Bigamy Lawyer Calvert 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 Maryland prosecuted under Md. Code, Criminal Law Art. § 10-501. In Calvert County, a conviction can result in up to 10 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Understanding Bigamy Charges in Maryland
Bigamy is defined under Maryland law as knowingly contracting a marriage while a prior marriage of either party has not been legally dissolved. The statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Art. § 10-501, classifies bigamy as a felony. A conviction carries severe penalties, including a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine not exceeding $5,000. Beyond the criminal penalties, a bigamy conviction can have devastating personal consequences, affecting child custody, immigration status, and your reputation.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Calvert County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s bigamy statute, refer to Md. Code, Criminal Law Art. § 10-501 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures and filings for Calvert County cases are handled through the District Court of MD for Calvert County website.
Defense Strategy for a Bigamy Charge in Calvert County
Defending against a bigamy charge requires a meticulous examination of the facts and legal precedents. A common defense is a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally terminated through divorce, annulment, or death. Proving this belief was reasonable is critical. Other defenses may involve challenging the validity of the prior marriage itself or demonstrating that the prosecution cannot prove all elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: We analyze all marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and communications to understand the timeline and your knowledge.
- Investigation & Evidence Gathering: Our team works to obtain records and identify witnesses that support your defense of a good-faith belief.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We may file motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence or seek dismissal if the state’s case is legally insufficient.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue every avenue, from negotiating for a favorable resolution to aggressively defending your rights at trial in Calvert County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Calvert County
In Calvert County, a bigamy conviction is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $5,000 fine, with lasting personal consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $5,000 | Invalidation of marriage, impact on child custody, immigration issues, permanent criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bigamy Charge Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, providing a unique advantage in dissecting complex case details. We have a documented record of over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93% firm-wide. We understand the high stakes of a bigamy charge and provide a focused, strategic defense.
Our Experience with Criminal Defense Cases
Our firm has a proven track record in criminal defense. While every case is unique, our approach is consistently thorough and aggressive. For instance, we have successfully secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in serious charges like child pornography distribution in Maryland courts. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bigamy Lawyer Near Calvert County
Our Maryland location serves clients in Calvert County and surrounding communities like Prince Frederick, Solomons, Chesapeake Beach, and North Beach. We are accessible via Route 2/4 and Route 260.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bigamy Charges
What is the penalty for bigamy in Maryland?
Bigamy is a felony in Maryland under Md. Code, Criminal Law Art. § 10-501, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 upon conviction.
Can I go to jail for a bigamy charge in Calvert County?
Yes. A bigamy charge defense lawyer Calvert County can explain that a conviction is a felony with a maximum sentence of 10 years incarceration. A strong legal defense is essential to avoid this outcome.
What are common defenses to a bigamy charge?
Common defenses include demonstrating a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally ended (e.g., you believed a divorce was final), proving the prior marriage was void, or challenging the state’s ability to prove you acted knowingly.
How can a multiple marriage charge lawyer Calvert County help me?
A multiple marriage charge lawyer Calvert County investigates the circumstances, gathers evidence like divorce records, develops a defense strategy focused on your state of mind, and represents you in all court proceedings to seek the best possible resolution.
Does a bigamy charge affect a divorce or custody case?
It depends. A bigamy conviction can significantly impact family court proceedings, potentially affecting judgments on marital property, spousal support, and child custody, as it speaks to issues of credibility and stability.
Related Legal Services in Calvert County: If you are dealing with related family law issues, you may also need a divorce lawyer in Calvert County. For other criminal matters, consider our Calvert County criminal defense attorneys.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.
For the background behind a Calvert County charge, our page explains how Maryland courts handle a bigamy charge.