Shenandoah Bigamy Lawyer — What Are the Defenses to a Bigamy Charge?
Bigamy in Shenandoah, Virginia, is a Class 4 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-362, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If you are accused of bigamy, you need a dedicated bigamy lawyer from the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Our family law help includes defending against these serious domestic relations charges.
Virginia’s Bigamy Law and Penalties
Bigamy is the act of marrying someone while still legally married to another person. In Virginia, this offense is taken very seriously. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-362, classifies bigamy as a felony. A conviction can have severe, long-lasting consequences beyond incarceration, affecting employment, housing, and family relationships. A family court lawyer understands that these charges often intersect with divorce proceedings and child custody disputes, making skilled representation essential.
Last verified: April 2026 | Shenandoah County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s bigamy statute, refer to the Virginia Law website. For local court procedures and filing information, visit the Shenandoah County Circuit Court website. These .gov resources provide the foundational legal information for your case.
Handling a Bigamy Case in Shenandoah County
Bigamy charges in Shenandoah County typically originate when a second marriage license application reveals an existing, undissolved marriage. Prosecutors must prove you had a living spouse at the time of the subsequent marriage. A common defense involves a good-faith belief that the first marriage was legally terminated, such as through a divorce decree you believed was final. An experienced domestic relations lawyer can investigate the circumstances of your prior marriage to build this defense.
- Secure immediate legal counsel before making any statements to authorities.
- Your attorney will obtain certified records of all prior marriages and divorce decrees.
- Your lawyer will analyze whether you had a reasonable belief your first marriage was dissolved.
- Your family attorney will develop a defense strategy, which may involve negotiating for a reduction to a lesser charge or case dismissal.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Virginia
In Shenandoah, a bigamy conviction is a felony with 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 felony record, impact on child custody, professional licensing issues. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Family and Criminal Law
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex cases like bigamy, which sits at the intersection of family and criminal law. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who has personally worked on amending Virginia family law statutes. We understand the delicate balance required to protect your parental rights while mounting a strong criminal defense.
Legal Guidance for Your Case
If you are under investigation or have been charged with bigamy, it is crucial to act quickly. Our firm provides strategic defense focused on the specific facts of your situation. We examine marriage records, divorce filings, and your intent at the time of the second marriage. Mr. Sris, our firm founder with extensive experience across multiple jurisdictions, supports complex case strategy. We work to protect you from the severe penalties associated with a felony conviction.
Contact Our Shenandoah County Bigamy Lawyers
Our firm is accessible to clients in Shenandoah and the surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for urgent matters.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
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We serve clients in Shenandoah, Strasburg, Woodstock, and throughout Shenandoah County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bigamy a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Bigamy is classified as a Class 4 felony under Virginia law (Va. 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.
What is a common defense to a bigamy charge?
It depends. The most common defense is a good-faith belief that the first marriage was legally ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of the spouse. Your attorney must gather evidence, like a faulty divorce decree, to support this claim.
Can I go to jail for bigamy if my second spouse knew I was married?
Yes. The knowledge or consent of the second spouse is not a legal defense to the charge of bigamy in Virginia. The offense is complete when the second marriage ceremony is performed while the first marriage is legally valid.
Do I need a family attorney or a criminal lawyer for bigamy?
You need a lawyer experienced in both areas. Bigamy is a criminal felony charge, but it directly involves family law issues like marriage validity and divorce decrees. A firm like ours with strength in both practices is essential.
What should I do if I am accused of bigamy?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Second, contact a bigamy lawyer immediately. An attorney will secure all marriage and divorce records and advise you on the best path forward to protect your rights.
Related Legal Services: If you are dealing with related family law issues, our firm also provides assistance with divorce, child custody, and criminal defense in Shenandoah. For help in other areas, see our Virginia family law hub or our page for a bigamy lawyer in Frederick County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding bigamy charges in Shenandoah, Virginia.