Accessory After The Fact Lawyer in Buckingham, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
Being charged as an accessory after the fact in Buckingham County is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 3, punishable by up to half the maximum sentence of the principal crime. If you are accused of helping someone avoid arrest or prosecution after a crime, you need an experienced criminal attorney immediately. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western/Eastern District of Virginia (serving Buckingham) | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Statute for Accessory After The Fact Charges
In Virginia, the charge of accessory after the fact is governed by federal law, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 3. This statute makes it a crime to assist someone you know has committed a federal offense, with the intent to help them avoid arrest, trial, or punishment. The key element is knowledge; the prosecution must prove you knew the person committed a crime against the United States. The penalty is severe, with a potential prison sentence of up to half the maximum term for the underlying felony, or a fine, or both. This charge is distinct from being an accomplice or a co-conspirator, as it involves actions taken after the crime is complete.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal accessory statute, visit the U.S. Code at 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code). For local federal court procedures and rules in the districts covering Buckingham County, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Local Federal Court Process for an Accessory Charge
Federal accessory after the fact cases in Buckingham are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and heard in U.S. District Court. The process is markedly different from state court. Your first appearance will be for an initial hearing and arraignment. The Speedy Trial Act requires the government to bring an indictment within 30 days of arrest and start trial within 70 days of indictment, though complex motions can extend this timeline. A skilled criminal court lawyer is essential to handle pre-trial motions, challenge the government’s evidence of your knowledge and intent, and negotiate with federal prosecutors.
- Secure immediate legal representation from a firm experienced in federal criminal defense.
- Your attorney will review the indictment and all discovery evidence provided by the U.S. Attorney.
- File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the legal sufficiency of the charges.
- Engage in plea negotiations, if appropriate, to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges.
- Prepare for trial, focusing on disputing the government’s proof of your knowledge and intent.
- If convicted, advocate for the most favorable sentence under the federal guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Accessory After The Fact
In Buckingham, a federal conviction for accessory after the fact carries a prison sentence of up to half the maximum penalty for the underlying felony, plus potential fines and supervised release.
| Underlying Felony | Maximum Sentence for Principal | Maximum Sentence for Accessory | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A Felony (e.g., Murder, Drug Kingpin) | Life / Death Penalty | Up to 15 years | Heavy fines, supervised release, permanent felony record |
| Class B Felony (e.g., Armed Robbery) | 25+ years | Up to 12.5 years | Substantial fines, supervised release, loss of civil rights |
| Class C Felony (e.g., Fraud) | 10-25 years | Up to 12.5 years | Fines, supervised release, collateral consequences |
| Class D Felony | 5-10 years | Up to 5 years | Fines, supervised release |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Criminal Charges Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that an accessory charge can stem from loyalty or fear, and we build defenses that address the full context of your actions. Our team is prepared to handle the rigorous demands of federal court.
Case Results in Federal Defense
Our firm’s approach to federal criminal charges defense has secured favorable outcomes for clients across jurisdictions. While results are always case-specific, our strategic focus on the intent element in accessory cases has led to charge reductions and dismissals. For instance, in past federal matters, we have successfully argued that clients lacked the requisite knowledge of the principal’s crime, skilled the government to drop accessory charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Accessory After The Fact Lawyer Near Buckingham
Our Richmond location serves clients in Buckingham County and is accessible for case consultations. We represent individuals throughout central Virginia facing federal accusations. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 | Local: (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “accessory after the fact” mean in Virginia?
It is a federal crime. It means you knowingly helped someone avoid arrest or punishment after they committed a federal offense. You did not plan or participate in the original crime.
Can I go to jail for being an accessory after the fact?
Yes. Under 18 U.S.C. § 3, you can face up to half the prison sentence of the main crime. For a serious underlying felony, this can mean many years in federal prison.
What is the main defense to an accessory charge?
It depends, but a common defense is lack of knowledge. A skilled criminal attorney will fight to show you did not know the person had committed a crime, or that your assistance was not intended to help them escape justice. Without proof of this specific intent, the government’s case fails.
Is an accessory charge a felony?
Yes. Because it is tied to another federal felony, a conviction for accessory after the fact is itself a felony. This results in a permanent criminal record with long-term consequences.
Why do I need a specific federal defense lawyer?
Federal court has unique rules, procedures, and sentencing guidelines. A defense lawyer with federal experience, like Matthew Greene, understands how to handle this system, negotiate with U.S. Attorneys, and present arguments that resonate with federal judges, which is crucial for your criminal charges defense.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing federal charges, it is important to understand all your options. For related defense services in Buckingham, consider our Buckingham traffic lawyer or our Buckingham computer sex crimes lawyer. For a broader view of our federal practice, visit our Virginia federal criminal lawyer hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your accessory after the fact case.