In Prince George County, federal accessory after the fact charges under 18 U.S.C. § 3 carry up to 15 years in prison. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Prince George County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm has 4,739+ firm-wide case results. Consultation by appointment.
Understanding Accessory After the Fact Charges Under Federal Law
Under 18 U.S.C. § 3, a person commits accessory after the fact if they knowingly assist someone who has committed a federal felony to avoid arrest, trial, conviction, or punishment. This includes hiding the person, destroying evidence, or providing false information to investigators. The charge applies only after the underlying felony has been completed. A harboring fugitive defense lawyer Prince George County understands the specific intent requirement — the government must prove you knew the person committed a felony and acted with the purpose of helping them escape justice. A post-crime assistance charge lawyer Prince George County can challenge whether the government has sufficient evidence of knowledge and intent.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code)
For more information on federal criminal statutes, visit the 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code). For the federal court handling Prince George County cases, see the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Preserve all evidence that may show you lacked knowledge of the underlying felony.
- Contact an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights.
- Your attorney will review the indictment and challenge any insufficient evidence of intent.
- Prepare for potential pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with prosecutors or prepare for trial if necessary.
In Prince George County, accessory after the fact 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 | Federal Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Federal supervised release, loss of federal benefits, firearm prohibition |
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 tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and reduced charges in federal criminal cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Prince George County courts (6601 Courts Drive). The office is accessible via I-295, Route 10, Route 36, and Route 156. We serve Prince George, Hopewell area, and surrounding communities.
Accessory After the Fact lawyer near Prince George County. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
What is the penalty for accessory after the fact in Prince George County?
Yes, under 18 U.S.C. § 3, accessory after the fact carries up to 15 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000. Sentencing depends on the underlying felony and federal sentencing guidelines.
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 felony and acted with the intent to help them avoid justice. Lack of knowledge is a complete defense.
What is the difference between accessory after the fact and harboring a fugitive?
Accessory after the fact under 18 U.S.C. § 3 covers any assistance to a felon, including hiding them, destroying evidence, or lying to investigators. Harboring a fugitive is a specific form of accessory after the fact.
How does the federal court system handle accessory after the fact cases in Prince George County?
Cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Initial appearances occur at the federal courthouse in Richmond. Cases may be assigned to a district judge in Richmond or Norfolk.
Do I need a lawyer for an accessory after the fact charge?
Yes. Federal charges carry serious penalties including lengthy prison sentences. An experienced federal criminal defense lawyer can challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights throughout the process.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.