New York accomplice elements — which are required?

• A. Mere presence suffices
• B. Knowledge-only liability
• C. Aids or encourages the conduct; Intends that the crime be committed; No defense for accomplice
• D. The principal's guilt is irrelevant

Answer: (C)

In New York, liability as an accomplice hinges on active involvement with a purpose to promote the crime. Mere presence at the scene or knowledge of a plan isn’t enough; you must actually aid or encourage the offense. And you must intend that the crime be committed—your actions and mindset must be directed toward bringing about the criminal result.

If those elements are satisfied, the accomplice can be charged with the same offense as the principal, and the principal’s guilt (or lack of it) doesn’t provide a defense for the accomplice. For example, even if the principal isn’t convicted or is found not guilty, someone who aided and intended the crime to occur can still be held liable.

That’s why the correct understanding is: aiding or encouraging conduct, with the intent that the crime be committed, and no defense for the accomplice based on the principal’s guilt.