Criminal charges in Bedford County carry serious penalties — a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 can mean up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Bedford County, with 3 dismissals or not guilty verdicts. Your defense starts now.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors range from Class 1 (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 4 (up to 30 days, $250 fine). Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 1 (life in prison). The specific charge determines the classification, penalties, and court where your case is heard. Bedford County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Bedford County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
For the complete statutory framework, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Bedford County General District Court website for local procedures.
Bedford County General District Court at 123 East Main Street handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases here. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion. Expungement is available for acquittals, nolle prosequi, and dismissals under § 19.2-392.2. Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arrest or Summons: You receive a summons or are arrested. A magistrate sets bond — personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- First Court Date (Arraignment): You appear at Bedford County General District Court. The charge is read, and you enter a plea. This is the critical point to request a first offender program.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence — police reports, witness statements, body camera footage.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or negotiate a plea.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials happen in GDC. Felony preliminary hearings in GDC determine if the case moves to Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately in GDC. You have 10 days to appeal to Circuit Court for a new trial.
In Bedford County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time depending on the classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Permanent criminal record; vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent felony record; loss of voting rights; firearm prohibition |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Bedford County specifically, the firm has 4 documented results: 3 dismissed or not guilty, 1 other favorable — a 100% favorable outcome rate. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Also handling cases in Bedford County: Kristen M. Fisher (Of Counsel, Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney — joined firm 2010; Bar: Maryland, Virginia) and Matthew Greene (30+ years experience; death penalty certified formerly; 14-year CPS contract in Alexandria).
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented case results in Bedford County: 3 dismissed or not guilty, 1 other favorable — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Notable results include: a computer solicitation of a minor charge in Bedford County Circuit Court where bond was granted; an underage alcohol possession charge in Bedford County J&DR Court taken under advisement for 12 months with dismissal upon completion of community service.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock Location serves clients at Bedford County courts (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523), accessible via Route 460, Route 122, Route 221, and Route 24. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Bedford County, serving Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Bedford County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2: 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?
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. 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.
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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.