Concealed Firearm Defense Lawyer in Bedford County, Virginia
Carrying a concealed firearm without a permit in Bedford County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-308, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Bedford County. Our concealed firearm defense legal counsel Bedford County provides 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Carrying a Concealed Firearm
Virginia law strictly regulates the carrying of concealed weapons. The primary statute, Va. Code § 18.2-308, makes it illegal to carry about your person any pistol, revolver, or other weapon designed or intended to propel a missile of any kind, hidden from common observation, without a valid permit. A valid concealed handgun permit issued by the Commonwealth is a defense to this charge. However, even with a permit, carrying a concealed weapon in certain prohibited places (like schools or courthouses) remains illegal. The law also prohibits possession by certain persons, such as convicted felons.
Penalties for Concealed Firearm Charges in Bedford County
In Bedford County, a concealed firearm violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carrying Concealed Firearm (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Potential loss of firearm rights | Permanent criminal record |
| Carrying Concealed Firearm (Subsequent Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights | Felony record |
| Possession by Convicted Felon | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (mandatory minimum may apply) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Felony record, federal charges possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach for Bedford County Cases
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to firearm defense. Our team understands that a charge can stem from a misunderstanding or an oversight regarding permit status. We examine every detail, from the legality of the traffic stop or encounter to the search and seizure of the weapon. We scrutinize whether the weapon was truly “hidden from common observation” as defined by law and verify the validity of any permits. In Bedford County, we have documented results defending clients against these serious allegations.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
In Bedford County, our concealed firearm defense attorney Bedford County team has documented results. We approach each case with a focus on protecting your rights and future. Every case is unique, and we develop a strategy based on the specific facts and circumstances you face.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Concealed Firearm Defense Legal Counsel Bedford County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location — 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 | Local: (540) 535-0012
By appointment only.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Bedford County courts. We provide concealed firearm defense lawyer near Bedford County and the communities of Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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: up to 6 months/$1,000. 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 heard at Bedford County General District Court (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523). 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate)
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Bedford County, Virginia?
It depends. 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. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate)
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
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 ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Bedford County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
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 (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 other favorable (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
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. Bedford County General District Court (123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523) is the GDC location.
Related Practice Areas: Bedford County DUI Lawyer | Bedford County Reckless Driving Lawyer
Nearby Locations: Shenandoah County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Augusta County Criminal Defense Lawyer
State Hub: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.