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In Fairfax 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 Virginia from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented results firm-wide. Contact us 24/7.
Understanding Accessory After the Fact in Virginia
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-18 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Under federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 3 defines an accessory after the fact as someone who, knowing a federal crime has been committed, assists the offender to hinder or prevent their apprehension, trial, or punishment. In Virginia, state law mirrors this concept under Va. Code § 18.2-18. This charge applies to actions like hiding a fugitive, destroying evidence, or providing false information to law enforcement. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia can help you understand the specific elements the prosecution must prove.
For post-crime assistance charges, the specific statute is 18 U.S.C. § 3 (federal) or Va. Code § 18.2-18 (state). This differs from the underlying crime itself, such as robbery or assault. A harboring fugitive defense lawyer Virginia focuses on the intent and knowledge elements of these statutes.
Official Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-18 (Accessory After the Fact) — official Virginia General Assembly
- Fairfax County Circuit Court — official .gov site
Insider Procedural Edge for Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, prosecutors often charge accessory after the fact in conjunction with the underlying felony. The key is proving you knew about the crime and acted with intent to hinder. Our team uses a case-specific approach to challenge the knowledge element.
- Step 1: Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia immediately to preserve evidence and avoid self-incrimination.
- Step 2: Your lawyer will request discovery to review the timeline and your knowledge of the crime.
- Step 3: File a motion to dismiss if the prosecution cannot prove you knew about the felony.
- Step 4: Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or diversion program.
- Step 5: Prepare for trial if no favorable plea is offered, focusing on lack of intent.
In Fairfax County, accessory after the fact carries up to 15 years in federal prison or up to 5 years under state law, plus fines up to $250,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accessory After the Fact (Federal) | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $250,000 | None directly | Federal supervised release, loss of federal benefits |
| Accessory After the Fact (State) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute). Firm-wide, we have 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper.
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
Case Results
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented results with 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Fairfax County, we have 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax Location is 2.5 miles from Fairfax County Circuit Court, accessible via I-66 and Route 29.
Near Me: Accessory After the Fact lawyer near Fairfax County.
Neighborhoods Served: Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church area.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
NAP: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be charged as an accessory after the fact if I didn’t know about the crime?
No. The prosecution must prove you knew a felony was committed. Without knowledge, the charge cannot stand.
What is the difference between accessory after the fact and harboring a fugitive?
It depends. Harboring a fugitive is a specific form of accessory after the fact. Both involve assisting someone who committed a crime, but harboring focuses on providing shelter or concealment.
How long do I have to report a crime to avoid accessory charges?
It depends. There is no specific deadline, but immediate reporting can show lack of intent to hinder. Delayed reporting may raise suspicion.
Can I be charged for helping a family member avoid arrest?
Yes. Virginia law does not exempt family members. Helping a relative hide from police can still lead to accessory after the fact charges.
What should I do if I am accused of being an accessory after the fact?
Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia immediately. Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present. Preserve any evidence that shows you lacked knowledge or intent.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.