In Fairfax County, an accessory after the fact charge under 18 U.S.C. § 3 involves helping someone avoid arrest after a federal crime. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide case results. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Fairfax County can build your defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code)
Under 18 U.S.C. § 3, a person becomes an accessory after the fact when they knowingly help someone who committed a federal felony avoid arrest, prosecution, or punishment. This includes hiding the person, destroying evidence, or providing false information to investigators. The charge applies only after the underlying felony is complete. Unlike harboring a fugitive, which requires active concealment, accessory after the fact covers a broader range of assistance. The government must prove you knew about the felony and acted with the intent to hinder justice. A harboring fugitive defense lawyer Fairfax County understands these distinctions.
Federal law defines accessory after the fact as a separate offense from the underlying crime. The maximum penalty is half the maximum sentence for the original felony, up to 15 years. This charge often arises in drug trafficking, fraud, and violent crime cases. A post-crime assistance charge lawyer Fairfax County can evaluate the evidence against you.
18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code) — Federal accessory after the fact statute.
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia — Federal court handling Fairfax County cases.
Fairfax County federal cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. This office has a high conviction rate. The government must prove you knew the person committed a felony. Proximity to the crime scene alone is not enough. The court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road handles initial appearances and detention hearings.
- Do not speak to investigators without a lawyer present.
- Preserve all evidence, including phone records and messages.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately.
- Attend all court hearings at the federal courthouse.
- Follow your lawyer’s advice on whether to testify.
- Consider a plea agreement if the evidence is strong.
In Fairfax County, accessory after the fact carries up to 15 years in federal prison, depending on the underlying felony.
| 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 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 handles federal criminal defense across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
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: 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. These include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and reduced charges in federal cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is near the Fairfax County courts, accessible via I-66 and the Capital Beltway.
Accessory After the Fact lawyer near Fairfax County.
Serving Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
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What is the difference between accessory after the fact and harboring a fugitive?
Yes. Accessory after the fact covers any assistance after a federal felony. Harboring a fugitive specifically involves hiding someone from law enforcement.
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. Lack of knowledge is a complete defense.
What is the penalty for accessory after the fact in federal court?
It depends. The maximum sentence is half the maximum for the underlying felony, up to 15 years. Fines can reach $250,000.
Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for accessory after the fact?
Yes. Federal investigations are serious. A lawyer can protect your rights and negotiate with prosecutors before charges are filed.
Can accessory after the fact charges be reduced or dismissed?
It depends. If the government cannot prove you knew about the felony, or if the underlying charge is dropped, the accessory charge may be dismissed.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.