In New Kent County, an accessory after the fact charge under 18 U.S.C. § 3 carries up to 15 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strategic defense for these complex federal allegations. Our team has 4,739+ firm-wide case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Contact us 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code)
Under federal law, an accessory after the fact is someone who, knowing that a federal crime has been committed, assists the offender to hinder or prevent their apprehension, trial, or punishment. This charge is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 3 and applies to actions taken after the underlying crime is complete. Unlike aiding and abetting, which involves participation before or during the crime, accessory after the fact focuses on post-crime assistance. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, understands the nuances of these federal charges and builds defenses around the specific elements the government must prove.
For New Kent County, the specific federal statute governing accessory after the fact is 18 U.S.C. § 3, which defines the offense as providing post-crime assistance to a known felon. This differs from state-level charges under Va. Code § 18.2-19, which covers similar conduct in Virginia courts. Federal charges carry significantly higher penalties and are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division).
Review the official federal statute at 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code). For federal court procedures in the Eastern District of Virginia, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
New Kent County federal cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division). The government must prove you knew the person committed a federal crime and that you intentionally helped them avoid detection. Federal investigators often build cases through surveillance, witness interviews, and financial records.
- Do not speak to investigators without counsel present.
- Preserve all evidence, including communications and financial records.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Review the indictment to identify the specific underlying crime alleged.
- Prepare a defense strategy focused on lack of knowledge or lack of intent.
- Attend all court appearances at the federal courthouse in Richmond.
In New Kent County, accessory after the fact under 18 U.S.C. § 3 carries up to 15 years in federal prison, fines, and supervised release.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accessory After the Fact (18 U.S.C. § 3) | Federal Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A | Supervised release, loss of federal benefits, firearm prohibition |
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 has achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’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
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, Route 249, and Route 60.
Accessory After the Fact lawyer near New Kent County.
Serving: New Kent, Providence Forge, Quinton.
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What is the difference between accessory after the fact and aiding and abetting?
Yes. Aiding and abetting involves participation before or during the crime. Accessory after the fact involves post-crime assistance to help the offender avoid detection or punishment.
Can I be charged as an accessory after the fact if I did not know about the crime?
No. The government must prove you knew the person committed a federal crime. Lack of knowledge is a complete defense to this charge.
What kind of actions count as post-crime assistance?
Harboring the fugitive, destroying evidence, providing false information to investigators, or helping the offender flee. A harboring fugitive defense lawyer New Kent County can explain specific defenses.
What is the penalty for accessory after the fact in federal court?
Up to 15 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and supervised release. A post-crime assistance charge lawyer New Kent County can evaluate your case.
How does the federal court process work in New Kent County?
Federal cases are prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division). The process includes indictment, arraignment, discovery, motions, and trial.
Last verified: 2026-04. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.