Aiding and Abetting Lawyer New Kent County — Defending Accessory Charges
An aiding and abetting charge in New Kent County is a serious criminal offense under Virginia law, where you can be held liable as a principal for another person’s crime. An aiding and abetting lawyer New Kent County from SRIS, P.C. can defend you against these accessory charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Aiding and Abetting Law
In Virginia, the legal principle of aiding and abetting is established under the common law and codified in statutes that hold accomplices equally responsible as the principal offender. You do not need to have physically committed the crime to be charged; providing assistance, encouragement, or failing to prevent a crime when you have a legal duty can lead to prosecution. The prosecution must prove you shared the criminal intent of the principal and knowingly facilitated the crime’s commission.
This means an aiding and abetting lawyer New Kent County must challenge both your actions and your alleged intent. Defenses often focus on lack of knowledge, absence of intent, or withdrawal from the criminal activity before it occurred.
- Secure immediate legal counsel after arrest or learning of an investigation.
- Your aiding and abetting lawyer New Kent County will review all evidence, including communications and witness statements.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence linking you to the crime.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges.
- Prepare for a vigorous defense at trial in New Kent County General District or Circuit Court if necessary.
Penalties for Aiding and Abetting in Virginia
In New Kent County, the penalty for aiding and abetting is identical to the penalty for the underlying felony or misdemeanor you are accused of facilitating.
| Underlying Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Long-Term Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Misdemeanor (e.g., Assault) | Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, employment difficulties |
| Class 5 Felony (e.g., Grand Larceny) | Felony | 1 to 10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Loss of civil rights, firearm prohibition |
| Class 6 Felony | Felony | 1 to 5 years* | Up to $2,500 | Same as above, immigration consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Or, in the discretion of the jury, confinement in jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500.
Our Defense Approach for Aiding Criminal Activity Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team uses a strategic approach to defend clients accused of being an accessory. We immediately investigate to determine if the prosecution can prove you had the requisite criminal intent and took substantial steps to aid the crime. We look for evidence of coercion, lack of knowledge, or your withdrawal from the plan—key defenses in an aiding criminal activity lawyer New Kent County case.
Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides oversight on complex cases. His experience on both sides of the courtroom informs our defense strategy, ensuring we anticipate the prosecution’s moves.
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 in New Kent County
Our firm has a record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients in the region. In New Kent County, we have documented criminal case results. While every case is unique, our focused defense aims for dismissals, reductions, or acquittals.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County. We are accessible via I-64 and represent individuals throughout the region, including in Providence Forge and Quinton. If you need an aiding and abetting lawyer New Kent County near the New Kent County Courthouse, contact us for a consultation.
Aiding and Abetting Charges in New Kent County: FAQs
What does “aiding and abetting” mean in Virginia?
It means assisting, supporting, or encouraging another person in committing a crime, making you legally responsible as if you committed it yourself.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know a crime was going to happen?
No. A key element the prosecution must prove is that you knowingly and intentionally assisted the crime. An accessory charge defense lawyer New Kent County can argue you lacked this criminal knowledge or intent.
What is the difference between an accessory before and after the fact?
An accessory before the fact aids before the crime occurs. An accessory after the fact assists after the crime is complete, which is a separate, often less severe, offense under Virginia law.
What are common defenses to an aiding and abetting charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, withdrawal from the criminal plan, coercion, and mistaken identity. An aiding and abetting lawyer New Kent County will analyze the evidence to identify the strongest defense for your situation.
Where are aiding and abetting cases heard in New Kent County?
Misdemeanor aiding and abetting cases are heard in New Kent County General District Court. Felony cases begin there for preliminary hearings and proceed to New Kent County Circuit Court for trial.
For more information on Virginia criminal law, you can review the official Virginia criminal statutes or visit the New Kent County Courts website.
If you are facing related charges, explore our pages for a DUI lawyer in New Kent County or a family law attorney in New Kent County. For a broader overview, see our Virginia criminal defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. The information on this page is for general purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.