Bigamy Laws by State 2024

Bigamy, the act of marrying one person while still legally married to another, is illegal across all states in the United States. Despite its illegality, instances of bigamy still occur, often due to misunderstandings of divorce proceedings or deliberate deception. However, strict legal consequences serve as a deterrent in most cases.

In many states, bigamy is classified as a felony or a serious misdemeanor, carrying penalties such as imprisonment and hefty fines. For instance, in Arizona, bigamy can lead to imprisonment for 6 to 18 months and fines of up to $150,000. Similarly, in Colorado, it's a Class 2 misdemeanor punishable by up to 120 days in jail and fines up to $750.

Some states have particularly stringent laws regarding bigamy. In Utah, for example, offenders may face fines, community service, and possible imprisonment. Moreover, in states like Louisiana, bigamists can face up to 5 years of imprisonment with or without hard labor and fines of up to $1,000.

While bigamy remains illegal and carries significant legal consequences, it persists as a challenge for legal authorities due to its clandestine nature. However, the severity of punishment across states underscores the importance of upholding the institution of marriage and the legal ramifications of violating its sanctity.