Public Intoxication Lawyer Bedford County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Public intoxication in Bedford County is a Class 4 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-388, punishable by a fine up to $250. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending public intoxication charges in Virginia. Our public intoxication lawyer Bedford County provides 24/7 consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Public Intoxication Law
Virginia law defines public intoxication under Va. Code § 18.2-388. The statute makes it unlawful to be intoxicated in public to the degree you endanger yourself, others, or property, or are annoying to others. This is a criminal charge, not a civil infraction. The law requires the prosecution to prove you were in a public place and your intoxication met the statutory threshold. A public intoxication lawyer Bedford County can challenge the evidence on both elements.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-388 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Bedford County is available at the Bedford County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Public Intoxication in Bedford County
Public intoxication cases in Bedford County are heard at the Bedford County General District Court located at 123 East Main Street, Suite 202. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. An experienced drunk in public defense lawyer Bedford County knows that prosecutors often offer diversion or dismissal for first-time offenders, especially if no other misconduct occurred.
- Receive a summons or be arrested and released on a summons.
- Appear for your arraignment date at Bedford County GDC.
- Consult with your attorney to review evidence and police reports.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, diversion, or reduced charge.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached.
- If convicted, explore options for appeal to Bedford County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Public Intoxication in Virginia
In Bedford County, a public intoxication conviction is a Class 4 misdemeanor carrying a fine of up to $250.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Intoxication (Va. Code § 18.2-388) | Class 4 Misdemeanor | None | Up to $250 | None | Criminal record, possible difficulty with employment/background checks |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bedford County Public Intoxication Charge
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 achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing misdemeanor charges in Virginia courts. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your record and future.
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
Our firm has a history of successful outcomes in public intoxication cases. For example, we have secured nolle prosequi (dismissal) of public intoxication charges in Virginia General District Courts. In one Fairfax County case, the charge was dismissed after our attorney challenged the sufficiency of the evidence regarding public endangerment.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including experienced attorneys like Mr. Sris, leverages this proven track record when defending clients in Bedford County.
Contact Our Public Intoxication Lawyer Serving Bedford County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Bedford County courts. We represent individuals in Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Public Intoxication in Bedford County
Is public intoxication a criminal charge in Virginia?
Yes. Public intoxication under Va. Code § 18.2-388 is a Class 4 misdemeanor, which is a criminal offense. A conviction will appear on your criminal record, unlike a traffic infraction.
Can a public intoxication charge be dismissed in Bedford County?
It depends. A skilled public intoxication charge dismissed lawyer Bedford County can often negotiate a dismissal for first-time offenders, especially if you complete an alcohol awareness class or community service. The likelihood depends on the specific facts and your prior record.
Do I need a lawyer for a public intoxication ticket?
Yes. While the fine may seem small, a criminal conviction can have long-term consequences for employment, housing, and professional licensing. A lawyer can work to get the charge dismissed or reduced to avoid a permanent record.
What is the penalty for public intoxication in Virginia?
The maximum penalty is a $250 fine. There is no jail time for a simple public intoxication conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-388. However, if the intoxication leads to other crimes (like disorderly conduct), those charges carry separate, more severe penalties.
What court handles public intoxication in Bedford County?
Public intoxication cases are heard at the Bedford County General District Court located at 123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, VA 24523. The phone number is (703) 636-5417.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
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