In Hanover County, an Accessory After the Fact charge under 18 U.S.C. § 3 carries up to 15 years in federal prison. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Hanover County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result: 1 dismissed/not guilty. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-19 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Under federal law, an accessory after the fact is someone who, knowing that a federal offense has been committed, assists the offender to hinder or prevent their apprehension, trial, or punishment. The statute, 18 U.S.C. § 3, applies to any federal crime. A harboring fugitive defense lawyer Hanover County can challenge the government’s evidence of knowledge and intent. The post-crime assistance charge lawyer Hanover County must evaluate whether the assistance was truly intended to obstruct justice.
For more information, visit the Hanover County General District Court website.
- Step 1: Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used to prove knowledge.
- Step 2: Preserve all evidence, including communications and records, that may show your lack of knowledge or intent.
- Step 3: Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Hanover County immediately to begin building your defense.
- Step 4: Your attorney will file a notice of appearance and request discovery from the prosecution.
- Step 5: Evaluate whether a plea agreement or trial is the best strategy based on the evidence.
In Hanover County, an Accessory After the Fact charge under 18 U.S.C. § 3 carries up to 15 years in federal prison.
| 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 | Federal supervised release, loss of civil rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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
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+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our team includes former prosecutors and experienced trial attorneys.
1 documented result in Hanover County: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location is accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 301, and Route 33. We serve Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell. Search for an Accessory After the Fact lawyer near Hanover County or near Kings Dominion for immediate assistance.
What is an Accessory After the Fact charge in Hanover County?
Yes, it is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 3. It applies when someone knowingly assists a federal offender to avoid arrest, trial, or punishment.
Can an Accessory After the Fact charge be dismissed in Hanover County?
Yes, dismissal is possible if the government cannot prove you knew the person committed a federal crime. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Hanover County can challenge the evidence.
What is the difference between Accessory After the Fact and harboring a fugitive?
Accessory After the Fact covers any assistance to a federal offender. Harboring a fugitive specifically involves hiding or sheltering someone wanted by law enforcement.
How long does a federal Accessory After the Fact case take in Hanover County?
It depends. Federal cases typically take 6-18 months from indictment to resolution. Complex cases may take longer.
Do I need a lawyer for a post-crime assistance charge in Hanover County?
Yes. These charges carry up to 15 years in federal prison. A post-crime assistance charge lawyer Hanover County can protect your rights and build a defense.
What should I do if I am accused of being an accessory after the fact?
Do not speak to investigators without your attorney. Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Hanover County immediately to preserve evidence and plan your defense.