In Bedford County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Bedford County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Former prosecutors on staff provide strong defense.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Bedford County
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). 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 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). Bedford County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Bedford County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, leads the firm’s criminal defense practice.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For the complete criminal code, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures, visit the Bedford County General District Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Bedford County Court
Bedford County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Bedford County prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate who sets bond.
- Arraignment at Bedford County General District Court (123 East Main Street, Suite 202).
- Discovery phase where your attorney reviews evidence from the Commonwealth.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial before a judge (GDC) or jury (Circuit Court on appeal).
- Sentencing or dismissal based on outcome.
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 | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny over $1,000 | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Bedford County Criminal Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has achieved 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.” In Bedford County, we have 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate). Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Case Results in Bedford County
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. Examples include: Underage Alcohol Possession charge taken under advisement with dismissal upon completion of community service (Bedford County J&DR Court). Computer solicitation of a minor charge — bond granted (Bedford County Circuit Court).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bedford County Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Bedford County courts (123 East Main Street). Accessible via Route 460, Route 122, Route 221, and Route 24. Serving Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Bedford County
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 (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523). 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate).
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. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate).
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. Public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
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 (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate). 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. Bedford County General District Court (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523) is the GDC location.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.