Bigamy Lawyer Chesterfield County — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy, the act of entering into a marriage while still legally married to another person, is a Class 4 felony in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2-362, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison. If you are facing a bigamy charge in Chesterfield County, securing a skilled bigamy lawyer Chesterfield County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
In Virginia, bigamy is defined by statute as marrying another person when you know your spouse from a prior marriage is still alive, unless you reasonably believe the prior marriage was dissolved by death, divorce, or annulment. The prosecution must prove you had the specific intent to enter into a second, unlawful marriage. A conviction is a serious felony with long-term consequences beyond incarceration, including damage to reputation and family relationships.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-362 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court proceedings for felony bigamy charges begin in the Chesterfield County General District Court for preliminary hearings before potentially moving to Circuit Court.
Defense Strategy for a Bigamy Charge in Chesterfield County
A bigamy charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County must investigate the specific facts of your case. Common defenses include a good-faith belief that the first marriage was legally terminated, lack of knowledge that the first spouse was still alive, or challenges to the validity of the first marriage itself. In Chesterfield County, prosecutors must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Case Assessment: We review all marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and separation agreements to establish the legal timeline.
- Investigation: Our team investigates the circumstances surrounding both marriages to identify potential defenses.
- Negotiation: We engage with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges where evidence supports a defense.
- Trial Preparation: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial, challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Virginia
In Chesterfield County, a bigamy conviction is a Class 4 felony carrying a 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 | Felony record, damage to personal and professional reputation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the sensitive nature of bigamy charges and provide discreet, determined representation focused on protecting your future.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our approach is grounded in a thorough defense. For instance, our team has successfully defended against charges by demonstrating a client’s reasonable belief that a prior marriage was annulled. In another case, we challenged the validity of service of process in an out-of-state divorce, skilled to a favorable outcome.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Bigamy Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesterfield County, including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 360.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Bigamy Defense FAQs for Chesterfield County
What is the penalty for bigamy in Virginia?
Bigamy is a Class 4 felony in Virginia, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
Can I be charged with bigamy if I didn’t know my first marriage was still valid?
It depends. A key defense is proving you had a good-faith, reasonable belief that the first marriage was legally ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of your spouse. The prosecution must prove you knowingly entered into the second marriage while still legally married.
What should I do if I am charged with a multiple marriage charge in Chesterfield County?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a multiple marriage charge lawyer Chesterfield County. An attorney can secure your rights, investigate the validity of all marriages involved, and begin building your defense strategy.
Does a bigamy charge always go to trial?
No. Many cases are resolved through negotiation if a strong defense exists. An experienced bigamy lawyer Chesterfield County can often present evidence to the prosecutor that may lead to a reduction or dismissal of charges before a trial is necessary.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer page or our state hub for Virginia sex crime defense lawyers. We also serve neighboring areas like Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For readers whose matter arises elsewhere in Virginia, the statewide page covers bigamy.