In Bedford County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry 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 3 dismissals/not guilty. Former prosecutors on staff. 24/7 consultations.
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Bedford County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all criminal offenses at the Bedford County General District Court (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523). Misdemeanors are classified as Class 1 (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) or Class 2 (up to 6 months, $1,000 fine). Felonies range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The firm was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who brings firsthand knowledge of prosecution strategies to every defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For official legal references, consult the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Bedford County General District Court website.
In Bedford County General District Court, prosecutors routinely handle high volumes of misdemeanor cases. This creates opportunities for early resolution before trial. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion of terms.
- Contact a defense lawyer immediately after arrest or citation.
- Review the charging document for accuracy and potential defenses.
- Attend all scheduled court appearances at Bedford County General District Court.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or diversion.
- If no agreement, prepare for trial or preliminary hearing.
- Appeal any adverse GDC decision to Bedford County Circuit Court within 10 days.
In Bedford County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, 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 |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Criminal record, possible vehicle impoundment |
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 handled 4,739+ cases firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds cases. “Advocacy Without Borders” is our guiding principle.
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: 4,739+ 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, and Route 24. Serving Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Bedford County? We serve all surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (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. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000.
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.
How does bail work in Bedford County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies.
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 visible to employers. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747.
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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.