Accessory After the Fact Lawyer Bergen County — What Are Your Defenses?
Being charged as an accessory after the fact in Bergen County is a serious criminal offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3, punishable by significant prison time and fines. If you are accused of providing post-crime assistance to a fugitive, you need immediate legal help. An experienced Accessory After the Fact lawyer Bergen County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Law on Being an Accessory After the Fact
In New Jersey, the crime of being an accessory after the fact is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3. A person commits this offense if, with the purpose of hindering the apprehension, 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.
- Conceal or destroy evidence of the crime, or tamper with a witness, informant, document, or other source of information.
- Volunteer false information to a law enforcement officer.
The severity of the charge depends on the underlying crime. If the principal committed a crime of the first or second degree, being an accessory after the fact is a crime of the third degree. If the underlying crime was of the third degree, the accessory charge is a crime of the fourth degree.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Resources & Court Information
Understanding the formal charges and court procedures is critical. The official statute is available from the New Jersey Legislature: N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3. Cases are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Law Division, Criminal Part. For Bergen County, this is the Superior Court of New Jersey, Bergen Vicinage located at 10 Main Street in Hackensack.
Local Defense Strategy for Bergen County
Defending against an accessory charge requires a precise strategy. In Bergen County, prosecutors must prove you acted with the specific purpose of helping someone avoid the law. A common defense is lack of knowledge—you did not know the person had committed a crime. Another is lack of purpose—your assistance was not intended to hinder law enforcement. The specific defenses available to a harboring fugitive defense lawyer Bergen County will depend on the facts of your case.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Discuss every detail of the accusation with your attorney during a confidential consultation.
- Evidence Analysis: Your lawyer will scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence for weaknesses, including intent, knowledge, and your specific actions.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally or to dismiss charges if the state’s case is insufficient.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office for a reduction or dismissal of charges where possible.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, your lawyer will prepare a vigorous defense for trial, challenging the state’s proof on every element.
Potential Penalties for Accessory After the Fact in NJ
In Bergen County, an accessory after the fact charge can result in years of imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record, with penalties escalating based on the severity of the underlying crime.
| Underlying Crime Degree | Accessory Charge Degree | Incarceration | Fine | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st or 2nd Degree | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years in state prison | Up to $15,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, difficulty finding employment and housing, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
| 3rd Degree | 4th Degree Crime | Up to 18 months in prison | Up to $10,000 | Same as above, though may be viewed as slightly less severe. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bergen County Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of a post-crime assistance charge lawyer Bergen County faces and provide dedicated, strategic representation.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential and vary, our firm’s approach is to aggressively challenge the prosecution’s case from the start. We examine whether the state can prove you had the required purpose to hinder law enforcement, which is often the weakest part of their case. Our goal is to seek a dismissal or reduction of charges to avoid the severe penalties associated with a conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Bergen County Criminal Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County, including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, and surrounding communities. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, and Route 17.
Accessory after the fact lawyer near Bergen County Superior Court. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Accessory After the Fact Charges: Frequently Asked Questions
What does “accessory after the fact” mean in New Jersey?
It means you are accused of helping someone avoid arrest, prosecution, or punishment after they have committed a crime. This includes hiding them, giving them money or transportation, destroying evidence, or lying to police.
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 of hindering law enforcement. If you lacked knowledge that a crime occurred, you cannot have the required criminal intent. This is a common defense.
What is the difference between an accomplice and an accessory after the fact?
An accomplice helps plan or commit the crime itself. An accessory after the fact only gets involved after the crime is complete, by helping the offender avoid consequences. The charges and penalties are different.
What should I do if I’m questioned about being an accessory?
Politely decline to answer any questions and immediately request to speak with an attorney. Do not try to explain or talk your way out of it, as anything you say can be used against you. Call a lawyer first.
What are the best defenses to an accessory charge?
Defenses include lack of knowledge of the underlying crime, lack of intent to hinder law enforcement, duress (you were forced to help), or that your actions did not actually constitute assistance as defined by law.
Internal Resources
- New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Essex County
- Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Bergen County
- Our New Jersey Law Office Location
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.