Fairfax Bigamy Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Bigamy, the act of entering into a marriage while a prior marriage is still legally valid, is a felony in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2-362. A conviction can result in up to 10 years in prison. If you are facing a bigamy charge in Fairfax, you need an experienced bigamy lawyer Fairfax. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
In Virginia, bigamy is defined as marrying another person while a former spouse is still living and the prior marriage is undissolved, unless certain exceptions apply. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-362, classifies bigamy as a Class 4 felony. This is a serious charge that requires immediate legal attention from a skilled bigamy charge defense lawyer Fairfax.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the Virginia bigamy statute, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-362. For Fairfax-specific court procedures and filing information, visit the Fairfax County Circuit Court website.
Defending a Bigamy Charge in Fairfax County
Defending against a bigamy charge often hinges on the specific facts and intent. A common defense is a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally terminated through divorce or annulment. In Fairfax County courts, prosecutors must prove you knowingly entered the second marriage while the first was valid. Our team examines all documentation, such as divorce decrees, to challenge the state’s case. We also explore whether the first marriage was void from the beginning.
- Case Assessment: We review all marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and separation agreements to establish the legal status of each union.
- Investigation: Our team investigates the circumstances surrounding both marriages, including the defendant’s belief about the first marriage’s validity.
- Motion Practice: We may file pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence or seek to have charges reduced or dismissed.
- Negotiation or Trial: We pursue negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable resolution or, if necessary, prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Virginia
In Fairfax, a bigamy conviction as a Class 4 felony 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 loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Complex Family and Criminal Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex cases that intersect family law and criminal defense. Mr. Sris, our founding attorney, is a former prosecutor who has personally worked on legislative amendments, bringing a deep understanding of Virginia law to your defense.
Our secondary attorney on this matter is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with extensive experience in Virginia criminal courts. His background provides strategic insight into how the Commonwealth builds its case.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide approach has secured favorable results in thousands of cases. While every case is unique, our team works diligently to achieve the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or acquittal at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Fairfax Bigamy Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location (By appointment only)
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our Fairfax location is centrally located to serve clients throughout Fairfax County and Northern Virginia. We are accessible via major routes like I-66, I-495 (Capital Beltway), and Route 50. If you need a bigamy lawyer near Fairfax City or the Fairfax County Courthouse, we are here to help. We serve communities across Fairfax County, including Annandale, Springfield, and Vienna.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bigamy Charges
Is bigamy always a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-362, bigamy is classified as a Class 4 felony, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a substantial fine.
What is the main defense against a bigamy charge?
It depends. The most common defense is a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally ended. This requires evidence, such as a belief in a final divorce decree. A skilled multiple marriage charge lawyer Fairfax can investigate to support this claim.
Can I be charged if my second marriage was in another state or country?
Yes. Virginia can prosecute if you are a resident or were married in Virginia. The location of the second ceremony does not necessarily prevent charges under Virginia law if the elements of the crime are met.
What should I do if I am under investigation for bigamy?
Immediately contact a bigamy lawyer Fairfax. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can advise you on your rights and begin building your defense.
How does a bigamy charge differ from adultery?
Bigamy involves entering a legally recognized marriage while already married. Adultery is a consensual sexual relationship between a married person and someone not their spouse. Adultery is a Class 4 misdemeanor in Virginia, a much less severe charge than felony bigamy.
Related Pages: For other family law matters, see our Fairfax Divorce Lawyer page. For related criminal defense, visit our Fairfax Criminal Defense Lawyer page. For an overview of our Virginia practice, see our Virginia Family Lawyer hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.