An Accessory After the Fact charge in Augusta County falls under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 3), carrying up to 15 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 documented case results in Augusta County. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Augusta County can build a strong defense against these serious allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code)
Under 18 U.S.C. § 3, 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 is a distinct federal offense, not a lesser included charge. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Augusta County understands the specific intent requirements the government must prove.
Federal law defines this offense separately from the underlying crime. The prosecution must prove you knew the person committed a federal felony and that you took affirmative steps to help them avoid detection or arrest. A harboring fugitive defense lawyer Augusta County can challenge whether the government can prove this knowledge element.
- 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code) — Federal accessory after the fact statute
- Augusta County General District Court (official court website)
- Step 1: Initial Appearance — You will appear before a federal magistrate judge at the federal courthouse in Harrisonburg or Roanoke.
- Step 2: Detention Hearing — The court determines whether you pose a flight risk or danger to the community.
- Step 3: Grand Jury Indictment — A federal grand jury must return an indictment for the case to proceed.
- Step 4: Discovery and Motions — Your attorney reviews evidence and files motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Step 5: Trial or Plea Negotiation — Cases resolve through jury trial or negotiated disposition.
In Augusta County, an Accessory After the Fact conviction carries up to 15 years in federal prison under 18 U.S.C. § 3.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accessory After the Fact | Federal Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $250,000 | None specific | Federal supervised release, loss of federal benefits |
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. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. The firm provides full representation in federal criminal matters across Virginia.
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
13 total documented case results across all practice areas in Augusta County (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide: 4,739+ case results with 93%+ favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock Location serves clients at Augusta County courts (6 East Johnson Street, Staunton, VA 24401), accessible via I-81, I-64, Route 11, Route 250, and Route 340.
Accessory After the Fact lawyer near Augusta County — serving Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, Churchville.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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Yes, an Accessory After the Fact charge is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 3, carrying up to 15 years in federal prison.
No, the government must prove you knew the person committed a federal crime and that you intentionally helped them avoid detection.
It depends on the circumstances. Defenses include lack of knowledge, lack of affirmative assistance, or that the underlying crime was not a federal felony.
Yes, a federal case can be transferred to the Western District of Virginia where Augusta County cases are prosecuted.
No, the statute requires proof that you knew the person committed a federal felony, not just any crime.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.