Wedding Laws and Prenuptial Agreements

Pertinent Documents Completed and Signed

Prior to exchanging vows and thereafter, there are various documents which need to be filled out and signed by the parties involved with the matrimony. Before the couple is wed, they will most likely have to fill out a marriage license application in their specific locale. In addition, certain documentation may need to be presented showing that blood tests have been submitted by the couple and they have the required results.

Certain Individuals Cannot Be Married

It is also pertinent that the couple being married checks with their local city/county/state offices to ensure that they can be wed. There are certain individuals who cannot be married in various locations. For example, certain types of relatives are not allowed to be married in various locations depending on their relationship. Therefore, it is important for all couples to check with their local governmental agencies to ensure that they are able to be legally wed should an issue surrounding this topic arise.

Waiting Periods

Certain locales will also have specific legality standards whereby the couple needs to wait a certain period of time prior to getting married. This usually occurs with regard to the time period between the signing of the marriage application and the day of the wedding ceremony. There are a few reasons for doing so such as providing time to get the documents in order and ensure that the couple is not rushing into anything without prior thought and contemplation.

Who Can Officiate Over the Wedding Ceremony

It is also pertinent to check out who can hold the wedding ceremony and be the marrying official at the ceremony. Again, depending on the location in which the individuals reside, there are certain laws and regulations which state who can officiate over the marriage ceremony. This is to prevent against individuals marrying a couple without the proper and necessary authority to do so. Frequently the individual who officiates over the wedding is a minister, pastor, priest, judge or public official. The title of the marriage official will depend on the area in which the wedding takes place.

Conclusion

Ensuring that the wedding ceremony is official and legal is an extremely important thing for the couple to do. As a simple mistake can make a marriage null and void, checking with one’s local governmental office about marriage requirements will help to make the wedding process go that much more smoothly.