Bigamy Lawyer Passaic County — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy, entering into a marriage while still legally married to another person, is a serious criminal offense in New Jersey. A bigamy lawyer Passaic County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these charges, which are prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:24-1. Our firm, founded in 1997, has extensive experience handling sensitive criminal matters in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Passaic Vicinage.
Understanding Bigamy Charges in New Jersey
In New Jersey, bigamy is classified as a crime of the fourth degree under statute N.J.S.A. 2C:24-1. The law prohibits knowingly marrying or purporting to marry another person when you have a living spouse from a prior marriage that has not been legally dissolved by death, divorce, or annulment. The prosecution must prove you had the specific intent to enter the second marriage while knowing the first was still valid.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Passaic Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see N.J.S.A. 2C:24-1 (official New Jersey Legislature site). Court procedures and filing information can be found at the Passaic Vicinage Superior Court website.
Local Defense Strategy in Passaic County
Defending a bigamy charge requires a detailed examination of the validity of the prior marriage and your knowledge of its status. In Passaic County, these cases are heard in the Superior Court, Criminal Division. A common defense involves demonstrating a good-faith belief that the first marriage was legally terminated, perhaps due to a faulty divorce decree or misinformation.
- Case Assessment: We immediately review all marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and annulment documents to verify the legal status of prior unions.
- Investigate Intent: We gather evidence, including communications and witness statements, to build a case around your belief regarding the first marriage’s validity.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We may file motions to dismiss or suppress evidence if the charge lacks a proper factual basis or if your rights were violated during the investigation.
- Negotiation: We engage with the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office to seek a reduction or diversion program, aiming to avoid the most severe penalties.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous trial defense focused on reasonable doubt regarding your knowledge and intent.
Potential Penalties for a Bigamy Conviction
In Passaic County, a fourth-degree bigamy conviction carries a potential state prison sentence, significant fines, and lasting collateral consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Crime of the 4th Degree | Up to 18 months in New Jersey State Prison | Up to $10,000 | Permanent criminal record, impact on immigration status, potential loss of professional licenses, social stigma. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a documented history of favorable outcomes, our firm brings substantial resources to your defense. Our managing attorney, Mr. Sris, maintains a multi-state practice and accepts a limited number of contested cases to ensure deep, personal involvement in each client’s strategy.
Our Approach to Bigamy Charge Defense
When you face a multiple marriage charge lawyer Passaic County trust, our defense begins with a meticulous factual investigation. We look for errors in the state’s case, such as an invalid prior marriage, a legal annulment you were unaware of, or a lack of evidence proving you knew the first marriage was binding. We understand the significant personal and legal ramifications of a bigamy charge and work to protect your future, reputation, and freedom.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bigamy Lawyer Near Passaic County
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Passaic County, including Paterson, Clifton, Wayne, and Passaic City. We are accessible via I-80, Route 46, and Route 23. If you need a bigamy charge defense lawyer Passaic County residents rely on, contact us for a confidential consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bigamy a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. Bigamy is classified as a crime of the fourth degree in New Jersey, which is an indictable offense commonly referred to as a felony.
What is the best defense against a bigamy charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include a good-faith belief that the first marriage was legally ended, that the first marriage was void from the start, or that the prosecution cannot prove you knew the first spouse was still alive and the marriage valid.
Can I go to jail for bigamy in Passaic County?
Yes. A conviction for a fourth-degree crime in New Jersey carries a potential sentence of up to 18 months in state prison, though other outcomes like probation are possible.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a bigamy lawyer Passaic County like those at SRIS, P.C. We will protect your rights, analyze the state’s evidence, and begin building your defense strategy.
How long does a bigamy case take?
The timeline varies. A case in Passaic County Superior Court can take several months to over a year to resolve, depending on the issues in dispute, evidence, and whether it proceeds to trial or is resolved through negotiation.
Related Legal Services in Passaic County
If you are facing other legal challenges, our firm also provides representation for business law, federal criminal defense, and DUI charges in Passaic County. For a full list of our New Jersey services, visit our New Jersey civil litigation hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Your case in Passaic 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 Passaic County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Passaic Vicinage (11th Vicinage), 77 Hamilton Street, Paterson, NJ 07505, telephone (973) 247-8000, 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 Passaic 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: Passaic County NJ lawyers directory · Bigamy Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Bigamy Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Monmouth County NJ Bigamy Lawyer.