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 with a 100% favorable outcome rate. A Manslaughter Lawyer Bedford County can help you understand your options.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Bedford County
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 6 felony carries 1-5 years in prison. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Bedford County prosecutes all criminal cases at the Bedford County General District Court, located at 123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 — Crimes and Offenses (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Bedford County General District Court (official Virginia Courts website)
What to Expect in Bedford County Court
Bedford County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Cases are typically scheduled 4-8 weeks from arraignment for misdemeanors.
- Arrest and initial appearance before the magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment at Bedford County General District Court where you enter a plea.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery exchange with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or plea negotiation before the presiding judge.
- Sentencing hearing if convicted, or expungement petition under § 19.2-392.2 if dismissed.
In Bedford County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time depending on the classification of the offense.
| 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 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (over $1,000) | Felony | 1-20 years | Up to $100,000 | 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. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. The firm has achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, D.C. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
In Bedford County, we have 4 documented results: 3 dismissed or not guilty, and 1 other favorable outcome — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases.
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 Bedford County
Our firm has 4 documented results in Bedford County: 3 dismissed or not guilty, and 1 other favorable outcome. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for our Bedford County criminal defense clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Bedford County Criminal Defense Services
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Bedford County courts, accessible via Route 460, Route 122, Route 221, and Route 24. We serve the communities of Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Bedford County? Our team is available 24/7 for phone consultations.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
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 carries up to 6 months and $1,000. 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.
How does bail work in Bedford County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies, with bail bondsmen charging approximately 10%.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Bedford County, Virginia?
Yes, even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Our firm has 4 documented results in Bedford County with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
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 a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
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.