Bigamy Lawyer Loudoun 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 face a bigamy charge in Loudoun County, you need a dedicated bigamy lawyer Loudoun County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Bigamy Law and Penalties
In Virginia, bigamy is defined as knowingly marrying another person while a prior marriage is still legally valid. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-362, requires the prosecution to prove you had a “living spouse” at the time of the subsequent marriage. Defenses often hinge on demonstrating a good-faith belief the prior marriage was dissolved by death, divorce, or annulment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Loudoun County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Defending a Bigamy Charge in Loudoun County
A bigamy charge defense lawyer Loudoun County must handle both criminal and family law details. The case is prosecuted in Loudoun County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you knowingly entered the second marriage. A strong defense may involve gathering divorce decrees, death certificates, or evidence of a mistaken belief the prior marriage was invalid. These cases can involve sensitive personal and religious matters, requiring careful, discreet handling.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: We analyze the facts, prior marriage records, and the basis for the charge.
- Evidence Gathering: We secure all relevant documents, such as divorce papers or correspondence showing a belief the marriage was over.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: We develop a defense strategy, which may involve filing motions to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence.
- Negotiation or Trial: We seek a favorable resolution, which could be dismissal or reduction of charges, or prepare for a vigorous trial defense.
Potential Penalties for Bigamy in Virginia
In Loudoun County, a bigamy conviction is a felony carrying 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bigamy | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | Felony record, impact on immigration, professional licenses, and family law matters (e.g., spousal support, inheritance). |
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 “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we provide a full, dedicated defense. Mr. Sris has personally amended Virginia law (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating a deep understanding of how to handle the state’s legal system effectively for our clients.
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
Our Approach to Bigamy Defense
Our defense strategy for a multiple marriage charge lawyer Loudoun County begins with a meticulous review of all marital records. We investigate whether you acted under a good-faith belief that you were free to marry. We also explore whether the prior marriage was void from the beginning. Our team, which includes experienced attorneys like Mr. Sris, works to protect you from the severe collateral consequences of a felony conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bigamy Defense Lawyer Near Loudoun County
Our Ashburn location serves clients at the Loudoun County Circuit Court. We are your local bigamy lawyer near Ashburn, Leesburg, and Sterling. We serve communities across Loudoun County including Purcellville, South Riding, Brambleton, Aldie, Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, and Round Hill.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room No. 403
Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110
By appointment only.
Bigamy Charge Defense FAQs
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 go to jail for bigamy if I didn’t know my first marriage was still valid?
It depends. A valid defense under Va. Code § 18.2-362 is that you had a good-faith belief your prior marriage was legally ended by divorce, annulment, or the death of your spouse. Proving this belief is a key part of the defense strategy.
What court handles bigamy cases in Loudoun County?
Felony bigamy charges are prosecuted in the Loudoun County Circuit Court, located at 18 East Market Street in Leesburg, after an initial hearing in General District Court.
How can a bigamy charge defense lawyer Loudoun County help me?
A lawyer can investigate the validity of your prior marriage, gather evidence of your good-faith belief, challenge the prosecution’s case, negotiate for dismissal or reduced charges, and provide a strong defense at trial to avoid a felony conviction.
Does a bigamy charge affect a divorce or custody case?
Yes. A bigamy charge or conviction can significantly impact related family court proceedings, potentially affecting judgments on marital fault, spousal support, and even parental fitness in custody disputes.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
This Loudoun County page supplements our statewide discussion of bigamy in Virginia.