Being married to multiple people at the same time is known as polygamy. Polygyny, in which a man has several wives, and polyandry, in which a woman has multiple husbands, are the two subcategories that fall under this basic classification.
In most nations, including the US, it is illegal to get a marriage licence involving polygamy. Polygamy in Ohio is prohibited by federal and state laws in the United States.
The legal history and cultural norms of the United States are the main causes of polygamy’s prohibition.
The common law of Britain, upon which the United States legal system is founded, recognised only monogamous marriages. Many of these legal customs, such as the ban on polygamy, were carried over when the American colonies were founded.
Historically, the majority religious groups in the US have likewise upheld the monogamous marriage concept. These organisations, especially Protestant Christians, had a big influence on early American legislation and cultural standards, which helped to discourage polygamy.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) publicly engaged in polygamy around the middle of the 19th century. The federal government was vehemently against this practice, as were other religious organisations. The Edmunds Act of 1882, which made it illegal for a man to live with more than one woman, was the last in a string of legislation passed to combat polygamy.
What Distinctions Exist Between Bigamy and Polygamy?
The practice of having numerous spouses at the same time is known more broadly as polygamy. It covers polyandry, or a woman having numerous husbands, and polygyny, or a man having multiple wives.
When polygamy is tolerated in a culture or society, it can be publicly carried out with the agreement of all partners involved.
The practice of polygamy is often prosecuted when it is found to be unlawful in a given country, or when other crimes such as child or domestic violence are identified. Reports from worried relatives, neighbours, or community members may trigger an investigation.
What Penalties Are Associated with Polygamy in Ohio?
The legal ramifications for polygamy may vary greatly based on the jurisdiction and the particulars of each instance.
Generally speaking, people found guilty of polygamy may be sentenced to jail, fines, or both. The consequences can be harsher, with longer jail terms, larger fines, and possibly even the loss of parental rights, if there are other problems like child abuse, domestic abuse, or sexual abuse.
Section 2919.01. Bigamy.
(A) No married individual in this state may remarry or carry on a cohabitation relationship with another individual.
(B) The fact that the actor’s spouse was consistently absent for the five years prior to the alleged subsequent marriage and that the actor was unaware of their existence during that period constitutes an affirmative defence to a prosecution under this section.
(C) Violation of this section entails bigamy, a first-degree misdemeanour.
Here are a few instances of how these extra concerns may affect the punishments meted out to those found guilty of polygamy:
Domestic Abuse: If a polygamous partner is also found guilty of domestic abuse, they may be subject to further charges and punishments. Depending on how severe the abuse was, they might be prosecuted with assault, battery, or even aggravated assault. Fines, probation, required counselling, and imprisonment or prison terms are some of the possible penalties for these offences.
Sexual Abuse: A person in a polygamous relationship may be charged with sexual assault, rape, or other sex offences if they are proven guilty of sexually assaulting a spouse or other household member.
Serious consequences for these offences can include long prison terms, obligatory sex offender registration, and limitations on the defendant’s post-release housing and employment options.
Child Abuse: Depending on the severity of the abuse, a person in a polygamous relationship may be charged with child endangerment, child negligence, or even child sexual abuse. Penalties for these offences may consist of fines, obligatory counselling, incarceration, and termination of parental rights. In severe situations, the offender could not be allowed to see their kids ever again.
FAQs: Polygamy in Ohio
Can 3 people get married in Ohio?
Ohio’s legal framework does not permit polygamous or multiple-person marriages, as it defines marriage as a union between one man and one woman or two individuals of the same sex. As of January 2024, three people cannot get married simultaneously, and only two individuals can marry in Ohio.
Is bigamy illegal in Ohio?
Bigamy is indeed prohibited in Ohio. Revised Code of Ohio Section 2919.01:
I. The state prohibits married individuals from marrying or cohabiting with another person.
II. Classifies as a first-degree misdemeanor.
III. Penalty: Up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
IV. Affirmative defense: Absence for five years before second marriage, not considered bigamy.
How many times can you legally be married in Ohio?
Ohio allows unlimited legal marriages as long as couples adhere to the state’s specific laws for each marriage.
What is the difference between bigamy and polygamy in Ohio?
Bigamy and polygamy are often confused but have distinct differences. Bigamy involves marrying someone while already legally married, often involving deception and often involving personal gain or avoiding legal responsibilities. It is illegal in most jurisdictions, including Ohio. Polygamy involves having multiple spouses with consent and knowledge, often based on religious beliefs or cultural traditions. Both are illegal in most countries, but some religious groups practice them in unrecognized communities.
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Disclaimer:
The codes provided may not be the most recent, and Ohio may have more accurate information. We cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information on this site or the state site, so please check official sources.