UCMJ Article 134
Bigamy
The MCM specifies for a service member to be prosecuted for and Article 134 Bigamy violation, it must be demonstrated that:
- the accused had a living lawful spouse;
- while having such spouse the accused wrongfully married another person; and
- under the circumstances, the conduct of the accused was either: (i) to the prejudice of good order and discipline in the armed forces; (ii) was of a nature to bring discredit upon the armed forces; or (iii) to the prejudice of good order and discipline in the armed forces and of a nature to bring discredit upon the armed forces.
Understanding Article 134 (Bigamy) of the UCMJ
Bigamy is contracting another marriage by one who already has a living lawful spouse. If a prior marriage was void, it will have created no status of “lawful spouse.” A belief that a prior marriage has been terminated by divorce, death of the other spouse, or otherwise, constitutes a mistake of fact defense only if the belief was reasonable.
Maximum Possible Punishment for Violations of Article 134
Service members convicted of an Article 134 Bigamy violation face a maximum possible punishment of a dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for 2 years.
How do you defend against Article 134 Bigamy charges?
When you are facing the combined resources of the military as well as the current cultural climate, you need to be prepared to defend your career and your freedom. Crisp and Associates, LLC has a team of experienced trial attorneys, with more than 75 years of combined experience, who have won these types of cases. This team includes the firm’s founder, Jonathan Crisp, a highly respected and sought-after attorney, speaker, and lecturer, who has served in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG) since 1998 and entered private practice in 2007.
If you, or someone you know, is facing Article 134 charges for Bigamy, you need to speak with a Military defense attorney right away. We understand what is at risk, and we know how to protect your career, your freedom, and your future. Please call Crisp and Associates Military at 888-258-1653 for a free consultation.
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