond is set by the magistrate.
- Step 2: Discovery — Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- Step 3: Pre-trial Motions — Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Step 4: Trial or Plea — Your case proceeds to trial before a judge, or you negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecutor.
- Step 5: Sentencing — If convicted, the judge imposes penalties within statutory ranges. First-offender programs may be available.
- Step 6: Appeal — You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to Bedford County Circuit Court for a new trial.
In Bedford County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration. The table below outlines potential consequences under Virginia law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Disorderly Conduct (§ 18.2-415) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Bedford County Criminal Defense?
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ cases firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. A False Claims lawyer Bedford County from our firm brings this depth of experience to your defense.
Bedford County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Bedford County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable — a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include a not guilty verdict for domestic assault and battery in Bedford County Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court, and a charge taken under advisement for underage alcohol possession with dismissal upon completion of community service.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Bedford County Criminal Defense Services
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Bedford County courts (123 East Main Street). We are accessible via Route 460, Route 122, Route 221, and Route 24. We serve Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Bedford County? Our team provides full representation for all criminal matters in Bedford County.
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
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Bedford County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Bedford County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and $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 are heard at Bedford County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Bedford County, Virginia?
Yes. 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.
How does bail work in Bedford County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Bedford County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Bedford County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Bedford County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Bedford County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 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.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Shenandoah County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Frederick County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Bedford County DUI Lawyer
- Bedford County Reckless Driving Lawyer
- Bryan Block — Former VA State Trooper
- Our Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.