Bigamy Lawyer Virginia Beach — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy in Virginia Beach is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-362, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. A conviction can destroy your reputation and family life. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing a bigamy charge.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
Bigamy, the act of marrying someone while still legally married to another person, is a Class 4 felony in Virginia. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-362, makes it illegal for any person, having a former husband or wife living, to marry another person within the Commonwealth. The prosecution must prove you had a living spouse at the time of the second marriage and that you knew the first marriage was still valid. Defenses often involve demonstrating a good-faith belief the first marriage was legally dissolved, such as through a divorce decree you believed was final.
In Virginia Beach, these cases are prosecuted in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. The penalties are severe, including 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. Beyond the criminal sentence, a bigamy conviction can have devastating personal consequences, affecting child custody, immigration status, and professional licenses.
- Secure immediate legal representation before making any statements.
- Your attorney will gather all marriage and divorce certificates.
- We will investigate the validity and your knowledge of the prior marriage.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge the evidence or seek dismissal.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable resolution.
- Prepare for trial to defend your rights if necessary.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Virginia
In Virginia Beach, a bigamy conviction is a Class 4 felony carrying 2-10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy (Va. Code § 18.2-362) | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | Loss of professional licenses, immigration consequences, impact on child custody. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Sensitive Criminal Charges
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds its cases. We have handled thousands of sensitive criminal matters, including those involving complex personal and family circumstances like bigamy. Our approach is discreet, thorough, and focused on achieving the best possible outcome to protect your freedom and reputation.
Case Results in Virginia Beach
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in Virginia Beach courts. While every case is unique, our strategic defense has led to dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements for our clients. For instance, our team has successfully argued for reduced charges in cases where clients acted under a good-faith belief regarding their marital status. Matthew Greene, a key attorney on our team with over 30 years of experience, contributes significant depth to our defense strategies in complex felony cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Virginia Beach General District and Circuit Courts. We are accessible via I-64 and other major highways for clients in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. If you need a multiple marriage charge lawyer Virginia Beach, we are here to help.
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.
Virginia Beach Bigamy Lawyer FAQ
What is the penalty for bigamy in Virginia Beach?
Bigamy is a Class 4 felony in Virginia, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. The case is prosecuted in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
Can I go to jail for bigamy if I didn’t know my first marriage was still valid?
It depends. A valid defense to bigamy is a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally dissolved by death, divorce, or annulment. A bigamy lawyer Virginia Beach can help gather evidence, such as faulty divorce paperwork, to support this defense and seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy?
Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a bigamy charge defense lawyer Virginia Beach immediately. We will secure all relevant marriage and divorce documents, investigate the circumstances, and begin building your defense to protect your rights from the outset.
How can a lawyer help with a bigamy charge?
A lawyer examines the validity of all marriages, challenges the prosecution’s evidence, and asserts defenses like good-faith belief. An experienced multiple marriage charge lawyer Virginia Beach negotiates with prosecutors to avoid a felony conviction, which can preserve your reputation, career, and family relationships.
For more information on Virginia law, you can review the official Virginia bigamy statute or visit the Virginia Courts website.
If you are facing related charges, you may also need a Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer. For statewide information, see our Virginia sex crime defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.