Bigamy (O.C.G.A. § 16-6-20)
Understanding Bigamy Under Georgia Law
Bigamy, considered a serious offense in Georgia, is defined in O.C.G.A. § 16-6-20. This law prohibits any married person from entering into another marriage before the previous one is legally dissolved. Understanding the specifics of this law is crucial for anyone facing bigamy charges.
O.C.G.A. § 16-6-20: A person commits the offense of bigamy when, being married, he voluntarily cohabits or has sexual intercourse with a person other than his spouse in this state or elsewhere.
Punishments for Bigamy in Georgia
In Georgia, bigamy is classified as a felony. The penalty for a conviction can range from one to ten years in prison. This reflects the state’s commitment to uphold the sanctity of marital vows and the legal responsibilities that come with them.
Defense Strategies in Bigamy Cases
Defense against bigamy charges often revolves around demonstrating the lack of knowledge of the first marriage’s validity or contesting the validity of the subsequent marriage. Each case requires a detailed examination of the circumstances and the evidence presented.
Bigamy Laws: Georgia vs. Other States
While Georgia treats bigamy as a felony with potential prison time, laws and penalties vary across different states. Some states may impose less severe penalties, treating bigamy as a misdemeanor or focusing on civil remedies.
Legal Representation for Bigamy Charges
Facing bigamy charges in Georgia can be daunting. At Watson Law LLC, we provide expert legal representation to navigate these complex charges. Attorney Zakiya Watson-Caffe, Esq. and her team are dedicated to offering the best defense strategies tailored to your unique situation.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know is facing bigamy charges, it’s important to seek legal assistance immediately. Contact Watson Law LLC for a consultation. Our team, led by attorney Zakiya Watson-Caffe, Esq., is ready to provide the expert legal support you need. Learn more about our firm and our approach to criminal defense on our About Us page.
