Aiding and Abetting Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defenses?
Aiding and abetting in New Kent County is prosecuted as a principal offense under Virginia law, meaning you can face the same penalties as the main actor. An aiding and abetting lawyer New Kent County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s proof of your intent and assistance.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, the legal concept of “aiding and abetting” is not a separate statute but a theory of liability under the common law and Va. Code § 18.2-18. This means that anyone who assists, encourages, or supports the commission of a crime can be charged and punished as if they were the principal offender. The prosecution must prove you shared the criminal intent of the main actor and performed some act to help the crime happen. This makes having a skilled aiding and abetting lawyer New Kent County critical to contest these elements.
For a charge of being an accessory charge defense lawyer New Kent County clients need, the focus is on your knowledge and actions before or during the crime. Defenses often center on lack of intent, withdrawal from the criminal plan, or that your actions did not actually aid the crime.
Virginia Law on Aiding and Abetting
The foundation for aiding and abetting charges in Virginia is found in Va. Code § 18.2-18, which states that principals in the second degree (aiders and abettors) are punishable as principals in the first degree. Case law further clarifies that mere presence at a crime scene is not enough; there must be evidence of incitement, encouragement, or assistance.
- Initial Consultation: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or charge. We will review the details of the allegation against you.
- Evidence Review: We obtain all discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney to analyze the evidence of your alleged assistance and intent.
- Defense Strategy: We build a defense, which may include arguing lack of intent, mistaken identity, or that you withdrew from any criminal plan.
- Court Appearances: We represent you at all hearings in New Kent County General District Court or Circuit Court, advocating for reduced charges or dismissal.
- Trial or Resolution: We either take your case to trial to fight the charges or negotiate the best possible plea agreement if it serves your interests.
Potential Penalties for Aiding Criminal Activity
In New Kent County, the penalty for aiding and abetting is identical to the penalty for the underlying crime itself, which can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
| Underlying Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Theft under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment |
| Malicious Wounding | Class 3 Felony | 5 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Loss of firearm rights, violent felony record |
| Drug Distribution | Varies by schedule/amount | 1 year to Life* | Varies | Mandatory minimums, driver’s license suspension |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in New Kent County Courts
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 understand the local procedures at the New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle) and have a record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges.
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
Our team, including Mr. Sris who brings additional strategic insight from his background as a former prosecutor, has documented case results in the region. We focus on the specific facts of your case to challenge the prosecution’s theory that you were aiding criminal activity lawyer New Kent County residents trust to protect their rights.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Kent County Aiding and Abetting Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County, including the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33.
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
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
FAQs: Aiding and Abetting Charges in Virginia
What does “aiding and abetting” mean in Virginia?
It means helping or encouraging someone to commit a crime. Under Va. Code § 18.2-18, you can be charged and punished as if you committed the crime yourself, even if you were not the main actor.
Can I be charged if I was just present during a crime?
No. Mere presence is not enough for an aiding and abetting charge. The prosecution must prove you shared the criminal intent and performed some act of assistance, encouragement, or incitement.
What is the difference between an accessory and aiding and abetting?
In Virginia, an “accessory before the fact” (helps before the crime) and a “principal in the second degree” (aids and abets during the crime) are both punishable as principals. The key difference is timing, but the penalties are generally the same. An aiding and abetting lawyer New Kent County can analyze the specifics of your timing and involvement.
What are common defenses to an aiding and abetting charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit the crime, withdrawal from the criminal plan before it occurred, mistaken identity, or that your actions did not actually assist in the crime’s commission.
Where are aiding and abetting cases heard in New Kent County?
Misdemeanor charges are heard in New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. Felony charges begin with a preliminary hearing in General District Court and, if certified, proceed to a jury trial in New Kent County Circuit Court.
For more information on Virginia criminal law, you can review the official Virginia Code or visit the New Kent County Courts website.
Internal Resources: If you are facing other charges, learn about our services as a DUI lawyer in New Kent County or explore our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. The information on this page is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your situation.