Bigamy lawyer Ocean County, NJ

If you are facing a bigamy accusation in Ocean County, New Jersey, the situation can feel overwhelming. Bigamy is a criminal charge that stems from family law circumstances—entering a marriage while still legally married to another person. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel team understand how these cases affect both your freedom and your family relationships. We represent clients throughout Ocean County, including Toms River, Lakewood, Brick Township, and surrounding communities, with matters heard at the Superior Court of NJ, Ocean Vicinage, 120 Hooper Avenue, Toms River, NJ 08753. Our firm focuses on protecting your rights and working toward a favorable resolution. To discuss your situation and learn how we can help, call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Table of Contents

Understanding Bigamy Law in Ocean County, New Jersey

Bigamy in New Jersey is governed by , which makes it a crime to knowingly enter a marriage while still legally married to another person. The statute also applies to someone who cohabits in New Jersey after a bigamous marriage contracted elsewhere. Because the offense concerns the validity of a marriage, it sits at the intersection of criminal law and family law. A bigamy charge can lead to criminal prosecution, and it also raises questions about the legitimacy of the second marriage—issues that can affect divorce, spousal support, property division, and child custody determinations in the Family Part of the Superior Court.

Ocean County courts have jurisdiction over both criminal and family matters arising from an alleged bigamous marriage. The Superior Court of NJ, Ocean Vicinage handles felony-level criminal charges, while the Chancery Division, Family Part addresses any related divorce, annulment, or custody disputes. Because the two court divisions operate separately but the underlying facts are intertwined, representation by an attorney experienced in both criminal defense and New Jersey family law is important. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel appear in Ocean County courts and work to coordinate the defense and any civil aspects of your case so that one proceeding does not harm the other.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Defend Bigamy Charges

Every bigamy case begins with a thorough review of the facts. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel examine the validity of the first marriage, whether the client knew about any legal impediment at the time of the second marriage, and whether the prosecution can prove the required mental state. In some instances, a prior marriage may have been legally dissolved in another jurisdiction but the paperwork was not properly recorded, or a divorce decree may contain clerical errors. We investigate these details and identify defenses that may lead to a reduction of charges, a dismissal, or an advantageous plea negotiation.

Because a bigamy accusation often surfaces during divorce or custody litigation, we also work to protect your interests in Family Court. A criminal charge can be used against you in a custody dispute or as a factor in equitable distribution. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel handle both the criminal and family law dimensions—appearing in Ocean County Superior Court, Chancery Division – Family Part, and in the Criminal Division—so that your defense strategy is consistent and informed by the realities of both proceedings. We focus on resolving the matter as efficiently as possible while preserving your rights and your relationship with your family.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. A former prosecutor, he founded the firm in 1997 and is admitted to practice in New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. His background gives him insight into how the State builds its case, and he draws on that experience when preparing a defense. Mr. Sris works alongside a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring additional experience in family law and criminal matters, allowing the firm to address both the criminal and civil aspects of a bigamy case for clients in Ocean County and throughout New Jersey.

The Of Counsel attorneys work collaboratively with Mr. Sris on the firm’s cases. Together, the team represents individuals in Superior Court, Family Part, and other New Jersey courts. To speak with Mr. Sris or a member of the team about a bigamy matter in Ocean County, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bigamy under New Jersey law?

Bigamy in New Jersey occurs when a person knowingly marries another while still legally married to a living spouse. The law also applies to someone who cohabits in New Jersey after entering a bigamous marriage outside the state. The prosecution must prove that the accused knew about the prior marriage and its continued legal validity. Because a marriage obtained through fraud or coercion may be voidable, challenges to the first marriage can sometimes form the basis of a defense.

What are the potential consequences of a bigamy conviction in Ocean County?

A bigamy conviction in New Jersey is a crime of the fourth degree, which carries serious consequences including the possibility of incarceration, fines, and a permanent criminal record. In addition to the criminal penalties, a conviction can affect divorce proceedings, child custody, spousal support, and the distribution of marital assets. A judge in Family Court may consider a bigamy conviction as a factor when determining the best interests of a child or the equitable distribution of property. The full impact depends on the specific facts of the case and the court’s discretion.

How does bigamy affect a divorce or custody case in Ocean County?

An allegation of bigamy can influence divorce and custody proceedings because it may affect the validity of the marriage and the court’s assessment of a parent’s fitness. If a marriage is found to be void due to bigamy, the parties may need to proceed with an annulment rather than a divorce, and the court’s authority to divide property or award support may be altered. In custody disputes, a bigamy charge can be introduced as evidence of moral unfitness or instability, though the court must still apply the statutory best-interest factors. Working with an attorney who handles both the criminal and family sides of the case helps ensure that all legal vulnerabilities are addressed.

Do I need a lawyer if I am accused of bigamy in Ocean County?

You are not required to hire a lawyer, but representing yourself in a bigamy case is risky because the charges involve both criminal exposure and significant family law consequences. The State will have a prosecutor presenting evidence and arguing for a conviction. A lawyer can identify weaknesses in the State’s case, negotiate with the prosecution, and guide you through the Family Court proceedings that often accompany a bigamy charge. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel offer confidential consultations to discuss the specifics of your situation and to explain how legal representation can help protect your rights.

What defenses are available in a bigamy case?

Defenses in a bigamy case often focus on the validity of the prior marriage and the accused’s knowledge of its continued legal existence. For example, if a prior divorce was valid but not recorded, or if a spouse obtained a divorce in another country that New Jersey recognizes, the second marriage may be lawful. Lack of knowledge about the spouse’s existing marriage is also a defense, as the statute requires that the accused act knowingly. Other defenses may involve procedural violations, evidentiary challenges, or constitutional arguments. Each case is unique, and a lawyer will evaluate the facts to determine the strongest available defense.

How can I schedule a consultation about a bigamy matter in Ocean County?

To speak with Mr. Sris or a member of the firm’s Of Counsel team, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Consultations are by appointment, and the firm’s New Jersey location serves clients throughout Ocean County and all 21 New Jersey counties. During the initial meeting, we will listen to the details of your situation, answer your questions, and explain the legal options available to you. Our goal is to provide a clear understanding of the path forward so you can make informed decisions about your case.

For related information, you may also find these pages helpful:

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.

For the statewide picture rather than Ocean County alone, continue to bigamy in New Jersey.