Select your state

Criminal charges

bigamy

Bigamy is the act of marrying one person while being legally married to another. Polygamy is the practice or custom (often religious) of having more than one wife or husband at a time. Most states prohibit a party from having more than one marriage license at a time, and in most states bigamy is a crime.

In Minnesota, both bigamy and polygamy are prohibited under state law. According to Minnesota Statutes Section 609.355, bigamy, which is the act of entering into a marriage with someone while already legally married to another person, is considered a crime. A person found guilty of bigamy in Minnesota can face penalties that may include imprisonment and/or fines. The state does not recognize polygamous marriages, which involve having more than one spouse at the same time, even if such marriages were legally entered into in another jurisdiction where they may be permitted. As a result, any marriage license issued in the state of Minnesota is only valid for a marriage between two individuals who are not currently married to anyone else. Individuals who are involved in polygamous relationships or who attempt to enter into a bigamous marriage may face legal consequences under Minnesota law.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Criminal charges

bigamy

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Minnesota State Code

Minnesota State Code

Criminal charges

bigamy

Articles