In King William County, accessory after the fact is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 3, carrying up to 15 years in prison. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer King William County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you understand your rights. 24/7 consultation available.
Understanding Accessory After the Fact Charges
Under federal law, an accessory after the fact is someone who, knowing that a federal offense has been committed, assists the offender to hinder or prevent their apprehension, trial, or punishment. This is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 3. The charge applies when you help someone who has committed a federal crime, even if you did not participate in the original crime.
Last verified: 2026-04 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Resources
- 18 U.S.C. § 3 (Accessory After the Fact) — Official U.S. Code
- King William County General District Court — Official Website
Insider Procedural Edge
Federal cases in King William County are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division). The King William County General District Court handles initial appearances and detention hearings for federal defendants before transfer to federal court.
- Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer King William County immediately upon learning of an investigation or arrest.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your lawyer present.
- Preserve any evidence that may show you lacked knowledge of the underlying crime.
- Your lawyer will file a motion to suppress any statements made without counsel.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable resolution.
- Prepare for trial if a fair plea agreement cannot be reached.
In King William County, accessory after the fact under 18 U.S.C. § 3 carries up to 15 years in federal 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 (federal) | Supervised release up to 3 years; loss of federal benefits; immigration consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm has handled 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating our commitment to legal excellence. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the government builds its case.
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
Case Results
While no specific King William County accessory after the fact case results are available, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our federal criminal defense team has secured dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges in numerous federal cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Location Serving King William County
Our Richmond location serves clients at King William County courts (351 Courthouse Lane). We are accessible via Route 30, Route 360, and Route 33.
Looking for an Accessory After the Fact lawyer near King William County? We serve King William, West Point, and Aylett.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accessory After the Fact Charges
What is the difference between accessory after the fact and harboring a fugitive?
Yes, they are different. Accessory after the fact (18 U.S.C. § 3) involves assisting someone after a federal crime. Harboring a fugitive (18 U.S.C. § 1071) specifically involves hiding someone wanted on federal warrants. A harboring fugitive defense lawyer King William County can explain the distinction.
Can I be charged with accessory after the fact if I didn’t know about the original crime?
No. The government must prove you knew the person committed a federal offense. If you lacked knowledge, you have a strong defense. A post-crime assistance charge lawyer King William County can help build this defense.
What is the penalty for accessory after the fact in federal court?
It depends. Under 18 U.S.C. § 3, the maximum penalty is 15 years in federal prison, fines up to $250,000, and supervised release. The actual sentence depends on the underlying crime and federal sentencing guidelines.
How is a federal accessory case handled in King William County?
Initial appearances occur at King William County General District Court. The case then moves to U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Richmond Division). An Accessory After the Fact lawyer King William County must be prepared for federal court procedures.
What should I do if I am being investigated for accessory after the fact?
Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer King William County immediately. Do not speak to investigators without counsel. Preserve any evidence that may show you lacked criminal intent or knowledge of the underlying offense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.