Criminal Defense Lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Augusta County
Virginia classifies crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under § 18.2-57, is the most serious misdemeanor level. A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more under § 18.2-95, carries 1 to 10 years in prison. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings direct insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Review the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For local court procedures and forms, visit the Augusta County General District Court website.
Augusta County Court Process
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings start at Augusta County General District Court at 6 East Johnson Street in Staunton. Felony jury trials and appeals happen at Augusta County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Augusta County prosecutes these cases.
- Arraignment: You will hear the formal charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence from the prosecution and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): The prosecution must show probable cause for a felony charge to proceed to Circuit Court.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Your case may proceed to a bench trial in GDC, a jury trial in Circuit Court, or be resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Virginia’s sentencing guidelines and statutory limits.
Augusta County Criminal Penalties
In Augusta County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to over a decade in prison, depending on the classification of the offense.
| 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 under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum fine for DUI-related suspension |
*Grand larceny is punishable by 1-20 years or, for property valued under $5,000, may be punished as a Class 6 felony (1-5 years). Results may vary.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond is typical for felonies, where a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%. Public defender eligibility is based on income. A court-appointed attorney fee ranges from $120 for a misdemeanor to $445 or more for a felony.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our approach is guided by the principle of global advocacy with local precision. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients in Augusta County.
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 Augusta County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 total documented case results across all practice areas in Augusta County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include charges that were dismissed, reduced, or resulted in not guilty verdicts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Augusta County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts. The office is accessible via I-81, I-64, Route 11, Route 250, and Route 340. We provide representation for clients in Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
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 Augusta County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Augusta County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Augusta 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 Augusta County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Augusta County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond is typical for felonies, where a bail bondsman charges approximately 10% of the bond amount. Bond decisions can be appealed to Augusta County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Augusta County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent criminal record. An attorney can protect your rights and work toward a favorable outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Augusta County?
Augusta County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Augusta 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 potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
For more information on criminal defense across Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby counties including Shenandoah County and Rockingham County. If you are facing other charges in Augusta County, consider our services for DUI/DWI defense or family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.