Rhode Island Judge's Unusual Wedding Offerings

If you're looking to get married in Rhode Island, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to venues, from outdoor vineyards to oceanfront mansions. But before you walk down the aisle, there are a few legal requirements you'll need to meet. While it's relatively easy to obtain a marriage license, there are some important details to take care of beforehand. For instance, did you know that Rhode Island is one of the few states that still recognize common-law marriages? Or that there's no waiting period to get married after you obtain your license? Here, we break down everything you need to know about getting married in the Ocean State, from the legal requirements to the best times of year to tie the knot. So read on, and happy planning!

Who can be a wedding officiant in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has a range of requirements that must be met before someone can officiate a wedding. These requirements are outlined in the state's marriage laws, specifically 15 R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-3-5, which details who is legally allowed to join people in marriage.

According to this legislation, the following people are permitted to officiate weddings in Rhode Island:

• Ordained clergy or elders in good standing
• Justices of the supreme court, superior court, family court, workers' compensation court, district court, or traffic tribunal
• Clerks, administrative clerks, or general chief clerks of the aforementioned courts
• Magistrates or special magistrates of the superior court, family court, traffic tribunal, or district court
• Administrators of the workers' compensation court
• Former justices, judges, or administrators of the aforementioned courts
• Former chief clerks, clerks, administrative clerks, or general chief clerks of a superior court
• The secretary of the senate
• Elected clerks of the general assembly or former elected clerks who retired after July 1, 2007
• Judges of the United States appointed under Article III of the U.S. Constitution
• Bankruptcy judges appointed under Article I of the U.S. Constitution
• United States magistrate judges appointed under federal law
• Justices and former justices of municipal courts in any city or town in the state
• Administrators of the Johnston municipal court while serving in that role
• Probate judges and former probate judges
• Wardens of the town of New Shoreham, who may only join people in marriage in New Shoreham

Additionally, Rhode Island requires that anyone officiating a wedding be at least 18 years old. This is the same minimum age that most ordaining bodies require to grant the title of minister.

It is not necessary for the officiant to be a resident of Rhode Island or a member of any particular faith. However, they should have proof of their ordination, which may be requested.

Online Ordination

Online ordination is recognised in Rhode Island, and ministers ordained online fall into the category of ordained clergy. To prove their good standing, they may need to purchase certain documentation, such as a Letter of Good Standing.

Witnesses

It is important to note that Rhode Island law requires the presence of at least two witnesses in addition to the officiant during the wedding ceremony.

What are the requirements for a Rhode Island marriage license?

To obtain a marriage license in Rhode Island, both parties must be eligible to marry and must apply in person. If both parties live in Rhode Island, they can apply for a marriage license at the city or town hall where either person lives. If only one party lives in Rhode Island, they must apply for a marriage license from the city or town hall where the Rhode Island resident lives. If neither party lives in Rhode Island, they must apply for a marriage license from the clerks' office in the city or town where the marriage ceremony will be performed.

Both parties must provide a valid photo identification and a certified birth certificate. If the individual’s current address is not on the photo identification, proof of current address must be provided. If either party was married or in a legal relationship before, they must provide a certified final divorce decree/dissolution or a certified death certificate for the former spouse. A legal relationship includes marriage, civil union, common-law marriage, or registered domestic partnership. Any document that is not in English may need to be translated and presented with the original documents.

The marriage license costs $24 and is valid for 90 days (three months) after the issuance date. There is no waiting period after receiving the license to get married, but the law requires that the minister officiating the ceremony return the completed license and certificate within 72 hours of the ceremony.

Where can you get married in Rhode Island?

If you're looking to get married in Rhode Island, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, same-sex marriage is legal in the state, and you can choose to have a civil or religious ceremony. You can get married at a courthouse, or you can opt for a beach wedding—the choice is yours!

Where to Get Married in Rhode Island

If you're looking for a courthouse wedding, the Newport Family Court is a great option. The staff are reportedly friendly and helpful, and they even have a little speech prepared. Providence City Hall is another beautiful option for a courthouse wedding, and they have retired judges who are willing to perform the ceremony.

For those seeking a beach wedding, Weddings with a Heart is a great choice. They are based in Newport and specialise in beach weddings, offering affordable photography packages.

If you're looking for something more personalised, Tie the Knot with Teia is a good option. They specialise in crafting personalised wedding ceremonies and vow renewals, ensuring that every moment reflects your unique love story.

How to Get a Marriage License in Rhode Island

To get a marriage license in Rhode Island, you must apply at the city or town hall where either you or your spouse-to-be lives. If neither of you lives in Rhode Island, you must apply for a marriage license from the clerks' office in the city or town where the ceremony will take place. Both parties must provide valid photo identification and a certified birth certificate. If your current address is not on your photo identification, proof of your current address is also required. Additionally, if either of you has been married before, you must provide proof of legal separation or a certificate of divorce.

Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Rhode Island

Your wedding ceremony in Rhode Island can be presided over by people aged 18 or older who are state elected officials, administrators, clerks, justices, or magistrates, as well as ordained clergy in good standing. This includes online ministers ordained by the Universal Life Church. The officiant's personal beliefs or gender have no bearing on their eligibility to perform the ceremony, and they do not need to be a resident of the state.

What is the cost of a marriage license in Rhode Island?

The cost of a marriage license in Rhode Island is $24. This is a flat fee that is payable by credit/debit card, eCheck, check, or money order. The license is valid for 90 days and there is no waiting period, meaning your marriage can take place immediately after the license is issued.

In addition to the $24 fee, there is an additional $10 fee for the Family and Children Trust Fund, of which $2 is retained by the town or city clerk and $8 is sent to the general treasurer for the fund.

To obtain a marriage license in Rhode Island, both parties must apply in person with all the required documents. These documents include:

• Certified birth certificates (originals only)
• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Certified copy of a final divorce decree/dissolution or death certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of residency (if one or both parties are Rhode Island residents)

It is important to note that all documents must be originals and certified documents must have a raised seal.

What is the process for returning a marriage license in Rhode Island?

Marriage licenses in Rhode Island cost $24 and are valid for three months from the date of issue. If your license expires before you get married, you must return it to the city clerk who issued it. No refund or rebate will be offered for a new license.

Once you have your marriage license, there is no waiting period before the wedding can take place. However, the officiant conducting the ceremony must return the completed license and certificate within 72 hours of the ceremony.

If you are getting married in a civil ceremony, you can ask the court to provide two witnesses. It is a good idea to make this request well in advance.

If you are getting married at the courthouse, you will likely have a small ceremony with only a few people present. This usually takes place at the end of the day after the court has closed.

To obtain a copy of your marriage license, you can request one online, by phone, in person, or by mail.

Frequently asked questions