Bigamy Lawyer St Marys County — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy, the act of entering into a marriage while still legally married to another person, is a serious criminal offense in Maryland. In St. Mary’s County, a bigamy charge is prosecuted under Md. Code, Criminal Law Art. § 10-501 and can result in significant penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Understanding Maryland’s Bigamy Law
In Maryland, bigamy is defined by statute. A person may not marry another while a prior marriage is still legally valid, unless the prior marriage has been annulled or dissolved by death, divorce, or a court order declaring it void. The law also addresses situations where a person remarries believing in good faith that a former spouse is dead. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has extensive experience handling these complex legal definitions.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s bigamy statute, refer to Md. Code, Criminal Law Art. § 10-501 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court proceedings for bigamy charges in St. Mary’s County are handled at the District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County located at 23110 Leonard Hall Drive, Leonardtown.
Local Defense Strategy for Bigamy Charges
Defending against a bigamy charge in St. Mary’s County requires a case-specific approach. A key local procedural fact is that prosecutors must prove you knowingly entered the second marriage while aware the first was still legally binding. A strong defense often hinges on challenging this knowledge element or presenting a valid defense, such as a good-faith belief in the death of a former spouse. The State’s Attorney for St. Mary’s County handles these prosecutions, making early and strategic intervention by a bigamy charge defense lawyer St. Mary’s County essential.
- Secure immediate legal counsel before making any statements.
- Gather all marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and annulment documents.
- Your attorney will file necessary motions and challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent.
- Prepare for potential plea negotiations or trial based on the strength of the defense.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Maryland
In St. Mary’s County, a bigamy conviction is a misdemeanor carrying a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Court discretion | Invalidation of subsequent marriage, impact on child custody, immigration status. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Founded in 1997, our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we provide full representation, carefully examining every detail of your situation to build the strongest possible defense against a multiple marriage charge lawyer St. Mary’s County might face.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While every case is unique, our firm’s approach is consistent. We have achieved favorable outcomes in complex criminal matters across Maryland. For instance, our team has secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in serious charges. In St. Mary’s County, we apply this rigorous defense strategy to bigamy cases, working to protect your rights and future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Representation in St. Mary’s County
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout St. Mary’s County, including Leonardtown, Lexington Park, California, Great Mills, Hollywood, and Mechanicsville. If you need a bigamy lawyer St Marys County, we are accessible.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bigamy Charges
What is the penalty for bigamy in Maryland?
Bigamy is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine. The specific penalty depends on the case details and the court’s discretion.
Can I be charged with bigamy if I didn’t know my first marriage was still valid?
It depends. A valid defense to a bigamy charge is a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of your spouse. Proving this belief often requires documentation and legal argument from your attorney.
Does a bigamy charge affect child custody cases?
Yes. A bigamy conviction can be used as evidence regarding moral character in child custody proceedings, potentially impacting a judge’s decision. It is crucial to address the criminal charge proactively.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Second, contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Third, begin locating all relevant marriage, divorce, or death certificates for your legal team to review.
Is the second marriage considered valid if bigamy is proven?
No. A marriage entered into while a prior marriage is still legally valid is typically considered void from the beginning under Maryland law.
St. Mary’s County cases are handled by our Maryland bigamy practice, where the whole process is set out.