Accessory Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Accessory.

Accessory (noun)

An accessory is an individual who aids, contributes, or helps in the execution of a crime, but doesn't actually perform the criminal act themselves. This can involve actions before the crime, such as planning or providing tools, as well as actions after the crime, like hiding evidence or assisting in the criminal's escape. Even if they were not present at the scene of the crime, their involvement makes them partially responsible according to the law.