Bigamy Lawyer Salem County — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy, the act of entering into a marriage while still legally married to another person, is a serious criminal offense in New Jersey. If you are facing a bigamy charge in Salem County, you need a dedicated bigamy lawyer Salem County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Salem Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Understanding Bigamy Charges Under New Jersey Law
In New Jersey, bigamy is classified as a crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:24-1. The statute makes it illegal for a person to marry or purport to marry another person if they know they have a living spouse from a prior marriage that has not been legally dissolved by death, divorce, or annulment. A conviction is a crime of the fourth degree, which can carry significant penalties. Defending against a bigamy charge requires a lawyer who understands the specific legal definitions and evidentiary requirements.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-1 (official New Jersey statutes). Court procedures for Salem County are handled by the Superior Court of New Jersey, Salem Vicinage.
handling a Bigamy Case in Salem County Court
Prosecutors in Salem County must prove you knowingly entered a second marriage while a prior one was still valid. A common defense involves challenging the validity of the first marriage or proving a good-faith belief it was legally ended. In the Salem Vicinage, these cases are heard in the Criminal Division of Superior Court. The process moves from an initial arraignment to pre-trial conferences and, if necessary, a trial.
- Secure representation from a bigamy charge defense lawyer Salem County immediately after being charged.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all marriage records and divorce decrees from any involved jurisdictions.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence or seek dismissal.
- If the case proceeds, we will prepare a defense strategy, which may include negotiating for a reduced charge or presenting your case at trial.
Potential Penalties for a Bigamy Conviction
In Salem County, a bigamy conviction as a fourth-degree crime can result in up to 18 months in prison and significant fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Crime of the 4th Degree | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Criminal record, impact on immigration status, potential impact on child custody matters. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bigamy Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a documented history of favorable outcomes, our firm brings a depth of knowledge to complex criminal defense cases like bigamy. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we commit fully to protecting your rights and future.
Our Approach to Bigamy Defense
We approach every bigamy charge defense with a detailed case-specific strategy. Our first step is a thorough investigation into the validity of all marriages involved. We examine divorce records from other states or countries, looking for any procedural defects that could invalidate the prior marriage. We also explore whether you held a good-faith belief that you were free to marry, which can be a complete defense. Our goal is to secure the best possible resolution, whether through dismissal, acquittal, or negotiation for a lesser offense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyer Near Salem County
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Salem County courts. We represent individuals in Salem, Pennsville, Carneys Point, Woodstown, and surrounding communities. For a bigamy lawyer near Salem County, contact us 24/7.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bigamy Charges in Salem County
Is bigamy a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. Bigamy is classified as a crime of the fourth degree in New Jersey, which is indictable and treated similarly to a felony in other states. Conviction can result in state prison time.
What is the difference between bigamy and polygamy?
Bigamy specifically refers to the act of marrying one person while still legally married to another. Polygamy is a broader term for having multiple spouses simultaneously, which is often part of a religious or cultural practice. Both are illegal under New Jersey law.
Can I go to jail for a bigamy charge in Salem County?
Yes. A fourth-degree crime in New Jersey carries a potential sentence of up to 18 months in prison. The actual outcome depends on the case facts, your history, and the effectiveness of your multiple marriage charge lawyer Salem County.
What are common defenses to a bigamy charge?
Common defenses include proving a good-faith belief that the first marriage was legally ended by divorce or annulment, demonstrating that the first marriage was void from the beginning (e.g., due to fraud or incapacity), or challenging the prosecution’s evidence that you knowingly entered the second marriage.
How long does a bigamy case take?
It depends. A clear case resolved by a plea may conclude in a few months. A case that goes through full pre-trial motions and a trial can take a year or more in the Superior Court system. Your bigamy lawyer Salem County can give a more specific timeline after reviewing your case.