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 Mississippi, aiding and abetting is recognized as a form of accomplice liability. Under Mississippi law, a person can be charged with aiding and abetting if they intentionally assist, encourage, or facilitate the commission of a crime, or if they contribute to the planning or execution of a crime. This assistance can be through actions, advice, or financial support. The individual charged with aiding and abetting does not need to be present at the scene of the crime but must have knowledge of the criminal intent and act with the purpose of helping the crime succeed. The level of involvement can determine whether the charge is for aiding and abetting or for a more serious offense like conspiracy. Mississippi law treats accomplices with the same severity as the principal offender, meaning that someone convicted of aiding and abetting can face the same penalties as if they had committed the underlying offense themselves.