A criminal charge of aiding and abetting is known as an accomplice crime, and may be brought against anyone who helps with the commission of a crime. Aiding and abetting charges vary from state to state (and under federal law), but generally require that the defendant knowingly and intentionally aided and abetted the principal(s) in each essential element of the underlying crime. A person charged with aiding and abetting is often not present when the underlying crime is committed, but has knowledge of the crime before the crime is committed, and assists with the commission of the crime by providing information, action, or financial support. If the person aiding and abetting has a sufficient degree of involvement in the crime, the participation may rise to the level of being a conspiracy to commit the underlying crime.

In Maine, aiding and abetting is addressed under the state's complicity laws. According to Maine law, a person is criminally liable for the conduct of another when, with the intent to promote or facilitate the commission of the crime, they aid or abet the principal before or during the commission of the crime. This means that an individual can be charged with aiding and abetting if they intentionally help in the planning or execution of a crime, even if they are not present at the scene. The assistance can be in the form of providing information, resources, or any other support that enables the principal to commit the crime. The level of involvement required for a charge of aiding and abetting can vary, but it generally requires a showing that the defendant played a significant role in the crime. If the involvement is substantial enough, it could also lead to charges of conspiracy. Maine's statutes align with the general principles of accomplice liability, which are also recognized at the federal level.