Aiding & Abetting: Definition & Penalties

If you were accused of being involved in a crime in any way, you could be charged with aiding and abetting. It is not necessary to actually be present when the crime took place, but it is necessary that the individual (known as the accessory) had prior knowledge of the crime or helped in its commission through money or advice. According to the U.S. Code Title 18 Section 2, an accessory is anyone who "aids, abets, counsels, commands, induces or procures its commission." Depending on the state, a person convicted of aiding and abetting may be given the same sentence as the principal perpetrator, however, the punishment could also be less severe in other states.

In order to avoid the harsh consequences of aiding and abetting, contact a Miami criminal defense attorney for aggressive legal defense. We have experience in every area of criminal defense law, including theft, sex crimes, DUI defense, and drug crimes. We are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, so contact a Miami criminal lawyer today!