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 North Carolina, aiding and abetting is a criminal offense that involves assisting, encouraging, or facilitating the commission of a crime. Under North Carolina General Statutes, a person can be charged with aiding and abetting if they knowingly and willfully provide assistance or support to the principal offender before or during the commission of a crime. The aider and abettor must share the criminal intent with the principal offender and take some action that contributes to the execution of the crime. The charge does not require the aider and abettor to be physically present at the scene of the crime. If convicted, the aider and abettor can face the same penalties as the principal offender. Additionally, if the involvement reaches a certain threshold, it may also constitute a conspiracy, which is a separate offense under North Carolina law. It is important for anyone facing such charges to consult with an attorney to understand the specific implications of the charges and to develop an appropriate defense strategy.