/ 12 July 2011

Polygamists prepare to challenge bigamy laws

The polygamous family featured in the reality TV show Sister Wives plans to challenge the Utah bigamy law that makes their lifestyle illegal, their Washington-based attorney said on Tuesday.

Attorney Jonathan Turley said he would file the lawsuit challenging Utah’s bigamy law in Salt Lake City’s US District Court on Wednesday.

Turley represents Kody Brown and his four wives. Originally from Lehi, Utah, the family is featured on the TLC reality show Sister Wives. They moved to Nevada in January after police launched a bigamy investigation.

Bigamy is a third-degree felony in Utah. A person can be found guilty of bigamy through cohabitation, not just legal marriage contracts.

Turley said the lawsuit will challenge the Utah’s right to prosecute people for their private relationships. — Sapa-AP