What is the definition of bigamy?

Bigamy is defined as the act of entering into marriage with one person while still legally married to another. This definition captures the essential legal problem that arises when an individual attempts to marry someone new without first obtaining a divorce from their existing spouse. Legally, bigamy is often considered a crime in many jurisdictions because it undermines the institution of marriage and can lead to legal and social complications.

Understanding the context in which bigamy occurs highlights its significance. It is important to recognize that this situation is distinct from divorcing a spouse, which is a legal process designed to dissolve a marriage before a new marriage can take place; hence, it does not relate to the act of marrying while still existing in a legal union with another. Polygamy, while related, refers to a broader circumstance where individuals may have multiple spouses simultaneously, but it does not specifically pertain to being married to one person while entering a new marriage. Lastly, the process of annulment pertains to declaring a marriage null and void and does not involve entering a new marriage while still being married to another.