Deborah Chan
Getting married at a courthouse is a convenient option for many couples. Some courthouses in the US, such as those in Peoria County, Illinois, and Cook County, perform marriage ceremonies, either in-person or via video conferencing programs like Zoom. Couples are required to obtain a marriage license at least one day before the wedding, and sometimes a small fee is required for the ceremony. While some courthouses require appointments for the ceremony, others allow walk-ins.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Courthouse wedding locations | Peoria County, IL; Circuit Court of Cook County (Maywood Courthouse, Bridgeview Courthouse, Markham Courthouse, Skokie Courthouse); Chicago and all of the suburban municipal district courthouses |
| Requirements | Marriage license, valid form of identification, $10 administrative fee |
| Additional requirements for minors | Certified copy of birth certificate, consent form signed by both parents with notarized signatures |
| Hours of operation | Vary, but typically Monday through Friday, with specific hours for in-person ceremonies (Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 2 p.m.-4 p.m.) |
| Appointment necessary? | Varies, some locations require appointments while others do not |
| Photo and video restrictions | Taking photos and videos is typically allowed only in the courtroom where the ceremony is performed |
| Judge's role | Performs the ceremony, but note that judges are not ordained and the marriage may not be valid within the Christian faith |
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What You'll Learn
Wedding requirements
Couples looking to get married at a courthouse need to meet certain requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the courthouse and local laws, but here are some general guidelines:
Marriage License
Firstly, you will need to obtain a marriage license. In some counties, you can apply for a license online, but you may still need to complete the process in person at the courthouse. There is usually a fee for the license, which can vary by county. For example, in Peoria County, Illinois, the fee is $75, payable by cash, check, or card (with an additional $4 fee for card payments). It is important to note that marriage licenses have an expiration date, typically 60 days from the issue date, and you must obtain the license at least one day before the wedding.
Valid Identification and Proof of Age
Both parties must provide valid identification and proof of age. This can include a certified copy of a birth certificate, a valid driver's license, state identification, a passport, or military identification. If either party is under 18 years of age, additional requirements apply, such as parental consent and a certified copy of their birth certificate.
Appointment and Scheduling
In most courthouses, you will need to schedule an appointment for the wedding ceremony. This can often be done by contacting the Circuit Clerk's office or the Office of the Presiding Judge. Appointments are typically available during regular courthouse hours, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, and you must have a valid marriage license to book an appointment.
Ceremony Details
Couples are usually responsible for bringing their marriage license and a small administrative fee (often $10) on the day of the ceremony. In-person ceremonies may be held during specific hours, such as Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Some courthouses may also offer virtual ceremonies via Zoom, which require scheduling in advance.
It is important to note that specific rules regarding photography and videography may apply, with some courthouses only allowing photos and videos to be taken in the courtroom where the ceremony is performed.
These are the key requirements for a courthouse wedding, but it is always best to contact the specific courthouse or local authorities to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Wedding locations
When it comes to wedding locations, there are a variety of options to choose from, each offering a unique experience for your special day. Here are some popular choices to consider:
Courthouses
Courthouses offer an intimate and convenient option for couples seeking a simple and affordable wedding. While the availability of courthouse weddings varies by location and some courthouses may be closed for ceremonies, many do offer this service. For example, the Circuit Court of Cook County in Chicago and its suburban municipal district courthouses perform marriages and civil unions. Similarly, the Peoria County Courthouse in Illinois also offers wedding ceremonies conducted by a judge. These ceremonies are typically short and straightforward, lasting around 15 minutes, and may be followed by photo opportunities outdoors, as courthouses often have scenic surroundings.
Outdoor Venues
For couples who love nature, exchanging vows amidst a breathtaking landscape can be a dream come true. Beach weddings, for instance, offer a romantic backdrop of sun, sand, and sea. Alternatively, botanical gardens or rustic farms provide lush greenery and a serene atmosphere for your nuptials. Whether it's a sunset ceremony on the beach or an outdoor reception under the stars, nature provides a magical setting for your celebration.
Historic Sites and Mansions
If you're drawn to old-world charm and grandeur, consider historic sites and mansions for your wedding. These venues offer a glimpse into the past with their elegant architecture, ornate details, and lush grounds. Many historic sites, such as stately homes or castles, provide exclusive use of the property for your wedding, allowing you to create a truly memorable experience for you and your guests.
Religious Institutions
For those with a strong religious affiliation, getting married in a place of worship holds deep significance. Whether it's a church, temple, mosque, or synagogue, these venues provide a spiritual backdrop for your union. Each religious institution has its own unique rituals and traditions that can be incorporated into your wedding ceremony, adding a layer of meaning and cultural importance to your special day.
Hotel Resorts and Banquet Halls
For a luxurious and convenient option, hotel resorts and banquet halls offer all-inclusive wedding packages. These venues often provide stunning backdrops, elegant accommodations for you and your guests, and experienced staff to ensure your day runs smoothly. From intimate ceremonies to grand receptions, these venues cater to your every need, making your wedding a memorable and stress-free experience.
Each wedding location offers unique advantages, and the right choice depends on your personal preferences, guest list size, and the overall vision you have for your special day.
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Wedding timings
- Office Hours for Obtaining a Marriage License: In Peoria County, Illinois, the office hours for obtaining a marriage license in person are 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Starting January 3, 2023, the hours will change to 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., still Monday to Friday. It is recommended to submit your application online before visiting the office to speed up the process. The license must be obtained at least one day before the wedding.
- In-Person Ceremony Timings: In Chicago and Cook County, in-person marriage ceremonies are held Tuesday through Friday, with morning sessions from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and afternoon sessions from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Couples are advised to arrive no later than 30 minutes before closing.
- Virtual Ceremony Scheduling: Virtual ceremonies, conducted via Zoom, can be scheduled by calling the relevant office. For example, in Cook County, you can call (312) 603-5660 to schedule a virtual ceremony.
- Appointment Requirements: Some courthouses, such as the Maywood and Markham Courthouses in Cook County, require appointments for marriage ceremonies. Appointments are typically available Monday through Friday, excluding weekends and court holidays. It's important to contact the specific courthouse to confirm their appointment requirements and availability.
- Time for Photography: If you plan to take photographs or videos during your wedding, note that most courthouses only allow photography and videography in the specific courtroom where the ceremony is being performed. Some courthouses, like those in Cook County, do not permit video cameras. Ensure you adhere to the courthouse's rules regarding photography and respect the time constraints to avoid disrupting other court proceedings.
- Obtaining Certified Copies: After your marriage, you can obtain certified copies of your marriage license or certificate. In Peoria County, the first certified copy costs $16, and additional copies purchased simultaneously cost $7 each. In Cook County, these certified copies are typically available 10 to 14 business days after the ceremony.
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Wedding fees
The fees associated with a courthouse wedding vary depending on the location and services required. Basic fees for a simple courthouse wedding are typically nominal, ranging from $30 to $88, or they may even be waived for active-duty military or first responders. However, there may be additional costs for certain spaces that accommodate guests or for bringing in an external officiant.
Some courthouses offer more elaborate ceremony options with additional fees. For example, the courthouse in San Francisco charges $1,000 for a one-hour ceremony for up to 100 guests on the Mayor's Balcony. Similarly, the courthouse in New York City offers a quick and efficient ceremony option for a $25 fee.
If you choose to have a judge perform the ceremony, there may be an additional fee. For instance, in Peoria County, Illinois, there is a $10 fee for a marriage ceremony performed by a judge, in addition to the $75 marriage license fee.
Another cost to consider is wedding photography. While not all courthouses permit photography, those that do often have wedding photographers specializing in courthouse weddings. These photographers typically charge by the hour, with prices ranging from $800 to $1,500 on average.
It is important to check the official government website or contact the local clerk's office directly to obtain the most up-to-date information regarding fees and scheduling appointments for your desired courthouse wedding location.
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Wedding photography
Courthouse weddings are a great option for couples looking for a simple and intimate ceremony. While the ceremony itself is typically short, lasting around 15 minutes, couples can still expect to obtain beautiful wedding photos to commemorate their special day.
When planning a courthouse wedding, it is important to schedule the ceremony in advance and obtain a marriage license at least one day before the wedding. Couples should also be prepared to show proof of age and provide any required consent forms if they are under 18 years of age.
For wedding photography, it is recommended to hire a professional photographer to capture both the ceremony and portraits afterward. Couples should allocate 30 minutes to an hour for taking photos after the ceremony. This includes time for photos around the courthouse, as well as the option to travel to a second location for additional photo opportunities.
Fees for wedding photography can vary depending on factors such as the photographer's experience, the duration of coverage, and the day of the week. Prices can range from $500 for a minimum coverage to upwards of $1,800 for two hours of coverage, including pre-and post-wedding correspondence and editing time.
To enhance the sentimentality of the occasion, couples can bring personal mementos, such as family heirlooms or something borrowed and blue. By informing the photographer about these special items in advance, they can ensure they are included in the wedding photos.
Overall, courthouse weddings offer a unique and intimate celebration for couples, and with careful planning and the help of a skilled photographer, they can capture beautiful and memorable wedding photos.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, courthouses are open for weddings. However, this may vary depending on the courthouse and its location. For example, the Peoria County Courthouse in Illinois is open for weddings, whereas the Putnam County Courthouse in Hennepin, Illinois, does not appear to be.
The requirements for a courthouse wedding vary depending on the courthouse and location. Typically, couples must obtain a marriage license at least one day before the wedding and bring it to the courthouse on the day of the ceremony. Some courthouses may also require couples to pay a fee. It is recommended that couples confirm the requirements and call in advance to ensure the courthouse can perform the ceremony.
Yes, but this depends on the courthouse and its policies. Some courthouses may only allow photos and videos to be taken in the courtroom where the ceremony is being performed, while others may prohibit video cameras altogether. It is best to check with the specific courthouse to understand their policies.
Yes, guests are typically allowed to attend courthouse weddings. However, the number of guests may be limited due to space constraints. It is recommended to check with the specific courthouse to understand their policies and any restrictions they may have regarding guest attendance.
