Accessory After The Fact Lawyer Charles City Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Being charged as an accessory after the fact in Charles City, Virginia, is a serious criminal offense under Va. Code § 18.2-19. This charge means you are accused of helping someone avoid arrest or punishment after they committed a felony. A conviction can lead to felony-level penalties. As your criminal attorney, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Law on Being an Accessory After The Fact
In Virginia, the crime of accessory after the fact is defined by statute. You can be charged if, knowing that a felony has been committed, you harbor, conceal, or aid the principal offender to help them escape arrest, trial, or punishment. The key element is your knowledge of the underlying felony and your intent to assist the offender after the crime is complete.
Last verified: April 2026 | Charles City County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the law is critical. For the official Virginia statute, review Va. Code § 18.2-19 (official Virginia General Assembly site). For local court procedures, visit the Charles City County Circuit Court website.
The Charles City Court Process for Accessory Charges
An accessory after the fact charge in Charles City is typically prosecuted in the Circuit Court, as it is classified as a felony. The process begins with an indictment from a grand jury. Prosecutors must prove you had knowledge of the felony and took specific actions to aid the principal. A strong defense often challenges the proof of this knowledge or intent.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your defense lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on lack of probable cause.
- Discovery: The prosecution must share all evidence against you, which your attorney will analyze for weaknesses.
- Plea Negotiations: Your attorney will engage with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges.
- Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial where the burden is on the state to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines and arguments from your defense.
Potential Penalties for Accessory After The Fact in Virginia
In Charles City, being convicted as an accessory after the fact is punished as a Class 6 felony, which carries severe consequences including state prison time.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accessory After The Fact (Va. Code § 18.2-19) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty securing employment and housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that an accessory charge can upend your life, and we build defenses focused on the specific facts of your situation.
Building Your Defense Strategy
Every accessory case hinges on intent and knowledge. A skilled defense lawyer will investigate whether you truly knew a felony was committed and whether your actions were specifically intended to help the offender evade justice. Common defenses include lack of knowledge, absence of intent, or mistaken identity. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every legal avenue is explored.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Charles City County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Charles City County, VA
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
Available 24/7 for phone consultations. Meetings by appointment only.
Our team is familiar with the Charles City County Circuit Court and the local prosecutors. We serve clients throughout the area, including neighborhoods near the courthouse and along the Route 5 corridor. If you need a criminal charges defense lawyer near Charles City, we are accessible and ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “accessory after the fact” mean in Virginia?
It means you are accused of helping someone you know committed a felony to avoid arrest or punishment after the crime was over. This is different from being an accomplice during the crime.
Is accessory after the fact a felony in VA?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-19, it is classified as a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1-5 years in prison or up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Can I go to jail even if I didn’t commit the main crime?
Yes. The charge is based on your actions after the felony. A conviction carries the same felony-level penalties, including potential prison time, as the person who committed the original crime could face for a Class 6 felony.
What are common defenses to this charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include proving you lacked knowledge that a felony was committed, you did not intend to help the offender escape justice, or you were acting under duress. A criminal court lawyer can identify the best strategy for your case.
Should I talk to the police if I’m suspected?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say can be used to establish the “knowledge” element of the charge. Politely decline to answer questions and request a lawyer immediately.
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Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.