Bigamy lawyer Essex County, VA
If you are seeking a bigamy lawyer in Essex County, Virginia, you may be dealing with a complex intersection of criminal charges and family law consequences. Bigamy—entering into a marriage while still married to another person—is a serious offense under Virginia law and can render a subsequent marriage void. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced family law since 1997 and brings extensive combined legal experience with the firm’s Of Counsel to clients facing bigamy-related matters in Essex County. Whether you need to annul a void marriage, address property division, or defend against criminal allegations, the firm’s Richmond location serves residents of Tappahannock, Dunnsville, Center Cross and throughout Essex County. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
What Bigamy Means in Essex County, Virginia
Under Virginia Code § 18.2-362, bigamy occurs when a person who is already legally married enters into another marriage. A bigamous marriage is void from the beginning, meaning it has no legal effect. This has far-reaching implications for property rights, spousal support, and child custody. In Essex County, matters arising from a bigamous relationship—such as annulment actions, property disputes, and custody determinations—are heard in the Essex County Circuit Court, located at 300 Prince Street in Tappahannock. The Essex County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court also handles related custody and support issues. The firm’s Richmond location serves clients throughout Essex County, including Tappahannock, Dunnsville, and Center Cross.
Because bigamy is a criminal felony, an individual accused of bigamy in Essex County may face prosecution in the Circuit Court. A conviction can lead to incarceration, fines, and a permanent criminal record. A void marriage also means that neither spouse can claim an interest in property acquired during the relationship under Virginia’s equitable distribution laws, and no spousal support obligation arises from the void marriage itself, though financial support for children will still be determined. Children born during a void marriage are generally considered legitimate under Virginia law, so custody and support are handled in the same manner as any other family law matter.
Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands how these cases are built and can anticipate the prosecution’s approach. The firm’s Of Counsel, with combined experience in criminal defense and family law, work together to protect your rights and pursue a resolution that minimizes the impact on your family and future.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Handle Bigamy Cases
When you contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., you will speak with a member of our team who will listen to the details of your situation. Whether you are seeking an annulment, defending against a bigamy charge, or need to resolve financial and custody matters, we begin by analyzing all relevant facts: the dates of each marriage, the validity of any divorces, and the potential consequences under Virginia law. The firm represents clients, drawing on his extensive experience as both a family law practitioner and a former prosecutor.
Our process begins with a thorough consultation. We review marriage records, divorce decrees, and any evidence of cohabitation. If you are pursuing an annulment, we prepare the complaint, serve the other party, and attend all court hearings. In criminal matters, we evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s case, identify possible motions to suppress, and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal where appropriate. Because bigamy cases often involve parallel family court and criminal court proceedings, having a team that understands both makes a difference. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and work toward favorable outcomes. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris founded Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 1997 and has practiced family law and criminal defense for decades. He is a former prosecutor who testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The Firm’s Of Counsel team includes attorneys with experience in family law, criminal trials, and civil litigation. Mr. Sris has represented clients in Virginia courts for decades, and his prosecutorial background provides insight into how the government builds criminal cases, including bigamy charges. Together, the team brings extensive combined legal experience. Mr. Sris is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He speaks English and Tamil, and the firm can assist clients in those languages. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bigamy under Virginia law?
Bigamy occurs when a person who is already legally married enters into a new marriage with another person, as defined in Va. Code § 18.2-362. The second marriage is void from the start, and the act constitutes a felony offense. A person who reasonably believes their spouse is dead or that a prior marriage has been dissolved may have a defense, but the circumstances of each case matter. In Essex County, both the criminal and civil consequences are adjudicated in the Circuit Court.
Can a bigamous marriage be annulled in Essex County?
Yes, a bigamous marriage can be annulled because it is void from the outset. An annulment proceeding in Essex County Circuit Court establishes that the marriage never legally existed. This may affect property division and spousal support claims. The firm can assist by preparing and filing the required petition and representing you at any hearings. Contact us to discuss your situation.
What should I do if I am accused of bigamy in Virginia?
If you are facing bigamy charges, the first step is to exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement without counsel. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we can review the allegations, examine any alleged marriage records, and build a defense based on lack of intent, reasonable belief, or procedural errors. Early legal guidance can make a significant difference.
How does bigamy affect child custody and support?
Child custody and support are determined based on the best interests of the child, regardless of the validity of the parents’ marriage. A bigamous marriage does not automatically affect parental rights, but the court may consider the circumstances of the relationship when evaluating factors such as stability and fitness. The Essex County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court has jurisdiction over these matters. A family law attorney can help you present your case effectively. India is not a signatory to the 1980 Hague Convention on Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.
What are the potential legal consequences of bigamy in Virginia?
Bigamy is prosecuted as a felony and can result in imprisonment, a fine, and a permanent criminal record. Additionally, any property acquired during the void marriage may not be subject to equitable distribution as marital property. The accused may also face civil liability. Because of the complexity, legal representation is strongly advised. Our firm handles both the defense of criminal charges and the resolution of related family law matters.
How can a lawyer help if I discover my spouse committed bigamy?
An attorney can assist by filing an annulment, seeking a declaration that the marriage is void, and addressing any property or custody concerns that arise. You may also want to consider reporting the offense to local law enforcement. The firm can guide you through the legal options available in Essex County and help protect your interests. To schedule a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
Related family law resources:
Family Law Practice in Virginia |
Family Law Lawyer in Richmond, VA |
Family Law Lawyer in Henrico County |
Family Law Lawyer in Chesterfield County
For official legal references, consult:
Va. Code § 18.2-362 (Bigamy) |
Essex County Circuit Court |
Virginia’s Judicial System
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