aider and abettor

In one sentence

A person who helps or encourages someone else to commit a crime.

Plain English

An aider and abettor is someone who assists in or encourages the commission of a crime, even if they don't actually commit the crime themselves. They might provide tools, give advice, stand watch, or simply encourage the main offender. The law holds aiders and abettors criminally responsible as if they had committed the crime directly.

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Example

During a robbery, one person enters the store and takes money while another waits outside in a running car as a getaway driver. The getaway driver is an aider and abettor because they knowingly assisted in the robbery, even though they didn't enter the store.

Used in a sentence

“The court found him guilty as an aider and abettor to the burglary because he provided the tools and kept watch.”

Related terms

accessory after the fact

Helping a criminal escape or hide after they've committed a crime.

abettor

A person who helps, encourages, or supports someone else in committing a crime.

Prosecution

The government's legal action to charge and try someone for a crime.

Sentencing

The judge's decision on punishment after a defendant is found guilty.

confession

A voluntary admission by someone that they committed a crime.

accomplice

Someone who knowingly helps another person commit a crime.

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.

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.