Morris County Bigamy Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Bigamy, entering a marriage while still legally married to another person, is a serious crime in New Jersey. A bigamy charge in Morris County can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential jail time. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for those facing bigamy charges.
Understanding New Jersey Bigamy Laws
In New Jersey, bigamy is defined under N.J. Stat. § 2C:24-1, which addresses bigamy and polygamy. The statute makes it a crime to marry or purport to marry another person when you know you have a living spouse from a prior marriage that has not been legally dissolved by death, divorce, or annulment. The law also criminalizes going through a marriage ceremony with someone you know is already legally married. This is a distinct charge from adultery and is treated as a criminal offense rather than a civil matter.
Last verified: April 2026 | Morris County Superior Court | New Jersey Legislature
The firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, brings a strategic understanding of how the state builds these cases. A conviction can have lasting consequences beyond the court’s sentence, affecting reputation, employment, and family relationships.
Official Legal Resources
For the precise language of the law, you can review the official statute: N.J. Stat. § 2C:24-1 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures and filing information, visit the Morris County Superior Court website.
The Morris County Court Process for a Bigamy Charge
Facing a bigamy charge in Morris County typically begins with a complaint or indictment. These cases are heard in the Superior Court, Criminal Division, in Morristown. The prosecution must prove you knowingly entered a second marriage while a prior marriage was legally valid. A common defense involves challenging the validity of the first marriage or demonstrating a lack of criminal intent, such as a good-faith belief that a divorce was final.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution and conduct an independent investigation into both marriages.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if the state’s case has legal flaws.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable resolution or prepare for trial.
- Sentencing (if applicable): If a conviction occurs, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in New Jersey
In Morris County, a bigamy conviction is a crime of the fourth degree, punishable by up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Crime of the 4th Degree | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Criminal record, social stigma, potential impact on child custody or immigration status. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. operates with the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders.” Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand that a bigamy charge is more than a legal issue—it’s a personal crisis. We approach each case with discretion and a determined focus on achieving a favorable result, whether through negotiation or litigation.
Our Approach to Bigamy Charge Defense
We build a defense by meticulously examining the evidence. Was the first marriage legally valid? Was there a final divorce decree? Did our client have a reasonable belief they were free to marry? We gather documents, interview witnesses, and consult professionals when necessary. Our goal is to create reasonable doubt about an essential element of the crime, such as intent or the validity of a prior marriage. In many cases, this leads to a reduction or dismissal of charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Morris County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our firm is positioned to defend clients throughout Morris County, including those near the Morris County Courthouse in Morristown, and in communities like Parsippany, Dover, Madison, and Morristown. As a dedicated bigamy charge defense lawyer Morris County, we are familiar with the local prosecutors and court procedures. We offer 24/7 phone availability for urgent matters.
Frequently Asked Questions (Bigamy Charges)
Is bigamy a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. Bigamy is classified as a crime of the fourth degree in New Jersey, which is indictable and equivalent to a felony in other states. It is prosecuted in Superior Court, not municipal court.
What is the main defense against a bigamy charge?
It depends. Common defenses include proving a good-faith belief that the first marriage was legally ended (e.g., relying on a faulty divorce decree), demonstrating the first marriage was void from the start, or challenging the prosecution’s evidence that you knowingly entered a second marriage.
Can I be charged if my second marriage was in another state?
Yes. New Jersey authorities can prosecute you if you are a resident or if part of the offense occurred within the state. A multiple marriage charge lawyer Morris County can analyze the jurisdictional issues in your specific case.
What is the difference between bigamy and polygamy?
Bigamy specifically refers to the act of marrying one person while still legally married to another. Polygamy is the practice or condition of having more than one spouse simultaneously, which includes bigamy. Both are illegal under New Jersey law.
Should I speak to the police if I’m under investigation?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and contact a bigamy lawyer Morris County as early as possible. Anything you say can be used to build the case against you.
Your case in Morris County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Morris County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Morris Vicinage (14th Vicinage), Washington & Court Streets, Morristown, NJ 07960, telephone (973) 656-4000, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Morris County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Morris County NJ lawyers directory · Bigamy Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Bigamy Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Monmouth County NJ Bigamy Lawyer.