Bigamy Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Bigamy in New Kent County is a Class 4 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-362, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. A conviction also carries significant social stigma and can impact immigration status. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing a bigamy charge in New Kent County.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly.
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
Bigamy is defined under Virginia law as entering into a marriage while still legally married to another person. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-362, classifies it as a Class 4 felony. This is a serious charge that is prosecuted in the Circuit Court after an initial hearing in the New Kent County General District Court. A conviction can have severe and lasting consequences beyond the immediate legal penalties.
- Arrest and Initial Hearing: You will be served with a warrant and have an initial hearing at the New Kent County General District Court.
- Bond Hearing: The court will determine if you can be released on bond and under what conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: The Commonwealth must show probable cause that the crime occurred. Your attorney can challenge the evidence.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case proceeds, you will be formally charged in New Kent County Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: The case will either go to a jury trial or be resolved through a plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for a Bigamy Conviction
In New Kent County, a bigamy conviction carries a penalty of 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000, with lifelong collateral consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent criminal record, damage to reputation, potential immigration deportation, impact on child custody cases. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Defending Bigamy and Multiple Marriage Charges
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal matters. Our approach is direct and strategic, focusing on the specific details of your situation. For a multiple marriage charge lawyer New Kent County residents can rely on, our team understands how to scrutinize the evidence, such as the validity of prior marriages or divorces, to build a strong defense.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients. In one case, we successfully argued for the dismissal of charges where the validity of a prior foreign divorce was in question. In another, we negotiated a reduction to a misdemeanor offense, avoiding felony penalties for our client. We approach each bigamy charge defense with a focus on protecting your future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64 and Route 33. We provide representation for individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bigamy Charges in Virginia
Is bigamy a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Bigamy is classified as a Class 4 felony under Virginia Code § 18.2-362, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
What are common defenses to a bigamy charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally dissolved (e.g., based on a faulty divorce decree), the invalidity of the prior marriage itself, or lack of intent to commit bigamy. A bigamy charge defense lawyer New Kent County can evaluate which defense applies to your case.
Can I go to jail for a bigamy charge in New Kent County?
Yes. A conviction for bigamy, a Class 4 felony, carries a mandatory active prison sentence ranging from 2 to 10 years in a Virginia state correctional facility.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a bigamy lawyer New Kent County like Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. We will protect your rights, analyze the evidence against you, and begin building a defense strategy case-specific to the specifics of your charge.
How can a lawyer help with a multiple marriage charge?
A multiple marriage charge lawyer New Kent County can challenge the prosecution’s proof of a prior valid marriage, negotiate for a reduction in charges, file motions to suppress evidence, and represent you at trial. The goal is to avoid a felony conviction and its severe consequences.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.