What is Bigamy? - Ryan Besinque

From The Law Office of Ryan Besinque - What Is Bigamy? breaks down how New York law defines bigamy, when a second marriage becomes legally void, and why these cases can trigger both criminal and family law consequences. This episode explores New York Penal Law § 255.15, the meaning of a Class E felony, the difference between bigamy and polygamy, and how an undissolved prior marriage can affect annulment, divorce, custody, support, and property issues across Manhattan and New York City.

The conversation highlights the penalties tied to bigamy, including the potential for up to four years in prison, related misdemeanor offenses under Penal Law § 255.10 and § 255.00, and the five-year statute of limitations under CPL § 30.10. It also examines the affirmative defense under Penal Law § 255.20, including situations where someone reasonably believed both parties were unmarried, along with questions involving divorce papers, annulment records, marriage certificates, and documentation errors tied to the New York City Clerk’s Office and the New York State Department of Health.

Ryan Besinque, Esq., discusses how bigamy can surface through marriage license applications, background checks, taxes, insurance records, and reports from a former spouse, family member, or acquaintance, and how these matters may be handled in the Supreme Court, Family Court, or by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. The episode also looks at practical realities for people in Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Westchester County, and Nassau County who are dealing with declaration of nullity actions, custody disputes, financial contributions, fraud-based claims, and questions about whether a marriage was valid from the start.

Listeners will come away with a clearer understanding of what to do if they discover a spouse’s prior undissolved marriage, what evidence may be needed to prove bigamy, and how these allegations can affect immigration status, housing, professional licensing, credibility in court, and long-term financial security. Featuring guidance from The Law Office of Ryan Besinque at 115 W 25th St, 4th Floor, this episode explains the legal options available to deceived spouses, accused individuals, and families seeking answers in New York, with insight grounded in real issues surrounding marriage validity, divorce, annulment, and family law.

The Law Office of Ryan Besinque

115 W 25th St 4th floor, New York, NY 10001, United States

(929) 251-4477

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