In Bedford County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Bedford County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable. A Sex Crime Lawyer Bedford County can help you understand your defense options.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses from petit larceny (§ 18.2-96) to assault and battery (§ 18.2-57). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Bedford County prosecutes all criminal cases. A Sex Crime Lawyer Bedford County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands these statutes and how they apply to your situation. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience.
For official legal references, consult the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Bedford County General District Court website. These government sources provide the most current legal information.
Bedford County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court at 123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523 processes cases efficiently. A sexual offense defense lawyer Bedford County knows the local procedures and can guide you through each step.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond setting.
- Arraignment in General District Court within 72 hours of arrest.
- Discovery phase where your attorney reviews evidence.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial in GDC for misdemeanors or preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Appeal to Circuit Court if needed for a jury 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 | Criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, voting rights loss |
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. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep legal experience. A sex charge defense strategy lawyer Bedford County from our team brings this experience to your case.
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
In Bedford County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, the firm has 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
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). Accessible via Route 460, Route 122, Route 221, Route 24.
Criminal defense lawyer near Bedford County — serving Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, Moneta.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are 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 in Bedford County. 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 and heard at Bedford County General District Court. 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.
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — Shenandoah County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Frederick County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Bedford County DUI Lawyer — Bedford County Family Law Lawyer
Bryan Block Attorney Profile — Shenandoah Office 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.