What happens at a DUI arraignment in Bedford County

A DUI arraignment in Bedford County is your first appearance before a judge at the Bedford County General District Court, located at 123 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bedford, Virginia. At this hearing, the court formally advises you of the charge — typically driving under the influence in violation of Virginia law — and you are asked to enter a plea. The proceeding also addresses whether you will be released on bail or on your own recognizance and sets the next court date. Because a DUI is a criminal offense in Virginia, the arraignment is a critical stage that can affect your license, your freedom, and your record. Having an experienced attorney present helps ensure your rights are protected from the very beginning. For legal representation at your Bedford County arraignment, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

On This Page

The Arraignment Process in Bedford County General District Court

Bedford County General District Court handles misdemeanor DUI cases, including first-offense and certain repeat-offense charges. The court sits in the Twenty‑fourth Judicial District and convenes at 123 East Main Street. When you appear for arraignment, the judge will read the charge aloud and confirm that you understand it. You will then be asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or, where permitted, no contest. If you are not represented by counsel, the judge will inquire whether you wish to hire an attorney or ask for a court‑appointed lawyer if you qualify. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel regularly appear at Bedford County General District Court and can appear with you at the arraignment to enter a plea on your behalf and to address any bail or bond issues that arise.

Bail or bond conditions are typically set at the arraignment. The judge may release you on personal recognizance, set a secured bond, or, in some circumstances, require that you remain in custody until the next hearing. The judge considers factors such as your ties to the community, prior criminal history, and the nature of the DUI charge. The arraignment also serves as the starting point for scheduling: the court will set a date for a pretrial hearing or a trial, depending on how you plead. If you plead not guilty, the case moves forward for the Commonwealth’s Attorney to provide discovery and for your attorney to file any necessary motions.

Understanding Your DUI Arraignment: What Happens Next

After the arraignment, your case enters the pre‑trial phase. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will share the evidence against you, including the arresting officer’s report, breath or blood test results, and any video or witness statements. Your attorney will review this material to identify possible defenses, such as whether the traffic stop was lawful, whether the field sobriety tests were administered properly, or whether the breath test machine was calibrated correctly. In many Bedford County DUI cases, the attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction of the charge or a favorable plea agreement. Virginia law allows plea negotiations under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia; the judge is not a party to those discussions, but the parties may present an agreed disposition once it is reached.

If a resolution is not reached, the case proceeds to trial. In Bedford County, a DUI trial is heard by a judge in the General District Court unless the charge is a felony or you appeal a conviction to the Circuit Court. During this time, your attorney will also address any immediate administrative license‑suspension issues with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. The arraignment sets the timeline in motion, and prompt action by experienced counsel can make a significant difference. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle every stage of the DUI process, from arraignment through trial or negotiated resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an arraignment in a DUI case in Bedford County?

An arraignment is the first court hearing after a DUI arrest where you are formally advised of the charge and asked to enter a plea. In Bedford County, this occurs at the General District Court on East Main Street. The judge will also address whether you will be released on bail or on your own recognizance and will schedule the next court date. It is not the trial itself, but it is a critical proceeding that can affect your liberty and driving privileges. You have the right to have an attorney present, and you should not waive that right. The arraignment typically happens within a few days of your arrest if you are held in custody, or it may be scheduled at a later date if you were released on a summons.

Do I need a lawyer at my DUI arraignment in Bedford County?

You are not required to have a lawyer at your arraignment, but it is strongly advisable to have one. A DUI charge in Virginia is a criminal offense that can lead to jail time, fines, and a license suspension. At the arraignment, the pleas you enter and the statements you make can be used against you later. An experienced attorney can help you enter the appropriate plea, argue for favorable bail conditions, and begin building your defense immediately. If you cannot afford an attorney, the court will determine whether you qualify for a court‑appointed lawyer. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are available to represent individuals at Bedford County arraignments.

What plea should I enter at my DUI arraignment?

Most defendants enter a plea of not guilty at the arraignment to preserve all legal options and allow time for their attorney to review the evidence. You may also plead guilty or, in some circumstances, no contest, but these pleas can result in an immediate conviction and sentencing. Entering a not‑guilty plea does not mean you are declaring your innocence; it simply means you are exercising your right to have the prosecution prove its case. Your attorney can advise you on the trusted plea strategy based on the specific facts of your case. Never enter a plea without first consulting with legal counsel.

Can I get bail at my DUI arraignment in Bedford County?

Yes, in most Bedford County DUI cases the judge will set bail or release you on personal recognizance at the arraignment unless there are aggravating factors such as a prior record, a high blood‑alcohol level, or a refusal to submit to testing. The judge considers factors such as your community ties, employment, and the nature of the offense. If bail is set, you may be required to post a cash or surety bond. Your attorney can argue for the least restrictive conditions possible. If you are denied bail or cannot make bond, you will remain in custody until the next hearing.

What happens if I don’t show up to my DUI arraignment?

Failing to appear at your DUI arraignment will likely result in the judge issuing a capias for your arrest and may lead to additional criminal charges for failure to appear. The court may also revoke any bail or bond previously set. You should treat the arraignment date as mandatory. If you have a legitimate emergency that prevents you from attending, you must contact your attorney immediately so they can notify the court and request a continuance. Ignoring the court date can make your legal situation far worse.

What are the possible penalties for a first DUI in Virginia?

A first‑offense DUI in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which can result in jail time, a substantial fine, mandatory alcohol‑safety education, and a driver’s‑license suspension. The court may also impose probation, community service, or an ignition‑interlock requirement. The specific sentence depends on the circumstances, including your blood‑alcohol concentration (BAC) and whether any accident or injury occurred. Because a DUI conviction can have long‑term effects on your employment, insurance, and driving record, it is important to have an experienced attorney evaluate your case and advocate for the most favorable outcome.

How long does a DUI case take in Bedford County?

The timeline for a DUI case in Bedford County varies depending on court scheduling, the complexity of the evidence, and whether the case is resolved through a plea or proceeds to trial. After the arraignment, the court will set a date for a pretrial hearing several weeks later; a trial may follow a few weeks after that. Cases can resolve more quickly if the parties reach an agreement. Your attorney can give you a better estimate once they know the particulars of your case. The General District Court generally works through its docket efficiently, but delays can occur.

Will my driver’s license be suspended after a DUI arrest?

Yes, a DUI arrest in Virginia typically triggers an administrative suspension of your driver’s license by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. This suspension may begin shortly after your arrest and can last for a period set by law. You may have the right to challenge the suspension through an administrative hearing, but strict deadlines apply. A criminal conviction will also result in a court‑ordered license suspension. Your attorney can advise you on your options for obtaining a restricted license that allows you to drive to work, school, or medical appointments during the suspension period.

Can I get a restricted license after a DUI in Virginia?

In some cases, a person convicted of a DUI in Virginia may be eligible for a restricted driver’s license that permits driving to work, school, or certain other approved locations. Eligibility depends on factors such as your prior record, the nature of the offense, and whether you have completed any required alcohol‑safety programs. An ignition‑interlock device may be required as a condition of the restricted license. Your attorney can help you determine whether you qualify and can assist with the petition necessary to request the restricted privilege from the court or the DMV.

What should I bring to my DUI arraignment in Bedford County?

You should bring a government‑issued photo ID, any paperwork you received from the arresting officer or the magistrate, and contact information for your attorney. It is also helpful to bring proof of employment, community ties, or character references, as these may be relevant to any bail argument. Dress respectfully, as you will be appearing before a judge. If you have not yet hired an attorney, you should make arrangements to speak with one before the arraignment so you can be fully prepared.

How can an attorney help me at my DUI arraignment?

An attorney can enter your plea, argue for your release on personal recognizance or a reasonable bond, and ensure that your rights are not waived inadvertently. The attorney can also begin to challenge procedural issues immediately, such as whether the traffic stop was constitutional or whether the breath test was administered in compliance with Virginia law. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have extensive experience with DUI cases in Bedford County and are prepared to appear with you at your arraignment.

Is a DUI arraignment public in Bedford County?

Yes, court proceedings in Bedford County General District Court, including DUI arraignments, are generally open to the public unless a judge orders otherwise. Members of the public and the media may be present in the courtroom. While this can be intimidating, your attorney can help you focus on the legal issues and protect your privacy to the extent the law allows. You should avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney, as statements you make outside of court could be used against you.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor, he is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His Of Counsel include attorneys who bring decades of experience in criminal defense, including former law‑enforcement officers and prosecutors. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved over 4,739 documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.

The firm concentrates its practice on criminal defense, traffic matters, and DUI representation. From the arraignment through trial, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to protect their clients’ rights and pursue favorable resolutions. For a consultation about your DUI arraignment in Bedford County, call (888) 437-7747.

Related Practice Areas and Locations

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel serve clients in multiple Virginia counties. Learn more about traffic and DUI representation in nearby areas:

Last reviewed: June 2026

Learn more about Virginia DUI laws at the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court information, visit the Virginia General District Courts website.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.