George Boyle
In 2024, Tennessee passed a law that allows officials, including judges, county clerks, and government officials, to refuse to perform same-sex marriages if it goes against their beliefs. This law has been criticized for potentially enabling discrimination against same-sex couples. While Tennessee law does not explicitly prevent same-sex marriages, finding a courthouse that will perform these weddings may be challenging due to this law. Couples seeking a same-sex marriage license in Tennessee must ensure they meet all requirements, including providing valid photo identification and necessary personal information.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Tennessee |
| Law | Allows officials to refuse to perform same-sex marriages |
| Courthouse Wedding | No courthouse weddings easily available in Nashville |
| Marriage License | Required for marriage, issued by the state of Tennessee, obtained from a county clerk's office |
| Validity | 30 days |
| Requirements | Both parties must be present with their photo IDs and Social Security numbers |
| Courthouse Locations | Sevier County Courthouse, Gatlinburg/Sevier County Clerk Office, Pigeon Forge/Sevier County Clerk Office |
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What You'll Learn
Tennessee law allows officials to refuse to perform same-sex marriages
Tennessee has passed a law that allows officials to refuse to perform same-sex marriages. The law, House Bill 878, states that a person "shall not be required to solemnize a marriage" if they object based on their "conscience or religious beliefs". This means that public officials, including judges, county clerks, and government officials, cannot be compelled to officiate a wedding ceremony, but it does not allow them to deny marriage licenses to couples based on their beliefs.
The bill faced opposition from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, who argued that it undermines marriage equality and seeks to exclude LGBTQ+ individuals from equal protection under the law. Tennessee Republicans, on the other hand, asserted that the bill was not intended to discriminate against same-sex couples or prevent them from marrying.
This law highlights a broader debate in the United States regarding the balance between religious freedom and LGBTQ+ rights. While some argue that public officials should not be forced to act against their beliefs, others contend that these laws enable discrimination and threaten the legal equality that has been fought for by marginalized communities.
In practical terms, this law means that same-sex couples in Tennessee may need to find their own officiant for their wedding, as they cannot assume that a public official will be required to perform the ceremony. This could involve seeking out an open-minded religious leader or a private wedding officiant who aligns with their beliefs and values.
While there is limited information on specific courthouses, it is recommended that couples in Tennessee obtain a marriage license from a county clerk's office. They can then choose to have their marriage officiated in any county in the state. For example, a couple could obtain a marriage license in Sumner County and have their wedding ceremony officiated in Nashville-Davidson County.
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$9.54 $19
A Tennessee marriage license is required for same-sex weddings
In the US state of Tennessee, same-sex couples have the right to marry. This was established in 2015, when the US Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that same-sex couples have a right to marry just like everyone else.
However, in 2024, a new law was passed that allows public officials, including judges, county clerks, and government officials, to refuse to perform marriages if doing so goes against their beliefs. This means that while a Tennessee marriage license is required for same-sex weddings, the couple may face some challenges in finding an official to perform the ceremony.
To obtain a marriage license in Tennessee, couples can apply at their county clerk's office. Some counties also accept online applications. Once the license is obtained, the couple is responsible for finding an official to perform the ceremony. This can be a religious or non-religious official, such as a clergy member, a judge, or a government official.
While the new law protects officials from being forced to conduct same-sex weddings, it is important to note that clerks are still obliged to issue marriage licenses to all eligible couples, regardless of their sexual orientation. This means that, while an official may refuse to perform the ceremony, they cannot withhold the necessary license based on their personal beliefs.
Despite the legalisation of same-sex marriage in Tennessee, there has been some opposition. Some counties initially refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, and there have been lawsuits filed seeking to stop same-sex marriages in the state. However, these efforts have been largely unsuccessful, and same-sex couples continue to have the legal right to marry in Tennessee.
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Same-sex couples can obtain a marriage license in Tennessee
To obtain a marriage license in Tennessee, couples must go to a county clerk's office. Both parties must be present with their photo IDs and Social Security numbers or a valid passport for non-US citizens. Applicants must also provide their parents' full names, including maiden names, as well as their parents' states of birth. If either party has been married before, the date of divorce or the death of the previous spouse must be provided. It is important to note that marriage licenses are only valid for 30 days, and if they expire before being officiated, a new license must be issued.
While Tennessee does issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, there have been legal challenges and controversies surrounding this issue. There have been lawsuits filed, such as in Bradley County in 2016, seeking to prevent county clerks from issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Additionally, the law allowing officials to refuse to perform marriages based on their beliefs has been criticized for potentially enabling discrimination against same-sex couples.
Despite these challenges, same-sex couples can still obtain marriage licenses in Tennessee and have them officiated in any county within the state. However, it is recommended to book an officiant as soon as the license is obtained to ensure the license is still valid.
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Courthouse wedding options in Nashville
Booking a courthouse wedding in Nashville
To book a courthouse wedding in Nashville, you can either complete an online form, call the General Sessions Court Division V at 615-862-8346, or email [email protected]. You can also book a date with Judge Robin Kimbrough Hayes by clicking this link and for more information, you can contact 615-862-8326 or the same email address.
Obtaining a marriage license
Couples seeking a marriage license on a Saturday must arrive by 12:10 pm. Both parties must be present with their photo IDs and Social Security numbers. Applicants must provide their parents' first, middle, and last names (including maiden names) as well as the state of their parents' birth. If you've been married before, you'll need to provide the date your previous marriage ended. You can obtain a marriage license from a county clerk's office.
Courthouse wedding availability
Nashville is a popular wedding destination, so it's important to book your preferred date and time well in advance. Check with the courthouse for their availability and any blackout dates that may apply. Weekends tend to be busier, so if you're looking for a more intimate ceremony, consider a weekday other than Friday.
Witnesses
You will need to arrange for witnesses to be present at your courthouse wedding. In Nashville, you have the option to invite close family members or friends to stand as witnesses. Alternatively, the courthouse can provide witnesses if needed.
Dress code
For the bride, consider a chic and modern short wedding dress or a flowing bohemian gown that reflects the city's laid-back vibe. Embrace delicate lace, intricate embroidery, or even a touch of sparkle to add a touch of Nashville glamour.
Photography
Consider reaching out to photographers to gauge date availability for your desired season.
Other things to consider
You can get married somewhere other than the courthouse, depending on the nature of your request. You can also get married on a date that is not listed on the schedule, subject to the nature of your request. Suggested parking is next to the historic courthouse on James Parkway, One Public Square. There is no validation of parking.
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Sevier County Courthouse marriage services
Marriage services in Sevier County, Tennessee, are available at the Sevier County Clerk's office, which has three locations:
125 Court Ave. Suite 202E Sevierville, TN 37862
> Office Hours: Monday to Thursday 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
> Phone: (865) 453-5502
300 Pine Mountain Road Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
> (Located behind City Hall)
> Office Hours: Saturday Only 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
> Phone: (865) 908-6613
405 Reagan Drive Gatlinburg, TN 37738
> Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
> Phone: (865) 430-3404
Couples can save time by filling out a marriage license pre-application online at www.seviercountytn.org. However, couples must still appear in person with a valid photo ID when picking up their marriage license.
The fee for marriage services in Sevier County is $60.00, but this can be waived if applicants complete a four-hour premarital course and present a notarized certificate of completion, which can be obtained through the Sevier County Clerk's office.
Same-Sex Marriages in Tennessee
Same-sex marriages are legally recognised in Tennessee, and a new state law prohibits clerks from refusing to issue a marriage license based on their personal beliefs. However, the same law allows government officials, including courthouse staff, to refuse to perform same-sex marriage ceremonies. Therefore, it is unclear whether marriage services for same-sex couples are available at Sevier County Courthouse. Same-sex couples may need to find a willing officiant from one of the government offices permitted to solemnise marriages, such as a mayor's office or governor's office.
Marriage License Requirements in Tennessee
To obtain a marriage license in Tennessee, both participants must present a valid driver's license or certified birth certificate, along with a photo ID. Social security cards are also required, and if either participant is not a U.S. citizen, a valid passport must be provided. If applicable, the exact date of a previous spouse's death or the finalisation of a divorce must be provided, along with a certified copy of the divorce decree if the bride's name has changed.
Out-of-state residents must pay a $41.00 fee, while Tennessee residents are required to pay $101.00. Cash and credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted, but a small transaction fee applies for card payments.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, courthouse weddings are available in Tennessee. For example, the General Sessions Court Division V in Nashville offers traditional courthouse weddings.
Yes, you need a Tennessee marriage license issued by the state. You can obtain a marriage license from a county clerk's office.
Yes, but you must arrive early. For example, in Macon County, couples seeking a marriage license on a Saturday must arrive by 12:10 pm.
Both parties must be present with their photo IDs and Social Security numbers. Applicants must also provide their parents' names, including maiden names, as well as the state of their parents' birth. If you have been married before, you will need to provide the date of your previous marriage.
Tennessee law allows public officials to refuse to perform marriages if it goes against their beliefs. This law has been criticised for potentially enabling discrimination against same-sex couples. Therefore, it is recommended to find an officiant who aligns with your beliefs to ensure they are willing to perform your wedding.
