Bigamy Lawyer York County — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy, entering a second marriage while still legally married, is a Class 4 felony in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2-362, punishable by 2-10 years in prison. If you are facing this charge in York County, you need a strategic defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has experience with complex criminal cases.
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
Bigamy is defined under Virginia law as knowingly marrying another person while a prior spouse is still living and the prior marriage is still legally valid. The statute requires the prosecution to prove you had a “spouse living” at the time of the second marriage ceremony. A conviction is a felony with serious consequences.
Last verified: April 2026 | York County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see the official Va. Code § 18.2-362 (bigamy statute) on the Virginia Legislative Information System. Court procedures for York County can be found at the York County General District Court website.
Defending a Bigamy Charge in York County
A bigamy charge defense lawyer York County must challenge the Commonwealth’s ability to prove every element of the crime. Common defense strategies include arguing a lack of knowledge that the first marriage was still valid, presenting evidence of a valid divorce or annulment, or challenging the validity of one of the marriage ceremonies. The prosecution must prove you knowingly entered the second marriage with a living spouse from a prior, undissolved union.
- Case Assessment: We obtain all marriage and divorce records to establish the factual timeline.
- Evidence Review: We analyze the prosecution’s evidence for weaknesses, such as lack of proof regarding your knowledge.
- Motion Filing: We may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if the Commonwealth’s case is legally insufficient.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue the best outcome, whether through plea negotiations for a reduced charge or by taking the case to trial in York County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Virginia
In York 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-362) | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | Felony criminal record; potential impact on immigration status, professional licenses, and child custody matters. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Complex Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that a bigamy charge can stem from misunderstandings about divorce finality or the legal status of a prior marriage. We approach these sensitive cases with diligence and a focus on protecting your future.
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 favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In York County, we have 13 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. For a multiple marriage charge lawyer York County, building a defense requires meticulous attention to legal details and personal circumstances. We work to achieve the best possible resolution for your situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyer Near York County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients in York County and the surrounding communities of Yorktown, Grafton, Tabb, and Seaford. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 17. If you need a bigamy lawyer York County, contact us for a confidential consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
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 I be charged with bigamy if I thought I was divorced?
It depends. The law requires you to have knowingly married while still legally married. If you had a good-faith belief your prior marriage was dissolved, that can be a defense. A lawyer must gather divorce records to support this claim.
What does a bigamy charge defense lawyer do?
A bigamy charge defense lawyer investigates the validity of all marriages involved, obtains certified court records, challenges the prosecution’s evidence of knowledge, and works to have charges reduced or dismissed based on the specific facts of your case.
Where are bigamy cases heard in York County?
Felony bigamy charges begin with a preliminary hearing at the York County General District Court (300 Ballard Street). If the case proceeds, it will be tried in the York County Circuit Court at the same address.
Why do I need a lawyer for a multiple marriage charge?
A multiple marriage charge lawyer York County is essential because the consequences of a felony conviction are severe. An experienced attorney can handle the complex legal issues surrounding marriage validity and build a defense to protect your rights and future.
Related Legal Services: If you are facing other criminal charges, our firm also provides representation for criminal defense in York County, DUI defense, and sex crime defense across Virginia.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.