Bigamy Lawyer Albemarle 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.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
Bigamy is defined under Virginia law as marrying another person when you know your spouse by a former marriage is still alive, unless certain exceptions apply (such as a five-year absence believed to end in death, or a divorce decree believed to be final). The statute is specific and requires the prosecution to prove you had knowledge of the existing marriage. A conviction is a felony with lasting consequences.
You can review the official state statute at Va. Code § 18.2-362 (official Virginia General Assembly). Cases are typically initiated in the Albemarle County General District Court.
Defense Strategy for a Bigamy Charge in Albemarle County
A strong defense against a bigamy charge often hinges on challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove a key element of the crime. In Albemarle County, these cases can involve complex documentation from other states or countries regarding prior marriages, divorces, or annulments.
- Case Assessment: We immediately obtain all charging documents and review the specific allegations regarding the prior and subsequent marriages.
- Evidence Gathering: We work to secure all relevant marriage licenses, divorce decrees, annulment orders, or death certificates to establish the legal status of the prior marriage at the time of the new one.
- Legal Research: We investigate potential defenses, including lack of knowledge, belief in a valid divorce, or issues with the validity of a prior marriage.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue discussions with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal, or prepare a vigorous defense for trial if necessary.
In Albemarle County, a bigamy conviction carries a potential prison sentence of 2 to 10 years 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 | Permanent criminal record, impact on immigration status, potential impact on child custody matters. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Complex Family and Criminal Law
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in cases requiring detailed analysis of legal status and intent. He has personally handled complex statutory matters, including amending Virginia’s equitable distribution law, demonstrating a deep understanding of how family and criminal law intersect.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex cases. While every case is unique, our approach is consistent: thorough investigation, strategic planning, and aggressive advocacy. For instance, our team, including Mr. Sris, has successfully defended against serious felony charges by challenging the sufficiency of evidence and negotiating favorable resolutions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bigamy Charge Defense Lawyer Serving Albemarle County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Albemarle County and the Charlottesville area. We represent individuals at the Albemarle County General District Court and Circuit Court.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve the Charlottesville area, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
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 didn’t know my first marriage was still valid?
It depends. Virginia law requires the prosecution to prove you knew your former spouse was alive and that the prior marriage was legally valid. A good-faith belief that you were divorced can be a complete defense to a bigamy charge.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy in Albemarle County?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a bigamy lawyer immediately. Your defense will depend on gathering documents related to all marriages and understanding the specific allegations against you.
Is bigamy the same as polygamy?
No. Bigamy specifically refers to marrying one person while still legally married to another. Polygamy is a broader term for having multiple spouses simultaneously, which is also illegal. A lawyer can defend against a multiple marriage charge under either allegation.
How can a lawyer help with a bigamy charge?
A bigamy charge defense lawyer investigates the validity of all marriages, challenges the evidence of knowledge and intent, negotiates with prosecutors, and defends your rights at trial to seek dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.
For related legal help, see our pages on sex crime defense in Henrico County and criminal defense in Albemarle County. Learn more about our firm on our Richmond location page.
The same rules apply outside Albemarle County, and our page on bigamy charges across Virginia walks through each stage.