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Accessory After the Fact Charge in Virginia? Your Defense Options
Facing an accessory after the fact charge in Virginia under 18 U.S.C. § 3? This federal offense carries up to 15 years in prison. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia from SRIS, P.C. can build your defense. We have 4,739+ documented results firm-wide.
What is Accessory After the Fact Under Federal Law?
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code)
Under 18 U.S.C. § 3, a person is an accessory after the fact if, knowing that an offense against the United States has been committed, they receive, relieve, comfort, or assist the offender to hinder or prevent their apprehension, trial, or punishment. This charge is distinct from the principal crime and requires proof that you knew of the felony and acted with the intent to help the offender avoid justice. A conviction can result in up to 15 years in federal prison, depending on the underlying offense. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled numerous federal criminal cases across Virginia.
For the specific sub-topic of harboring a fugitive, the relevant statute is 18 U.S.C. § 1071, which prohibits harboring or concealing a person for whom a federal arrest warrant is outstanding. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia must understand the nuances between these related charges.
Key Legal Resources
- 18 U.S.C. § 3 (Accessory After the Fact) – Official U.S. Code
- U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia – Official Court Website
Insider Procedural Edge: Federal Defense in Virginia
In federal court, prosecutors must prove you knew of the felony and acted to hinder the investigation. A strong defense often focuses on lack of knowledge or lack of intent.
- Step 1: Secure Federal Counsel Immediately. Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia before speaking to law enforcement.
- Step 2: Preserve Evidence. Do not destroy or alter any communications or documents related to the case.
- Step 3: Assert Your Right to Silence. Do not provide statements to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Step 4: Challenge the Knowledge Element. Your lawyer will investigate whether you actually knew a federal crime had been committed.
- Step 5: Negotiate or Prepare for Trial. Your attorney will evaluate plea options or build a defense for trial in the U.S. District Court.
In Virginia federal courts, accessory after the fact carries a maximum penalty of 15 years imprisonment, fines, and supervised release.
| 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 | None directly, but federal conviction can affect professional licenses | Supervised release, loss of federal benefits, potential deportation for non-citizens |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Federal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute). Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper. Firm-wide, we have 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We provide strong defense for federal charges across Virginia.
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. Our team has secured dismissals, reductions, and not-guilty verdicts in federal criminal cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax Location
Our Fairfax location is approximately 15 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Alexandria Division), accessible via I-495 and I-395.
Looking for an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia near Fairfax? We serve clients throughout Northern Virginia.
Neighborhoods Served: Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Centreville, Chantilly, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Manassas, Woodbridge, Leesburg, Ashburn, Warrenton, Stafford, Fredericksburg.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accessory After the Fact Charges
Can I be charged as an accessory after the fact if I didn’t know a crime was committed?
No. The government must prove you had actual knowledge that a federal felony had been committed. Lack of knowledge is a complete defense.
What is the difference between accessory after the fact and harboring a fugitive?
Accessory after the fact (18 U.S.C. § 3) covers any assistance to hinder apprehension. Harboring a fugitive (18 U.S.C. § 1071) specifically involves concealing a person with a federal warrant.
How long do federal prosecutors have to charge me with accessory after the fact?
The general federal statute of limitations is 5 years from the date of the offense. However, some underlying crimes have longer statutes, which can extend the time for an accessory charge.
What should I do if I am being investigated for accessory after the fact?
It depends. You should immediately contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia and assert your right to remain silent. Do not speak to investigators without legal counsel.
Can a conviction for accessory after the fact be expunged in Virginia?
No. Federal convictions generally cannot be expunged. However, a pardon or a certificate of rehabilitation may be available in limited circumstances.
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.