An Accessory After the Fact charge in Dinwiddie County involves helping someone avoid arrest after a felony. Under Va. Code § 18.2-19, this is a Class 6 felony carrying 1-5 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Dinwiddie County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-19 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Under Virginia law, an accessory after the fact is someone who, knowing a felony has been committed, helps the felon avoid arrest, trial, conviction, or punishment. This includes hiding the person, destroying evidence, or providing false information to law enforcement. The charge applies only after the felony is complete — not during the crime itself. The prosecution must prove you knew about the felony and acted with the intent to help the felon escape justice. This is a separate crime from the original felony, meaning you can be charged even if the main offender is not convicted.
Review the official statute at Va. Code § 18.2-19 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Dinwiddie County General District Court website.
In Dinwiddie County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you knew the person committed a felony before you helped them. The court at Dinwiddie Courthouse handles the preliminary hearing for this Class 6 felony. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Dinwiddie County prosecutes these cases.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your lawyer present. Invoke your right to remain silent.
- Request a lawyer immediately. Do not answer any questions about your knowledge of the felony.
- Preserve any evidence that shows you did not know about the felony or did not intend to help.
- File a motion to suppress any statements made without a knowing waiver of your Miranda rights.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal based on lack of intent.
- Prepare for preliminary hearing in General District Court or direct indictment in Circuit Court.
In Dinwiddie County, Accessory After the Fact carries a penalty of 1-5 years in prison as a Class 6 felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accessory After the Fact (Felony) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None specific | Permanent criminal record; loss of voting rights; firearm prohibition; employment barriers |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, also oversees all criminal defense matters. Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, and Matthew Greene, with 30+ years of experience, contribute to the firm’s criminal defense practice.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Dinwiddie County: 2 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, the firm has 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Dinwiddie County courts (Dinwiddie Courthouse), accessible via I-85, Route 1, Route 460, and Route 226. We serve Dinwiddie, McKenney, and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
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What is the penalty for Accessory After the Fact in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
Yes, it is a Class 6 felony carrying 1-5 years in prison and up to a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-19.
Can Accessory After the Fact charges be dismissed in Dinwiddie County?
Yes, if the prosecution cannot prove you knew the person committed a felony before you helped them, the charge may be dismissed.
Do I need a lawyer for an Accessory After the Fact charge in Dinwiddie County?
Yes, a Class 6 felony conviction carries 1-5 years in prison and creates a permanent criminal record. Legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between Accessory After the Fact and harboring a fugitive in Dinwiddie County?
Accessory After the Fact applies to helping any felon avoid arrest. Harboring a fugitive specifically involves hiding a wanted person from law enforcement.
How does bail work for an Accessory After the Fact charge in Dinwiddie County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Dinwiddie County General District Court.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.