Holiday Courthouse Weddings: Are They Possible?

Courthouse weddings, also known as civil weddings, are a great option for couples who want to get married without the high cost and stress of a traditional wedding. They are legally recognised, non-religious ceremonies presided over by a legal official, such as a judge or court clerk. While they are straightforward to plan, there are still some important steps to take, such as applying for a marriage license, gathering the necessary paperwork, and finding a witness or two. Courthouse weddings are a simple and effective way to tie the knot, and can be made as intimate and fun as you like. But can you get married on a holiday?

Location: Choose where to get married, keeping in mind some states require applying for a marriage license in the same town

When it comes to choosing a location for your courthouse wedding, it's important to keep in mind that the requirements for obtaining a marriage license can vary depending on the state and even the town. In some states, you can obtain a marriage license from any city or town in the state, regardless of where you plan to get married. For example, in Massachusetts, you can apply for a marriage license from any city or town in the state, and it will be valid statewide. On the other hand, some states require you to obtain the license from the specific county where the wedding will take place. For instance, if you live in New York but want to get married in Sonoma County, California, you would need to obtain the license from any county in California, not just Sonoma County.

It's always a good idea to research the local guidelines and regulations for the state and town where you plan to get married. The city or town clerk's office is usually the best place to start, as they can provide information on the specific requirements for obtaining a marriage license in that location. In some cases, you may need to provide proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport, your Social Security number, and pay certain fees, which may vary depending on the town. Additionally, some places may have residency requirements for both the couple and the officiant, so it's important to confirm these details in advance.

When planning a courthouse wedding, it's essential to be mindful of any waiting periods or time constraints associated with the marriage license. Typically, there is a waiting period between applying for the license and when you can pick it up. For example, in Massachusetts, there is a 3-day waiting period, and the license is valid for 60 days. If you don't get married within that validity period, you'll need to apply for the license again. These requirements can vary by state and town, so it's crucial to check with the local authorities to ensure you meet all the necessary conditions.

While marriage licenses are specific to the state or county where the wedding will take place, it's important to note that marriage certificates are recognized across all 50 states. Once you are legally married in one state, your marriage will be acknowledged in every other state as well. This is an important distinction to keep in mind, especially if you're considering getting married in a different state than where you live. Overall, it's crucial to understand the specific requirements of the location where you plan to get married to ensure that your courthouse wedding is legally recognized.

Marriage license: Research requirements and obtain a marriage license, which is typically valid for 30-90 days

A marriage license is a permit to get married in a particular location and a legal document for public records stating that you and your partner are free and eligible to marry each other. The requirements for obtaining a marriage license vary by state and region, so it is important to check the specific requirements for your location. Here is a general overview of the research requirements and how to obtain a marriage license, which is typically valid for a limited period:

Research Requirements:

Before applying for a marriage license, it is essential to research the specific requirements for your chosen location. This includes determining the correct office to obtain the license, whether appointments are required, and understanding the necessary documentation. Some common documents that may be required include:

• Proof of age (birth certificate)
• Parental consent if underage (usually under 18 years of age)
• Photo ID (driver's license, state ID card, military ID, passport, or birth certificate)
• Social security number
• Proof of citizenship and/or residence
• Information about your parents, including full birth names, birth dates, and birth states
• Divorce decree, if previously married
• Death certificate, if widowed

Obtaining the Marriage License:

Once you have gathered the required documentation, you and your future spouse will typically need to visit the appropriate office together in person. In some states, you may be required to bring a witness. The marriage license application is an affidavit, or a sworn statement, declaring that there are no legal impediments to the marriage. The cost of the marriage license can range from $35 to $150, depending on the location, and some offices may have specific payment method requirements.

Validity of Marriage License:

Marriage licenses are typically valid for a limited period, which can vary by location. For example, in New York State, a marriage license is valid for 60 calendar days, while in California, the completed marriage license must be returned within 10 business days. It is important to plan and be aware of the specific time window for your chosen location to ensure your marriage license remains valid.

Paperwork: Gather necessary documents, including IDs, divorce papers, and payment for the marriage license

Planning a courthouse wedding? Here's a guide to the necessary paperwork, including IDs, divorce papers, and payment for the marriage license.

IDs

A valid form of government-issued photo ID is required for both parties. This can include a passport, driver's license, or certificate of naturalization. Make sure to check the specific requirements of your location, as some places may only accept certain forms of ID.

Divorce Papers

If either party has been divorced, you will need to provide a copy of the final dissolution, also known as divorce papers. This is an important document, as it proves that any previous marriages have been legally dissolved.

Payment for the Marriage License

Obtaining a marriage license typically requires a fee. These fees can vary depending on the location, so be sure to check with your local city or county clerk's office to find out the cost. It's important to note that marriage licenses have expiration dates, so you'll need to plan your wedding within the valid period.

Marriage License vs. Marriage Certificate

It's important to understand the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate. A marriage license is a document that you and your partner must obtain before the wedding, while the marriage certificate is the official legal documentation that you will sign and receive after the ceremony.

Additional Documents

In addition to the above, there may be other documents required depending on your location. For example, some places may require certified copies of birth certificates or social security numbers. Be sure to check with your local city or county clerk's office to find out the complete list of required documents.

Witnesses

Don't forget that you will also need to arrange for witnesses. At least one witness over the age of 18 is typically required, but some locations may require two witnesses. Choose someone close to you, like a maid of honor or best man, to fulfill this role.

Witnesses: Ensure at least one witness over 18 years of age is present; some locations require two witnesses

A courthouse wedding is a non-religious ceremony that allows you to legally marry your partner. It is presided over by a legal official, such as a judge or court clerk, and usually takes place in a courthouse or city hall. To obtain a marriage certificate, recognised by the U.S. government, you will need at least one witness over the age of 18. Some locations require two witnesses, so it is important to check the requirements of your chosen location. This is an important detail to confirm, as you will need to ensure your witnesses are available on your chosen date.

The role of the witness is to be present at the ceremony and, after the wedding, you and your partner will sign the marriage license, which is then returned to the county. The marriage certificate is then issued.

The requirements for witnesses are the same across the U.S., but it is worth noting that there may be different requirements for other aspects of your courthouse wedding, depending on the state in which you are marrying. For example, some states require that you apply for your marriage license in the same town where you plan to marry, and there may be waiting periods between receiving your marriage license and the wedding ceremony.

With so much to plan, it is important to be organised. However, the benefit of a courthouse wedding is that it is straightforward to plan, and you can do it yourself, without the need for a wedding planner.

Scheduling: Select a date, considering waiting periods and license expiry dates, and prepare for the ceremony

Scheduling a courthouse wedding involves considering various factors, including waiting periods, license expiry dates, and preparing for the ceremony. Here are some essential tips for selecting the right date and ensuring a smooth process:

Firstly, understand the waiting periods for your marriage license. After receiving your marriage license, there may be a mandatory waiting period before you can tie the knot. These waiting periods vary across different states and counties. For instance, Illinois and New York have a 24-hour waiting period, while Wisconsin requires a six-day wait. It's crucial to factor in this waiting period when choosing your wedding date.

Secondly, be mindful of the expiry date on your marriage license. Typically, marriage licenses are valid for a limited period, ranging from 30 to 90 days. Ensure that you select a wedding date that falls within this timeframe. You don't want your license to expire before your ceremony, necessitating a new application.

When selecting your wedding date, it's advisable to contact the courthouse to determine their availability. Some courthouses may accommodate walk-ins during business hours, while others will require you to schedule a date in advance. It's always best to plan ahead and secure your preferred date.

Additionally, consider any personal preparations you may want to make for the ceremony. Unlike traditional weddings, courthouse weddings are typically shorter, lasting around 20 minutes. However, that doesn't mean you can't make it special. Think about how you want to personalize your ceremony, whether it's through your attire, exchanging rings, reciting vows, or having a photographer capture the moment.

Finally, don't forget to gather all the necessary paperwork before your wedding date. This includes your marriage license, forms of identification for both partners, and payment for the marriage ceremony if it's not already covered. Having all the required documents ensures a stress-free experience on the day of your wedding.

By following these steps and considering waiting periods, license expiry dates, and ceremony preparations, you can confidently select a date for your courthouse wedding and look forward to a memorable and hassle-free experience.

Frequently asked questions