Criminal Defense Lawyer in Bedford County, Virginia
Criminal Charges in Bedford County
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses, while felonies are more serious. The Bedford County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Bedford County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Bedford County prosecutes all cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
Review the official Virginia criminal statutes: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court information, visit the Bedford County General District Court website.
Bedford County Court Process
Your case will follow a specific path in Bedford County. Understanding each step helps you prepare.
- Arraignment: You appear in Bedford County General District Court to hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): If charged with a felony, the court determines if there is enough evidence for a trial.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and may file motions to challenge the case.
- Trial: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. Felony jury trials happen in Bedford County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a penalty based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You can appeal a General District Court decision to the Bedford County Circuit Court.
Criminal Penalties in Bedford County
In Bedford County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 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 | 1-20 years | Court discretion | 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 Experience in Bedford County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have a documented record of results in Bedford County courts. Our approach is case-specific, built on a deep understanding of local procedures.
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
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 are 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 lawyer can protect your rights and work toward a favorable outcome.
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.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Bedford County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Bedford County courts. We represent individuals in Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Bedford County.
24/7 phone consultations — (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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Shenandoah County and Frederick County. In Bedford County, we also handle DUI defense and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.