Criminal Defense Lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia
Augusta County criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry severe penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 documented case results in Augusta County across all practice areas. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a strategic edge in Augusta County General District Court.
Facing criminal charges in Augusta County requires immediate action to protect your rights and future.
Virginia Criminal Law in Augusta County
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2, defines offenses prosecuted in Augusta County. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Augusta County handles prosecutions. Cases begin at the Augusta County General District Court for misdemeanors and felony preliminary hearings. More serious felonies proceed to Augusta County Circuit Court for jury trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (law.lis.virginia.gov). Information about the Augusta County General District Court, including location and hours, is available on the Virginia Courts official website (vacourts.gov).
Augusta County Court Process
The criminal process in Augusta County follows specific local procedures. Understanding these steps can significantly impact your case outcome.
- Initial Arrest and Bond: A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear at Augusta County GDC (6 East Johnson St, Staunton) to enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial: Your attorney reviews evidence and files motions, which may lead to reduced charges.
- Resolution: Your case may be resolved through a plea agreement, dismissal, or trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a GDC decision to Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Augusta County
In Augusta County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the offense classification.
| 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 possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman, who typically charges 10%) is typical for felonies. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for a misdemeanor to $445 or more for a felony, based on income eligibility.
Our Experience in Augusta County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of 13 case results in Augusta County across all practice areas. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, providing unique insight into police procedures and evidence.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
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 for these matters. These results include dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements achieved in Augusta County General District and Circuit Courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Serving the Augusta County Area
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts. We are accessible via I-81, I-64, Route 11, Route 250, and Route 340. If you need a criminal defense lawyer near Augusta County, Staunton, or Waynesboro, we are here to help.
We serve the communities of 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.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
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
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Shenandoah County and Rockingham County. In Augusta County, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about Bryan Block’s background as a former State Trooper.
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.