accessory

In one sentence

A person who helps commit a crime or helps a criminal escape, either before or after the crime.

Plain English

An accessory is someone who participates in a crime without being the main perpetrator. An accessory before the fact helps plan or encourage the crime before it happens. An accessory after the fact helps the criminal hide, escape, or avoid arrest after the crime is committed. Both can be prosecuted and punished, though often less severely than the principal offender.

Ad slot

Example

When Lisa's brother robs a store, Lisa drives the getaway car and helps him hide the money. She is an accessory to the robbery because she knowingly helped him commit and conceal the crime.

Used in a sentence

“The court found that the defendant was an accessory to the murder because he helped the shooter escape.”

Related terms

Conspiracy

An agreement between two or more people to commit a crime, plus an overt act in furtherance of that agreement.

armed robbery

Taking property from someone by force or threat while carrying a weapon.

defendant

The person accused of a crime in a criminal case or sued in a civil case.

Evidence

Information, documents, or physical items presented in court to prove or disprove facts.

Mens Rea

The guilty mind or criminal intent required to establish most crimes.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.