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Three's a crowd

Question

I am legally married in the UK and I'm legally married to someone else in the United States. Is that bigamy? If it is, what will happen to me?

Answer

The simple answer is yes, this would be considered to be bigamy. In the USA each state has its own laws on this subject and therefore its own punishment. If you get married in the UK and are already legally married (even if you got married elsewhere), the marriage would be considered to be bigamous and is therefore void. Although it is a criminal offence to marry someone when you are already married, prosecution is not automatic.

As you are in a bigamous marriage you should seek legal advice. If you have difficulties finding someone suitable, an adviser at your local Citizens Advice Bureau may be able to help you find a specialist solicitor.

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