Criminal Defense Lawyer in Bedford County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Bedford County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity. Misdemeanors include assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96). Felonies include grand larceny ($1,000+) and more serious violent crimes. Your case will be heard at Bedford County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, or Bedford County Circuit Court for felony trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court information, procedures, and forms, see the Bedford County General District Court website.
Bedford County Criminal Court Process
After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. First-offense misdemeanors often get personal recognizance release. Felonies typically require secured bond through a bail bondsman. Your first court date is an arraignment at Bedford County General District Court.
- Arraignment: Enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest at Bedford County General District Court.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- Pre-trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors exist.
- Plea Negotiation: Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
- Trial: Present your defense before a judge in GDC or a jury in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing/Appeal: If convicted, argue for minimal penalties. You can appeal GDC decisions to Circuit Court.
Bedford County Criminal Penalties
In Bedford County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison. A Class 1 misdemeanor brings up to 12 months jail; a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years.
| 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 | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and defense strategy.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Bedford County Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper who understands police investigation tactics and a former Maryland prosecutor who knows how the Commonwealth builds its case. We focus on the details Bedford County prosecutors use.
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
Bedford County Criminal Defense Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in Bedford County: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 1 other favorable outcome—a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Bedford County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Bedford County courts. We represent residents of Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta. Contact us for 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747—meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
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.
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.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Bedford County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Bedford County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A defense attorney protects your rights and builds your case.
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.
More Virginia Criminal Defense Resources
For a complete overview of Virginia criminal law, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. If you need defense in nearby counties, see our pages for Shenandoah County criminal defense lawyer and Frederick County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal needs in Bedford County, consider our Bedford County DUI lawyer or Bedford County family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.