Facing federal accessory after the fact charges in Chesterfield County? Under 18 U.S.C. § 3, this offense carries up to 15 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide results. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Chesterfield County can build your defense. Call (888) 437-7747 24/7.
Under federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 3 defines accessory after the fact as someone who, knowing a federal crime has been committed, assists the offender to hinder their arrest, trial, or punishment. This includes harboring, concealing, or providing aid. The punishment is up to half the maximum sentence for the underlying offense, capped at 15 years. A harboring fugitive defense lawyer Chesterfield County understands these serious stakes.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 3 (official U.S. Code)
Review the official statute at 18 U.S.C. § 3 (Cornell LII). For federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
In Chesterfield County, federal accessory cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. The government must prove you knew about the underlying crime and acted with intent to hinder prosecution. A post-crime assistance charge lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the knowledge element.
- Do not speak to investigators without counsel present.
- Preserve all evidence of your actions and communications.
- Document any coercion or threats from the principal.
- Identify witnesses who can attest to your lack of knowledge.
- File a motion to sever your case from the principal’s trial.
- Negotiate for a reduced charge or dismissal based on lack of intent.
In Chesterfield County, federal accessory after the fact carries up to 15 years in prison, 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 | N/A | Supervised release, loss of federal benefits |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our attorneys include former federal prosecutors and seasoned criminal defense specialists. We provide case-specific strategies for federal charges in Chesterfield County.
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
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. For Chesterfield County federal matters, our team has secured dismissals and favorable plea agreements. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location is approximately 20 minutes from Chesterfield County courts, accessible via I-95 and Route 288. Serving Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Accessory after the fact lawyer near Chesterfield County — available 24/7.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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What is accessory after the fact under federal law?
Yes. 18 U.S.C. § 3 makes it a crime to knowingly assist a federal offender to hinder their arrest or prosecution. Punishment is up to half the underlying offense’s maximum sentence, capped at 15 years.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know about the crime?
No. The government must prove you had actual knowledge of the underlying federal crime. Lack of knowledge is a complete defense to accessory after the fact charges.
What is the difference between accessory and harboring a fugitive?
Harboring is a specific form of accessory after the fact. Both require knowledge of the crime and intent to hinder prosecution. Harboring specifically involves concealing the fugitive from law enforcement.
How long do federal accessory cases take in Chesterfield County?
It depends. Federal cases in EDVA typically resolve within 6-18 months. Complex cases with multiple defendants may take longer. The Speedy Trial Act requires trial within 70 days of indictment.
What defenses are available for accessory after the fact?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge of the underlying crime, lack of intent to hinder prosecution, duress or coercion, and withdrawal from the conspiracy before the assistance occurred.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.