Bigamy Lawyer Alexandria — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy in Alexandria is a felony under Virginia law, carrying up to 10 years in prison. A bigamy lawyer Alexandria from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends against these serious charges. The firm has handled 4,739+ case results firm-wide. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria 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 under Va. Code § 18.2-362. This statute makes it illegal for any person, having a living spouse, to marry another person. The law applies even if the second marriage ceremony took place in another state or country. Defenses can include a good-faith belief that a prior marriage was legally dissolved by death or divorce, or that the prior marriage was void from the beginning.
In Alexandria, these cases are prosecuted in the Alexandria General District Court for preliminary hearings and move to the Alexandria Circuit Court for felony trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove the defendant had a living spouse at the time of the second marriage ceremony.
- Secure representation immediately after being charged or questioned.
- Your attorney will gather all marriage, divorce, and death certificates.
- Your lawyer will assess potential defenses, such as a good-faith belief the prior marriage was invalid.
- Your counsel will negotiate with the prosecutor or prepare for trial in Alexandria Circuit Court.
External Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-362 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Alexandria General District Court website.
Penalties for a Bigamy Charge in Alexandria
In Alexandria, a bigamy charge carries a penalty of 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | Felony record, potential immigration consequences, impact on child custody. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Complex Cases
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex criminal defense. The firm’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects its commitment to vigorous representation. With 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide and a favorable outcome rate over 93%, the firm has the depth to handle serious felony charges like bigamy.
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 Defense Strategy
While specific bigamy case results are confidential, the firm’s overall record in serious felony defense is strong. For example, the firm has secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) in solicitation cases and favorable bond reinstatements in complex computer solicitation matters. In defending a bigamy charge, a lawyer will meticulously examine marriage records, divorce decrees, and the defendant’s state of mind to build a defense. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on such cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at the Alexandria courts. We are a bigamy charge defense lawyer Alexandria for residents of Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Bigamy Charge Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for bigamy in Virginia?
Bigamy is a Class 4 felony in Virginia, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
Can you go to jail for bigamy in Virginia?
Yes. A conviction for bigamy, a felony, carries a mandatory prison sentence of 2 to 10 years under Va. Code § 18.2-362.
What are common defenses to a bigamy charge?
It depends. Common defenses include a good-faith belief that a prior spouse was dead, that a divorce was final, or that the first marriage was legally void. An experienced multiple marriage charge lawyer Alexandria can evaluate the specific facts of your case.
Is bigamy a federal crime?
No. Bigamy is prosecuted under state law. However, if it involves crossing state lines or immigration fraud, federal charges for wire fraud or immigration offenses may apply.
Who prosecutes bigamy cases in Alexandria?
The Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Alexandria prosecutes bigamy cases, which are heard in the Alexandria Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing in General District Court.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Sex Crime Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby Arlington County. For other legal needs in Alexandria, consider our Alexandria Criminal Defense Lawyer or Alexandria Family Law Lawyer services. Learn more about our firm at our Arlington location page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.