How Do You Get Married At The Courthouse: 9 Tips
Getting married at the courthouse is a simple and affordable way to tie the knot. Here’s what you need to know:
Introduction
Getting married at the courthouse is legal in all 50 states
Getting married at the courthouse involves a civil ceremony performed by a judge or magistrate at a local courthouse. It is a legal way to get married and is recognized throughout the United States.
Benefits of getting married at the courthouse
One of the most significant benefits of getting married at the courthouse is the low cost. Courthouse weddings are almost always much cheaper than traditional weddings. The license, courthouse fees, and certified copies of your marriage certificate will probably be under $150.
They can be an excellent option for couples who want to save money. Additionally, courthouse weddings are often more convenient since they require less planning or preparation. Many courthouses also offer walk-in ceremonies, so you won’t need to make an appointment or wait months for your wedding day.
Who might consider getting married at the courthouse?
Courthouse weddings are a good option for couples with tight budgets or wanting a simple, no-fuss wedding. They are also a good option for couples who want to get married quickly, such as those who need to get married before a deployment or a move.
How to Plan a Courthouse Wedding
Check the Requirements
You must meet the requirements before getting married at a courthouse. The rules and regulations for getting married at a courthouse vary by state, so you must check with your local courthouse to find out what to do. At a minimum, you will need to get a marriage license and provide official identification.
Choose Your Location
You can get married almost anywhere you want in the United States, but the requirements will vary from state to state and even county to county. If you decide to get married outside of your home state, you will need to obtain a marriage license in that state. Some states require that you obtain the marriage license from the county and maybe even from the town that you plan to marry in.
Set a Courthouse Wedding Date
Once you have checked the requirements and chosen your location, it’s time to set a courthouse wedding date. The process of setting a date will vary depending on your local courthouse. Some courthouses offer walk-in ceremonies, while others require you to make an appointment in advance. You have to plan ahead to be you have all the necessary documents and paperwork before your wedding day is essential.
Prepare for Your Wedding Day
On the day of your courthouse wedding, you must dress appropriately and arrive on time. Consider bringing two witnesses with you, although this is not always required. After the ceremony, you must sign the marriage license and obtain a certified copy of the certificate.
In summary, getting married at the courthouse is a simple and affordable way. It is a good option for couples who want a no-fuss wedding or are on a tight budget. Before you marry at the courthouse, check the requirements, choose your location, set a date, and prepare for your wedding day.
If you’re planning to get married at the courthouse, there are specific legal requirements you need to fulfill. Here’s what you need to know:
Preparing for the Courthouse Wedding
Legal Requirements
The legal requirements for getting married vary by state, but in general, you will need to be of legal age to get married, which is 18 in most states. You may need parental consent or a court order to get married if either of you is under 18. You must also provide identification and proof of residency if required.
Many states require two forms of identification, i.e., a driver’s license, a certified birth certificate, or a valid passport.
The clerk will want a certified copy of the marriage dissolution paperwork if either party was previously married.
Obtaining a marriage license
You must obtain a marriage license beforehand. The process for obtaining a marriage license varies by state. Still, you must visit the county clerk’s office or another designated agency to apply for the license. You will need to provide official identification and proof of residency and pay a fee. Once you have obtained the license, there is typically a waiting period of 3 or more days before you can use the license to get married.
Some states have online marriage license applications. They may charge a few extra dollars if you pay by credit card. In most cases you will have to pick up the license in person and have your attestations and signature notarized.
Choosing a date and time
When choosing a date and time for your courthouse wedding, consider the availability of the courthouse and any scheduling restrictions. Some courthouses offer walk-in ceremonies, while others require you to make an appointment in advance. Ensuring you have all the necessary documents and paperwork before your wedding day is important.
Dress code and attire
Courthouse weddings are typically more casual than traditional weddings, but dressing appropriately is still important. Opt for comfortable and austere attire, such as a dress or suit appropriate for the setting.
Bringing witnesses
Whether witnesses are required for a courthouse wedding varies by state, but you will probably need to bring at least one witness. Some states require two witnesses, so it’s important to check the requirements in your state before your wedding day.
After the courthouse wedding, it’s essential to take steps to change your name and update your documents accordingly. You can use a certified copy of your brand-new marriage certificate. You can also use your marriage certificate to update your driver’s license, notify your bank and post office of your name change, and more.
In summary, to prepare for your courthouse wedding, fulfill the legal requirements, obtain a marriage license, pick a date and time, dress appropriately, and bring any required witnesses. After your wedding day, change your name and update your documents accordingly.
The Courthouse Wedding Experience
Check-in process
When you arrive at the courthouse, you’ll need to check in with the clerk’s office to let them know you’ve come for your wedding ceremony. The clerk will check your paperwork, including your ID and marriage license, and provide you with a number. You can meet them now and sort out last-minute details if you’ve hired a photographer or other vendor.
Waiting period
Depending on the courthouse and the day of the week, you may need to wait before your ceremony begins. This waiting period varies by state and can be anywhere from a couple of minutes to several hours. Plan ahead and bring something to entertain you, such as a book or music.
Ceremony location and officiant
The courthouse wedding ceremony typically occurs in a designated room, such as a courtroom or a civil ceremony room. The ceremony is usually brief, only a few minutes, and focuses on the legal requirements of marriage. The officiant is usually a judge or a justice of the peace. However, some courthouses may allow you to bring in your own officiant.
Vows and exchange of rings
While the courthouse wedding ceremony is typically more straightforward than a traditional one, you can still personalize it to make it meaningful. Some courthouses may allow you to exchange personal vows or rings, while others may not. It’s good to check with the courthouse beforehand to see what is permitted.
Signing the marriage license
After the ceremony, you must sign the marriage license with your officiant and any required witnesses. This is an integral part of the ceremony, as it legally recognizes your marriage. You may also need to obtain a certified copy of the marriage license after the ceremony for legal purposes, such as changing your name or updating your insurance policies.
In summary, the courthouse wedding experience is typically straightforward and focuses on getting married legally. You’ll need to check in with the clerk’s office, wait for your ceremony, and exchange vows and rings if desired. After the ceremony, you must sign the marriage license with your officiant and witnesses.
After the Courthouse Wedding
Obtaining a certified copy of the marriage certificate
After your courthouse wedding, you’ll need to get a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document serves as legal proof of your marriage. It is required for various purposes, such as changing your name, updating your passport, and applying for benefits.
How to obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate can vary by state but typically involves contacting the county clerk’s office where you obtained the marriage license. You may need to provide identification and pay a fee of $15-$20 or so to obtain the certificate.
Changing your name
If you plan to change your name after getting married, there are several steps you’ll need to follow. First, you must obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate. Then, you’ll need to update your Social Security card, driver’s license or state ID, and other identification documents, such as your passport and bank accounts.
You may also need to update your name with your employer, insurance providers, and other business organizations. The process for changing your name can vary depending on where you live and which documents you need to update, so it’s a good idea to research the requirements in advance.
In summary, obtaining a certified copy of your marriage certificate is vital after your courthouse wedding, which serves as legal proof of your marriage. If you plan to change your name, you must follow specific steps to update your identification documents and accounts. It’s a good idea to research the requirements in advance and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth transition.
References
Marriage Laws by State – https://www.weddingwire.com/wedding-ideas/marriage-laws-by-state