Bigamy Lawyer Mercer County — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy, the act of entering into a marriage while still legally married to another person, is a serious crime in New Jersey. In Mercer County, bigamy is prosecuted as a fourth-degree indictable offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:24-1, carrying potential penalties of up to 18 months in prison.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Understanding Bigamy Charges in New Jersey
Bigamy is defined under New Jersey law as knowingly contracting or purporting to contract a marriage with another person when the actor has a living spouse, or when the other person has a living spouse. The statute, N.J.S.A. 2C:24-1, classifies bigamy as a crime of the fourth degree. A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and immigration status. Defending against these charges often involves examining the validity of prior marriages, establishing a lack of criminal intent, or challenging the prosecution’s evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to the New Jersey bigamy statute (N.J.S.A. 2C:24-1). All bigamy cases in Mercer County are heard in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Mercer Vicinage.
Defense Strategy for a Bigamy Charge in Mercer County
Successfully defending a bigamy charge requires a detailed, case-specific approach. Prosecutors in Mercer County must prove you knowingly entered a second marriage while a prior one was legally valid and undissolved. A common defense is a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally terminated through divorce or annulment. Our team will meticulously review divorce decrees, separation agreements, and foreign marriage documents to build your defense. We understand the procedures at the Mercer County Superior Court and work to protect your rights and future.
- Initial Case Review: We conduct a thorough consultation to understand all circumstances of both marriages.
- Evidence Gathering: We collect and analyze all relevant documents, including marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and annulment papers.
- Defense Strategy Development: Based on the evidence, we formulate a defense, which may focus on lack of intent or the invalidity of a prior marriage.
- Court Representation: We represent you at all hearings in Mercer County Superior Court, advocating for dismissal, a favorable plea, or acquittal at trial.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Mercer County
In Mercer County, a bigamy conviction as a fourth-degree crime can result in up to 18 months in state prison and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Fourth-Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Permanent criminal record; potential impact on immigration, professional licenses, and child custody matters. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bigamy Charge Defense
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. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand that a bigamy charge is not just a legal issue but a personal crisis that demands a discreet and vigorous defense. Our team is prepared to handle the details of your case in Mercer County.
Our Approach to Bigamy Cases
We approach every bigamy charge defense lawyer Mercer County case with a focus on the specific facts. We investigate whether you had a genuine belief that you were free to marry, which is a key defense under New Jersey law. We also explore all procedural options, including pre-trial interventions or negotiations for a lesser charge, to seek the best possible resolution for your situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyer Serving Mercer County, NJ
Our New Jersey location represents clients facing bigamy and multiple marriage charges across Mercer County, including in Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton Township, and Ewing. We are accessible from I-95, Route 1, and the NJ Turnpike.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bigamy Charges in Mercer County
Is bigamy a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. In New Jersey, bigamy is classified as a fourth-degree indictable offense, which is equivalent to a felony in other states. It is prosecuted in Superior Court.
What is the main defense against a bigamy charge?
It depends. The most common defense is a good-faith belief that a prior marriage was legally dissolved by divorce or annulment, or that the prior marriage was invalid. Proving this lack of criminal intent is often central to the case.
Can I go to jail for bigamy in Mercer County?
Yes. A conviction for bigamy, a fourth-degree crime, carries a potential sentence of up to 18 months in New Jersey state prison, along with substantial fines.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a bigamy charge defense lawyer Mercer County immediately. An experienced lawyer from SRIS, P.C. can protect your rights, analyze the evidence, and begin building your defense strategy.
How can a lawyer help with a multiple marriage charge?
A multiple marriage charge lawyer Mercer County from our firm can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate for a reduced charge or diversion program, and represent you at trial. We work to achieve a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life.
Related Legal Services in Mercer County
If you are facing other legal challenges, our firm also provides representation for sex crimes, DUI, and business law matters in Mercer County. For a broader overview of our sex crime defense practice, visit our New Jersey sex crime lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.