Burlington County Accessory After the Fact Lawyer — What Are Your Defenses?
Being charged as an accessory after the fact in Burlington County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3, where you are accused of helping someone avoid arrest or prosecution for a crime. This charge can lead to significant penalties based on the underlying crime.
Understanding Accessory After the Fact Charges in New Jersey
The crime of being an accessory after the fact is defined under New Jersey Statute N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3. A person is guilty of this offense if, with purpose to hinder the detention, apprehension, investigation, prosecution, conviction, or punishment of another for a crime, they:
- Harbor or conceal the other person.
- Provide or aid in providing a weapon, transportation, disguise, or other means of avoiding discovery or apprehension.
- Suppress, by way of concealment or destruction, any evidence of the crime.
- Warn the other person of impending discovery or apprehension.
- Volunteer false information to a law enforcement officer.
Last verified: April 2026 | Burlington County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature.
The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with experience on both sides of the courtroom, understands how these charges are constructed and how to challenge them effectively.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the New Jersey Statutes Title 2C (N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3). For local court procedures, visit the Burlington Vicinage of the New Jersey Courts website.
The Local Defense Strategy in Burlington County
Prosecutors in Burlington County Superior Court take allegations of obstructing justice seriously. A common local procedural fact is that charges often arise from family members or friends providing temporary shelter or transportation without full knowledge of the legal consequences. An effective Accessory After the Fact lawyer Burlington County must immediately investigate whether you had the required “purpose” to hinder law enforcement, which is a key element the state must prove.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not discuss the circumstances with anyone except your attorney. Invoke your right to remain silent.
- Case Assessment: Your lawyer will review all evidence, including communications and witness statements, to determine the strength of the state’s case regarding your intent and actions.
- Investigate Defenses: We will explore defenses such as lack of knowledge of the underlying crime, absence of intent to hinder, duress, or that the assistance provided was minimal and incidental.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained improperly or to sever your trial from the principal defendant if it is prejudicial.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, we will pursue either a favorable plea agreement to a lesser charge or take your case to trial to argue reasonable doubt before a jury.
Potential Penalties for Accessory After the Fact in NJ
In Burlington County, an accessory after the fact conviction carries penalties that are one degree lower than the most serious crime the principal offender committed, but it can still result in years of incarceration.
| Underlying Crime Level | Accessory Charge Level | Incarceration | Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crime of the 1st Degree | Crime of the 2nd Degree | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 |
| Crime of the 2nd Degree | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 |
| Crime of the 3rd Degree | Crime of the 4th Degree | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 |
| Crime of the 4th Degree | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Additional consequences include a permanent criminal record, which affects employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. operates on the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders.” Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes by meticulously preparing each case and challenging the prosecution’s evidence. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of New Jersey’s justice system and a commitment to aggressive, client-centered representation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While results are always case-specific, our systematic approach to defense—focusing on intent, knowledge, and procedural rights—has consistently achieved reductions and dismissals for clients facing serious charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Burlington County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our firm is positioned to defend clients throughout Burlington County, including those near the Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly. We serve communities across the county, from Moorestown and Medford to Willingboro and Pemberton. If you need a Accessory After the Fact lawyer Burlington County or a harboring fugitive defense lawyer Burlington County, we are accessible and ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “accessory after the fact” mean in New Jersey?
It means you are accused of helping someone avoid arrest or punishment after they have committed a crime. This includes hiding them, giving them a ride, destroying evidence, or lying to police with the specific purpose of hindering law enforcement.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know a crime was committed?
No. A key element the state must prove is that you acted with the “purpose” to hinder law enforcement. If you lacked knowledge of the underlying crime, it is a strong defense. A post-crime assistance charge lawyer Burlington County would focus on this lack of intent.
What are the defenses to an accessory charge?
It depends. Common defenses include lack of intent to hinder, duress (you were forced to help), mistaken identity, or that your actions were too minor to constitute a crime. Each case requires a detailed review of the facts and evidence.
Is being an accessory the same as being a co-conspirator?
No. A co-conspirator plans or participates in the crime itself. An accessory after the fact only becomes involved after the crime is complete, with the goal of helping the offender escape consequences.
Should I talk to the police if they think I’m an accessory?
No. You should politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney. Anything you say can be used to establish the “purpose” element against you. Contact a lawyer first.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also provides defense for Felony Charges and Obstruction of Justice in New Jersey.
Other Locations: We also defend clients in neighboring areas. Visit our page for Accessory After the Fact charges in Camden County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential consultation.
New Jersey law governs this practice area.
Burlington County cases are handled by our New Jersey accessory after the fact practice, where the whole process is set out.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Accessory after the Fact Attorney Bergen County, NJ · Accessory after the Fact Attorney Hudson County, NJ · Accessory after the Fact Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.