Criminal Defense Lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Augusta County
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This includes offenses from assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to theft and drug crimes. The classification system determines penalties: Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine), Class 2 misdemeanor (up to 6 months, $1,000), and felonies (Class 5: 1-10 years; Class 6: 1-5 years).
Last verified: March 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm combines over 120 years of legal experience to handle criminal cases in Augusta County.
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (law.lis.virginia.gov). For court information, visit the Augusta County General District Court website (vacourts.gov).
Augusta County Court Process
Augusta County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Augusta County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from GDC. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Augusta County prosecutes cases.
- Initial Arrest and Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment in General District Court: You appear at Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, Staunton) to enter a plea.
- Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Trial or Plea Agreement: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC. Felony cases move to Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Augusta County
In Augusta County, criminal offenses carry significant penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500; felonies from 1-10 years imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no contact |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Why Choose Our Augusta County Criminal Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a unique combination of perspectives to Augusta County criminal cases. Our team includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher and former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block. This dual insight—understanding both prosecution strategies and police procedures—provides a distinct advantage in building defenses, challenging evidence, and negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
Founded in 1997, our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases across Virginia. We focus on thorough case preparation and assertive courtroom representation.
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 Augusta County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 total documented case results across all practice areas in Augusta County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate in our local caseload. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts in criminal matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Serving Augusta County and Surrounding Communities
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Augusta County courts. We are accessible via I-81, I-64, Route 11, and Route 250. As a criminal defense lawyer near Augusta County, we provide representation throughout the region.
We serve Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Augusta County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Augusta 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 Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401). 13 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Augusta County, Virginia?
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 Augusta County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 13 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Augusta County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Augusta County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Augusta 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 Augusta County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Augusta County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 13 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Augusta County?
Augusta County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Augusta 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. Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Resources
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Our state hub page.
Shenandoah County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Serving neighboring jurisdiction.
Augusta County DUI/DWI Lawyer – Related practice area in Augusta County.
Attorney Bryan Block Profile – Learn more about your attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.