In Bedford County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties up to 12 months in jail for Class 1 misdemeanors; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Bedford County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. A Possession with Intent to Distribute lawyer Bedford County can help protect your rights and future.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses)
Virginia law defines criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Bedford County prosecutes all criminal cases. A PWID defense lawyer Bedford County understands the specific statutes and procedures that apply to your case. The court at 123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523 handles all criminal matters for the county.
Key statutes governing criminal law in Bedford County include:
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia General Assembly
- Bedford County General District Court — Official Virginia Courts website
Bedford County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. An intent to distribute charge lawyer Bedford County knows the local procedures and can guide you through each step.
- Initial Appearance: You appear before the magistrate who sets bond conditions. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea at Bedford County General District Court. The court sets a trial date within 4-8 weeks for misdemeanors.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any forensic evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors or constitutional violations.
- Trial or Plea: You either proceed to trial before a judge or negotiate a plea agreement with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties within statutory ranges. First-offender programs may allow for dismissal upon completion.
In Bedford County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration. The specific penalties depend on the classification of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Class 1 | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record, employment barriers |
| Class 2 Misdemeanor | Class 2 | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Class 5 Felony | Class 5 | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Felony record, voting rights loss |
| Class 6 Felony | Class 6 | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Felony record, firearm restrictions |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s deep understanding of Virginia law. The firm’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects its commitment to clients across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
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
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, also oversees criminal defense matters in Bedford County. His background as a former prosecutor and his experience amending Virginia law provide clients with a strategic advantage.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Bedford County: 3 dismissed or not guilty, 1 other favorable — a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include charges such as underage alcohol possession and computer solicitation. The firm also has 4,739+ firm-wide results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
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, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523). The location is accessible via Route 460, Route 122, Route 221, and Route 24.
We serve the communities of Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. 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 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. 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.
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.