Bedford County Criminal Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A criminal charge in Bedford County is a serious matter under Virginia law, carrying penalties from fines to incarceration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for misdemeanors and felonies in the Bedford County General District and Circuit Courts. Our firm has documented results defending clients in this jurisdiction. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings by appointment only.
Virginia Criminal Law in Bedford County
Criminal offenses in Virginia are defined by the Code of Virginia and prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors, like simple assault (Va. Code § 18.2-57), to felonies such as grand larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-95). The specific court and procedures depend on the charge’s classification.
Last verified: March 2026 | Bedford County General District & Circuit Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Code of Virginia (law.lis.virginia.gov). For Bedford County court information, including locations and filing procedures, refer to the Bedford County Circuit Court website (vacourts.gov).
Bedford County Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case path depends on whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanors start in General District Court; felonies begin with a preliminary hearing there before potentially moving to Circuit Court for trial.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be given a date to appear in Bedford County General District Court.
- Consult Defense Counsel: Contact an attorney immediately to discuss the charges and possible defenses.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal.
- Adjudication: Your case will proceed to a bench trial in General District Court or, for felonies, to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You have the right to appeal a General District Court decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Virginia Criminal Charges
In Bedford County, criminal penalties are set by Virginia law and vary significantly based on the offense classification and your prior record.
| Offense Class | Incarceration Max | Fine Max | License Impact | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | 12 months | $2,500 | Possible suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 mos.) | $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 mos.) | $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Our Firm’s Background in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience handling cases across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. We focus on a case-specific approach for each client in Bedford County.
Documented Case Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ case results across our service states, with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+. This extensive experience informs our defense strategies for Bedford County residents.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Representation in the Bedford County Area
Our Virginia location serves Bedford County and surrounding communities like Forest, Goode, and Moneta. We are accessible to residents throughout the area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
[Bedford, VA Office Address from GMB_Attributes]
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested in Bedford County?
Remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Politely request to speak with an attorney. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have consulted with your lawyer. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 as soon as possible.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Virginia?
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes punishable by up to 12 months in jail. Felonies are more serious offenses with potential prison sentences exceeding one year. The court process and long-term consequences differ significantly between the two.
Can a criminal charge be dismissed in Bedford County?
Yes. Charges may be dismissed if the evidence is insufficient, if your rights were violated during the arrest, or as part of a negotiated agreement. An experienced attorney can evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case to seek dismissal.
How long does a criminal case take in Bedford County?
Timelines vary. A simple misdemeanor may resolve in a few months, while a complex felony case can take a year or more. Factors include court scheduling, evidence discovery, and whether the case goes to trial.
Will I go to jail for a first-time offense in Virginia?
It depends on the charge. For many first-time, non-violent misdemeanors, alternatives like probation, fines, or community service are possible. An attorney can advocate for these alternatives to avoid jail time.
Related Legal Services
For other legal needs in Virginia, explore our Virginia criminal defense hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, our Roanoke County criminal lawyer page may be relevant. In Bedford County, we also assist with traffic violations and DUI charges.
Learn more about your attorney: Kristen Fisher profile.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.