Bigamy Defense Lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia
Bigamy, the act of marrying someone while still legally married to another person, 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 serious charges in Hanover County, you need a dedicated bigamy lawyer Hanover Virginia. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
In Virginia, bigamy is defined by statute as marrying another person when you know your spouse from a prior marriage is still alive, unless you reasonably believe your prior marriage was dissolved by death, divorce, or annulment. The law also covers situations where you enter a marriage knowing the other person is already legally married. This is a serious criminal offense, not just a civil family law matter. A conviction can result in a permanent felony record, incarceration, and significant social stigma.
The prosecution must prove you had the requisite knowledge of the existing marriage. Defenses often focus on this element, such as demonstrating a good-faith belief that a divorce was finalized or that a former spouse was deceased. handling these defenses requires a thorough investigation and strategic legal argument.
- Secure immediate legal representation from a bigamy lawyer Hanover Virginia before speaking to investigators.
- Your attorney will gather all marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and death certificates related to all marriages in question.
- Your lawyer will analyze the evidence to identify potential defenses, such as a good-faith belief or an invalid prior marriage.
- Your attorney will engage in pre-trial negotiations with the Hanover County Commonwealth’s Attorney, seeking dismissal or reduction of charges where possible.
- If the case proceeds, your lawyer will prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Hanover County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Bigamy in Virginia
In Hanover County, a bigamy conviction is a Class 4 felony carrying 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of 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 | Permanent felony record, impact on child custody, immigration status, professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Hanover County Family and Criminal Law
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in complex cases involving both family law and criminal defense elements, such as bigamy. We understand that these charges sit at a difficult intersection—they are prosecuted as crimes but have deep roots in domestic relations. Our approach is to provide full representation that addresses both the immediate criminal jeopardy and the underlying family law issues.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients across Virginia. In Hanover County and surrounding areas, we use our deep understanding of local court procedures to build strong defenses. While every case is unique, our systematic approach focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence and protecting our clients’ rights at every stage. Mr. Sris, our firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex matters, drawing on his experience as a former prosecutor and his role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bigamy Lawyer Hanover Virginia | Contact Our Richmond Office
Our Richmond location serves clients in Hanover County, including Mechanicsville, Ashland, and Atlee. We are accessible via I-95 and Route 301.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (804) 377-1525
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bigamy Charges in Virginia
Is bigamy a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Bigamy is classified as a Class 4 felony under Virginia 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, along with a permanent criminal record.
What is the main defense against a bigamy charge?
It depends, but a common defense is a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of the former spouse. A skilled bigamy lawyer Hanover Virginia will work to gather documentation like divorce decrees to support this defense and challenge the prosecution’s case.
Can a family attorney handle a bigamy case?
Yes. Because bigamy involves the validity of marriages—a core family law issue—a family attorney with experience in both domestic relations and criminal defense is well-suited to handle these cases. They can address the underlying marital status questions while defending against the criminal charges.
Where are bigamy cases heard in Hanover County?
Felony bigamy cases are prosecuted in the Hanover County Circuit Court. The process typically begins with a warrant or indictment, followed by arraignment and pre-trial hearings. Having a family court lawyer familiar with this venue is crucial for handling the process effectively.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy?
First, do not speak to law enforcement or prosecutors without an attorney. Second, immediately contact a domestic relations lawyer who handles criminal defense. Third, begin locating all documents related to your current and prior marriages, including certificates and divorce papers, for your legal team.
Useful Resources: Review the official Virginia bigamy statute, Va. Code § 18.2-362. For local court procedures, visit the Hanover County Circuit Court website.
Related Pages: For other legal needs in Hanover County, see our pages for criminal defense and divorce and family law. For a broader view of our sex crimes defense practice, visit our Virginia sex crimes defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.