Got cheated by a married person saying divorced

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From the facts stated, if the person was already married and had not obtained a valid divorce at the time of your marriage, your marriage is legally void. His denial of the relationship does not affect your legal remedies. You have a strong right to take both civil and criminal action. You may initiate criminal proceedings for cheating, concealment of material facts and bigamy, as he induced you into marriage by suppressing his subsisting marriage. You can also seek protection, residence and monetary relief under the Domestic Violence Act, as even a woman in a void marriage or live-in relationship is entitled to such protection. In addition, you may claim compensation and maintenance based on your status and the facts of cohabitation. It is advisable to immediately collect and preserve all evidence such as photographs, marriage proof, messages, witnesses and any documents showing cohabitation. You should also issue a legal notice and proceed with appropriate complaints before the police and competent court without delay. Early legal action will strengthen your position and prevent further harassment.

Advocate Pavani Kumari LawRato