An Accessory After the Fact charge in Falls Church falls under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 3), carrying up to 15 years in prison depending on the underlying offense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented results in Falls Church. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Falls Church can build a strong defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Falls Church General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code)
Under 18 U.S.C. § 3, a person is guilty of being an accessory after the fact if, knowing that an offense has been committed, they assist the offender to hinder or prevent their apprehension, trial, or punishment. This federal charge applies to anyone who provides aid such as hiding the offender, destroying evidence, or providing false information to law enforcement. The maximum penalty is up to 15 years for felonies, or half the maximum for the underlying offense. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Falls Church understands these serious stakes.
Review the official statute at 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code). For federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
- Step 1: Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Step 2: Preserve all evidence. Do not destroy or alter any documents, messages, or records that may be relevant.
- Step 3: Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Falls Church immediately to assert your Fifth Amendment rights.
- Step 4: Your attorney will review the indictment to identify weaknesses in the government’s case, such as lack of knowledge or intent.
- Step 5: File pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if the government cannot prove the elements.
- Step 6: Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable resolution, such as a reduction or dismissal.
In Falls Church, an Accessory After the Fact charge carries a maximum of 15 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and supervised release.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accessory After the Fact (Felony) | Federal Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Supervised release up to 3 years; loss of federal benefits; deportation for non-citizens |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep legal experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement officers who understand how federal cases are built and defended.
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
In Falls Church, we have 6 documented results: 5 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is approximately 3 miles from Falls Church courts, accessible via Route 7 (Broad Street/Leesburg Pike) and I-495.
Accessory After the Fact lawyer near Falls Church — serving Falls Church, Arlington, and surrounding areas.
Neighborhoods served: Falls Church.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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By appointment only.
Yes, an accessory after the fact charge is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 3.
Is accessory after the fact a felony in Falls Church? Yes, it is a federal felony under 18 U.S.C. § 3. The maximum penalty is up to 15 years in federal prison, a fine up to $250,000, and supervised release. Cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
No, the government must prove you knew about the underlying felony and acted with intent to hinder prosecution.
Can I be charged if I did not know about the crime? No, the government must prove you knew about the underlying felony and acted with intent to hinder prosecution. If you had no knowledge, you cannot be convicted. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Falls Church can challenge the knowledge element.
It depends on the underlying offense. The maximum is 15 years for felonies, or half the maximum for the underlying crime.
What is the maximum sentence for accessory after the fact? It depends on the underlying offense. The maximum is 15 years for felonies, or half the maximum for the underlying crime. Fines can reach $250,000. Sentencing follows the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Yes, a strong defense can lead to dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
Can an accessory after the fact charge be dismissed? Yes, a strong defense can lead to dismissal, reduction, or acquittal. Common defenses include lack of knowledge, lack of intent to hinder, or insufficient evidence. Our firm has 6 documented results in Falls Church, with 5 dismissals or not guilty verdicts.
Yes, you should not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present.
Should I talk to law enforcement if I am a suspect? No, you should not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Invoke your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Falls Church immediately to protect your rights and build a defense.
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.