Bigamy Lawyer Chesterfield Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Bigamy, the act of marrying one person while still legally married to another, 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 these charges in Chesterfield County, you need a dedicated bigamy lawyer. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
In Virginia, bigamy is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-362. A person commits this crime if they, having a living spouse, marry another person, or if they marry someone they know has a living spouse. The statute requires that the first marriage was lawful and has not been dissolved by death, divorce, or annulment. A conviction is a Class 4 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 2 to 10 years and a fine of up to $100,000. Beyond criminal penalties, a bigamy conviction can profoundly impact child custody, spousal support, and property division in related family court proceedings.
- Secure immediate legal counsel from a domestic relations lawyer familiar with Virginia’s bigamy statute.
- Your attorney will gather all marriage, divorce, and annulment records to establish the legal status of all marriages involved.
- File necessary motions in Chesterfield County Circuit Court, which handles all felony trials.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may include proving a good-faith belief the prior marriage was dissolved.
- Prepare for and attend all court hearings, from the preliminary hearing at the General District Court to the final trial.
External Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-362 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court-specific information, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield 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 | Void subsequent marriage; impacts divorce/custody cases; social stigma. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Family and Criminal Defense Law
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93% favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally played a key role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep involvement in shaping family law. This background in both criminal defense and complex family law is critical for bigamy cases, which sit at the intersection of both practice areas.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our approach is informed by a history of successful advocacy. In Chesterfield County, our documented results in related matters demonstrate our commitment to strong defense. For instance, we have secured a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal) for a client facing solicitation of prostitution charges in Chesterfield County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our team, including firm founder Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems—provides strategic defense case-specific to the specific details of your case.
Local Legal Support for Chesterfield County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (804) 377-1250
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout Chesterfield County, including the communities of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 360. If you need a bigamy lawyer near Chesterfield County courts, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bigamy in Virginia
Is bigamy a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Bigamy is classified as a Class 4 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-362.
A conviction can result in a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years and a fine of up to $100,000. The charge is prosecuted in the Circuit Court of the county where the offense occurred.
What is a common defense to a bigamy charge?
It depends. A common defense is a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of the spouse. Your family court lawyer must obtain certified records to prove this belief was reasonable.
Can a bigamy charge affect my divorce or custody case?
Yes. A bigamy conviction can significantly impact family court decisions.
A judge may view the crime as evidence of dishonesty or instability, influencing rulings on child custody, spousal support, and the division of marital property. It is crucial to have a family attorney who can address both the criminal and family law aspects.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy in Chesterfield County?
First, do not speak to authorities without an attorney. Second, contact a domestic relations lawyer or criminal defense attorney immediately. Your lawyer will need to gather all marriage and divorce certificates and prepare for your initial hearing at the Chesterfield County General District Court.
Where are bigamy cases heard in Chesterfield County?
Felony bigamy cases are ultimately tried in the Chesterfield County Circuit Court. The process typically begins with a preliminary hearing in the Chesterfield County General District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to the Circuit Court.
Related Legal Information
If you are dealing with other family legal matters, you may need a family attorney in Chesterfield County. For a broader view of our sex crimes defense practice in Virginia, visit our Virginia sex crime defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Chesterfield cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on bigamy defense lawyer in Virginia explains each stage.