Bigamy Lawyer Orange County — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy, the act of entering into a marriage while still legally married to another person, is a Class 4 felony in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2-362, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison. If you are facing a bigamy charge in Orange County, you need a dedicated bigamy lawyer Orange County from the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
In Virginia, bigamy is defined as knowingly marrying another person while a prior marriage is still legally valid. This includes situations where a person believes a divorce is final but it is not, or where a spouse is missing but not legally declared dead. The statute is strict and does not require an intent to defraud; knowledge of the prior marriage’s validity is the key element the prosecution must prove.
Last verified: April 2026 | Orange County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Defense Strategy for a Bigamy Charge in Orange County
A strong defense against a bigamy charge often hinges on challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove you had knowledge that your prior marriage was still legally binding. We meticulously examine divorce decrees, separation agreements, and communications to build your case. In Orange County, prosecutors must present certified marriage records and proof of the prior marriage’s validity. An experienced bigamy charge defense lawyer Orange County can identify weaknesses in this chain of evidence.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: We review all marriage certificates, divorce papers, and your account of events to identify the core legal issues.
- Evidence Investigation: We obtain certified records from other jurisdictions to verify the status of prior marriages and any divorce proceedings.
- Legal Motion Filing: If applicable, we file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s proof of a valid prior marriage.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue negotiations for a reduction or dismissal. If a fair resolution isn’t possible, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Orange County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Virginia
In Orange County, a bigamy conviction is a Class 4 felony carrying 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent criminal record, impact on immigration status, potential loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bigamy Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the 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 with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight relentlessly for every client. Mr. Sris’s unique background in accounting and information systems provides an advantage in cases involving complex personal and financial records.
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 record of achieving favorable outcomes in complex cases. In Orange County, we use our deep understanding of local court procedures and prosecution strategies. For instance, in a prior case involving multiple felony charges, our negotiation resulted in a significant reduction of charges and penalties for our client.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Bigamy Defense in Orange County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients facing charges at the Orange County courts at 110 N. Madison Road. We are your local bigamy lawyer near Orange County, accessible via Route 15 and Route 20. We serve the communities of Orange and Gordonsville.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Bigamy Defense FAQs in Orange County
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 I be charged with bigamy if I thought I was divorced?
It depends. The prosecution must prove you knew the prior marriage was still valid. A reasonable, good-faith belief that a divorce was final can be a strong defense. A multiple marriage charge lawyer Orange County can investigate to support this claim with documentation.
Is bigamy a federal crime?
No. Bigamy is prosecuted under state law, not federal law. Your case will be heard in Virginia state courts, like the Orange County Circuit Court.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a bigamy lawyer Orange County. Gather any documents related to all marriages and divorces. We can secure these records and begin building your defense during a 24/7 consultation.
Can a bigamy charge be dismissed?
Yes, possible grounds for dismissal include lack of evidence that the first marriage was valid, proof of a finalized divorce, or demonstrating the defendant’s reasonable belief the prior spouse was deceased. An experienced attorney can file the necessary motions to seek dismissal.
Related Practice Areas: Criminal Defense Lawyer Orange County | Sex Crime Defense Lawyer Orange County
Other Locations: Sex Crime Defense Lawyer Fairfax County | Sex Crime Defense Lawyer Prince William County
State Hub: Virginia Sex Crime Defense Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.