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Accessory After the Fact Lawyer Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
In Virginia, an accessory after the fact faces up to 5 years in prison under Va. Code § 18.2-19. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented results firm-wide. An Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia can build a strong defense against post-crime assistance charges.
Virginia Accessory After the Fact Statute
Under Virginia law, an accessory after the fact is someone who, knowing a felony has been committed, helps the felon avoid arrest, trial, or punishment. This is defined in Va. Code § 18.2-19. The charge is a Class 5 felony, carrying 1–10 years in prison (or up to 12 months and a $2,500 fine at the jury’s discretion). A skilled Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia from SRIS, P.C. can challenge the evidence of knowledge or intent.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Resources
Insider Procedural Edge for Accessory After the Fact Cases
In Fairfax County, prosecutors often rely on witness statements to prove you knew about the felony. A strong defense challenges the timing of your knowledge.
- Step 1: Do not speak to police without your lawyer. Anything you say can be used to prove knowledge.
- Step 2: Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia immediately to preserve evidence of your lack of intent.
- Step 3: Your lawyer will file a motion to suppress any statements obtained without Miranda warnings.
- Step 4: Your lawyer will investigate whether the principal felon was actually guilty — if not, your charge may be dismissed.
- Step 5: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal based on weak evidence of knowledge.
In Fairfax County, accessory after the fact carries up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accessory After the Fact (Felony) | Class 5 Felony | 1–10 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition |
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, the firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute). The firm has 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper.
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
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented results with 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Fairfax County, SRIS has 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax Location is 2.5 miles from the Fairfax County Courthouse, accessible via I-66 and Route 123.
Looking for an Accessory After the Fact lawyer near Fairfax? We serve Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Centreville, Chantilly, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Manassas, Woodbridge, Leesburg, Ashburn, Warrenton, Stafford, Fredericksburg.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be charged as an accessory after the fact if I didn’t know a crime was committed?
No. The prosecution must prove you knew a felony had been committed. Without proof of knowledge, the charge cannot stand.
What is the difference between accessory after the fact and harboring a fugitive?
It depends. Harboring a fugitive typically involves physically hiding someone from law enforcement. Accessory after the fact is broader — it includes any help after a felony, like destroying evidence or providing transportation.
Can I be charged if the principal felon was acquitted?
Yes. Virginia law allows accessory charges even if the principal is not convicted. However, this creates a strong defense — you can argue the principal was not guilty, so no felony occurred.
What should I do if I am being investigated for accessory after the fact?
Contact an Accessory After the Fact lawyer Virginia immediately. Do not speak to police without your lawyer. Preserve any evidence that shows you lacked knowledge or intent.
How long do I have to be charged with accessory after the fact?
It depends. For a Class 5 felony, the statute of limitations is generally 5 years from the date of the offense. However, if the principal felony carries a longer statute, the accessory charge may align with that.
Related Resources
- Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer
- Accessory After the Fact Lawyer Arlington
- Harboring Fugitive Defense Lawyer Virginia
- Post-Crime Assistance Charge Lawyer Virginia
- Kristen Fisher Profile
Our Fairfax location serves clients throughout Northern Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
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