Accomplice
Definition
A person who knowingly, voluntarily, or intentionally gives assistance to another in (or in some cases fails to prevent another from) the commission of a crime. An accomplice is criminally liable to the same extent as the principal. An accomplice, unlike an accessory, is typically present when the crime is committed.
Illustrative caselaw
See, e.g. Waddington v. Sarausad, 129 S.Ct. 823 (2009).
See also
Definition from Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary
Someone who helps another person (known as the principal) commit a crime. Unlike an accessory, an accomplice is usually present when the crime is committed. An accomplice is guilty of the same offense and usually receives the same sentence as the principal. For instance, the driver of the getaway car for a burglary is an accomplice and will be guilty of the burglary even though he may not have entered the building. (See also: accessory)
Definition provided by Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary.
August 19, 2010, 5:10 pm
