Bigamy Lawyer Washington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Bigamy, the act of entering into a marriage while still legally married to another person, is a crime in New York under Penal Law § 255.15. A conviction in Washington County can result in a Class E felony record, up to 4 years in prison, and significant social consequences.
Last verified: April 2026 | Washington County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Understanding New York Bigamy Law
In New York, bigamy is defined by Penal Law § 255.15. The statute makes it a crime to contract or purport to contract a marriage with another person when you know you have a living spouse, or when the other person has a living spouse, from whom a divorce has not been granted. The prosecution must prove you had the requisite knowledge of the existing, undissolved marriage. Defenses often hinge on this element of knowledge, such as a good-faith belief the prior marriage was legally terminated.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to New York Penal Law § 255.15 (official New York State Senate site). Court procedures for felony cases in Washington County are handled by the Washington County Supreme Court.
Local Defense Strategy for a Bigamy Charge in Washington County
A bigamy charge defense lawyer Washington County must handle both the legal elements and the unique procedures of the local court. In Washington County, felony charges like bigamy typically proceed through a grand jury indictment in Supreme Court. The social stigma attached to the charge can influence plea negotiations. An experienced multiple marriage charge lawyer Washington County will investigate whether you had a genuine belief the prior marriage was void, such as due to an invalid foreign divorce decree or misinformation.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss all facts of both marriages, including dates, locations, and any divorce proceedings.
- Evidence Review: Your attorney will obtain and scrutinize all marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and related documents for validity.
- Investigation: Build a defense focusing on your knowledge and intent at the time of the second marriage.
- Pre-Indictment Negotiations: Engage with the District Attorney’s office before formal charges are filed to potentially avoid indictment.
- Trial Preparation: If necessary, prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Washington County Supreme Court.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in New York
In Washington County, bigamy is prosecuted as a Class E felony, carrying severe penalties that extend beyond the courtroom.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy (Penal Law § 255.15) | Class E Felony | Up to 4 years | Up to $5,000 | Felony criminal record, potential immigration consequences, impact on professional licenses, social stigma. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Bigamy Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex criminal defense matters like bigamy. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand that a bigamy charge is not just a legal issue but a deeply personal one, and we provide a discreet, strategic defense focused on protecting your future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While we maintain a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with a high rate of favorable outcomes, we tailor our defense to the specifics of your Washington County bigamy case. Our approach involves a meticulous review of all marital documents and a defense built on the specific facts of your situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyer Serving Washington County, NY
Our New York location serves clients facing charges in Washington County courts, including those in Fort Edward, Hudson Falls, Greenwich, Cambridge, Granville, Salem, Whitehall, and Kingsbury. We are accessible via I-87, I-90, and other major routes.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Buffalo, New York 14202 Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bigamy Charges in Washington County
Is bigamy always a felony in New York?
Yes. Under NY Penal Law § 255.15, bigamy is classified as a Class E felony, regardless of the circumstances.
What is the most common defense against a bigamy charge?
It depends, but a frequent defense is a good-faith belief that the prior marriage was legally dissolved. If you reasonably believed a divorce was final or that the first marriage was invalid, this can negate the “knowingly” element required for conviction.
Can I be charged with bigamy if my second marriage was in another state or country?
Yes. New York law can apply if you are a resident or are found within the state. A bigamy charge defense lawyer Washington County can analyze jurisdictional issues and the validity of foreign divorces as part of your defense.
What should I do if I am under investigation for bigamy?
Immediately contact a multiple marriage charge lawyer Washington County. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Begin gathering all marriage and divorce documents for your lawyer to review.
Does a bigamy charge affect child custody or divorce proceedings?
It can. A criminal conviction, especially for an offense involving dishonesty like bigamy, may be used by the other party in family court to question your character and fitness in custody or financial disputes.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our New York Sex Crime Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Albany County and Broome County. If you have related legal needs in Washington County, consider our services for business law or DUI defense. Learn more about Mr. Sris’s background and approach.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.