Bigamy Lawyer Essex County — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy, the act of marrying someone while still legally married to another person, is a serious crime in New York under Penal Law § 255.15. If you are facing a bigamy charge in Essex County, you need a dedicated bigamy lawyer Essex County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Essex County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
New York Bigamy Law and Penalties
In New York, bigamy is classified as a Class E felony under Penal Law § 255.15. The statute makes it illegal to contract or purport to contract a marriage with another person when you have a living spouse, or when the other person has a living spouse, from a prior marriage that has not been annulled or dissolved. A conviction can lead to significant penalties, making the counsel of a skilled bigamy lawyer Essex County essential.
In Essex County, a bigamy conviction as a Class E felony can result in up to 4 years in prison and substantial fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 or double the defendant’s gain | Criminal record, impact on immigration status, family law complications |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Approach to Bigamy Charge Defense in Essex County
Defending against a bigamy charge requires a detailed examination of the facts and applicable law. A bigamy charge defense lawyer Essex County from our firm will investigate all aspects of your case. We scrutinize the validity of prior marriages, looking for evidence that a divorce was finalized, an annulment was granted, or a spouse was believed to be deceased. We also challenge the prosecution’s evidence regarding your knowledge and intent at the time of the second marriage.
- Initial Case Review: We conduct a thorough 24/7 consultation to understand your situation and the charges against you.
- Evidence Investigation: Our team gathers all relevant documents, including marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and any communications.
- Legal Strategy Development: We build a defense strategy, which may involve arguing lack of intent, mistaken belief of divorce, or challenging the validity of a prior marriage.
- Court Representation: We provide assertive representation at all hearings, from arraignment to potential trial, in Essex County Supreme Court.
- Resolution Pursuit: We work toward the best possible outcome, which may include charge reduction or dismissal based on the evidence.
Why Choose Our Essex County Bigamy Defense Lawyers
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex criminal defense matters like bigamy charges. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in constructing defenses. We understand the severe personal and legal consequences of a bigamy conviction and provide dedicated, client-focused representation.
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. While specific results for a multiple marriage charge lawyer Essex County vary by case, our approach is thorough and strategic. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyers Serving Essex County, NY
Our New York location represents clients facing charges in Essex County courts, including those in Elizabethtown, Lake Placid, and Ticonderoga. We are your local resource for a bigamy lawyer Essex County.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Buffalo, New York 14202 Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Bigamy Charge Defense Lawyer Essex County FAQ
Is bigamy a felony in New York?
Yes. Bigamy is prosecuted as a Class E felony under New York Penal Law § 255.15, punishable by up to 4 years in state prison.
What are common defenses to a bigamy charge?
It depends. Defenses can include a good-faith belief that a prior marriage was legally ended by divorce or annulment, a belief that a prior spouse was dead, or that the prior marriage was itself void from the beginning. A bigamy charge defense lawyer Essex County can evaluate which defense applies to your case.
Can a bigamy charge affect a divorce or custody case?
Yes. A bigamy conviction can significantly impact related family court proceedings, potentially affecting judgments on marital property, support, and parental fitness.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a multiple marriage charge lawyer Essex County immediately. We can protect your rights during questioning and begin building your defense.
How can a lawyer help with a bigamy case?
A lawyer investigates the validity of all marriages, challenges the prosecution’s evidence of intent, negotiates with prosecutors, and provides strong courtroom advocacy to seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
If you need a bigamy lawyer Essex County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today. We offer 24/7 consultations to discuss your bigamy charge defense.
Related Practice Areas: Federal Criminal Defense in Essex County | Essex County Business Law
Also Serving: Albany County Civil Litigation | New York Civil Litigation Lawyers
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.