Bigamy Lawyer Alexandria — Defending Against Multiple Marriage Charges
Bigamy, the act of marrying someone 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 face this charge in Alexandria, you need a dedicated bigamy lawyer Alexandria from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
In Virginia, bigamy is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-362. A person commits bigamy if they marry another person while their spouse from a prior marriage is still living, unless they reasonably believe the prior spouse is dead or the prior marriage has been legally dissolved. The statute is strict, and even a mistaken belief about a divorce’s finality may not be a complete defense without strong evidence. This is a serious felony charge that requires immediate attention from a skilled bigamy charge defense lawyer Alexandria.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-362 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court proceedings for felony bigamy charges begin in Alexandria General District Court for preliminary hearings before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
Defense Strategy for Alexandria Bigamy Cases
Defending a bigamy charge requires a detailed investigation. A key local procedural fact in Alexandria is that the Commonwealth’s Attorney will scrutinize marriage records and divorce decrees from any jurisdiction. The defense must gather all marital documents, proof of divorce filings, and evidence supporting a good-faith belief that a prior marriage was terminated. In Alexandria Circuit Court, which handles all felony trials, negotiations often focus on the intent element of the crime.
- Secure immediate legal representation before making any statements.
- Gather all marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and separation agreements.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to review the prosecution’s evidence.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may involve proving a reasonable belief the prior marriage was dissolved.
- Attend the preliminary hearing in Alexandria General District Court.
- Prepare for potential trial or negotiate a resolution in Alexandria Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Alexandria
In Alexandria, a bigamy conviction is a Class 4 felony carrying 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy (Va. Code § 18.2-362) | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent criminal record, impact on immigration status, potential loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Bigamy Defense Team
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 track includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the high stakes of a felony charge in Alexandria and provide a focused, evidence-driven defense.
Case Results in Sex Crime Defense
Our attorneys have a history of achieving favorable outcomes in sensitive criminal matters. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. For instance, in a Bedford County case involving multiple felony computer solicitation charges, our team successfully argued for bond reinstatement and later negotiated a reduced amended charge. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. We are accessible for appointments to defend against bigamy and other serious charges in Alexandria courts.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bigamy Charges in Alexandria
Is bigamy a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Bigamy is classified as a Class 4 felony under Virginia law (Va. Code § 18.2-362), punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
What is a common defense to a bigamy charge?
It depends. A common defense is that the defendant had a reasonable, good-faith belief that their prior marriage was legally terminated by death or divorce. Success requires strong documentary evidence, such as a believed-final divorce decree, to support that belief.
Can I be charged with bigamy if my second marriage was in another state?
Yes. Virginia can prosecute you for bigamy if you are a Virginia resident or if any element of the offense (like cohabitation) occurs in Virginia, regardless of where the second marriage ceremony took place.
What should I do if I am charged with bigamy?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Second, immediately contact a qualified multiple marriage charge lawyer Alexandria. Third, begin locating all marriage and divorce documents. An attorney can protect your rights and begin building your defense.
How can a bigamy lawyer Alexandria from SRIS, P.C. help?
A bigamy lawyer Alexandria from our firm will investigate the facts, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, explore all legal defenses, and advocate for the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or defense at trial.
Internal Links: For more on our criminal defense practice, see our Alexandria criminal defense lawyer page. For related family law matters, visit our Alexandria divorce lawyer page. Learn about our firm’s statewide practice on our Virginia sex crime defense lawyer hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.