I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.
See all posts Frank GogolHow to Set Up a Courthouse Wedding Explained
Updated on November 21, 2023
Written by
Written by
At a Glance: A courthouse wedding is a non-religious ceremony conducted by a legal official. It requires a marriage license and essential paperwork. The ceremony is brief, lasting about 20 minutes, and the couple signs the marriage certificate. Courthouse weddings are recognized as valid marriages and can be personalized. They are a cost-effective option and open to both U.S. citizens and non-citizens. The waiting period to get married varies.
Looking to learn how to set up a courthouse wedding? Whether you’re looking for a simple, cost-effective, and personalized wedding option or exploring the idea of a courthouse wedding for other reasons, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will guide you through the process of planning and preparing for a courthouse wedding, including the legalities involved, essential steps to take, and what to expect on your wedding day. Let’s dive in and make your courthouse wedding a memorable and special occasion!
What is a Courthouse Wedding?
A courthouse wedding, also known as a civil wedding or civil ceremony, is a non-religious marriage ceremony conducted by a legal official, such as a judge or court clerk, rather than a religious figure. These weddings take place in a courthouse or another government building and are legally recognized.
Understanding Legalities and Certificates
Courthouse weddings, although less traditional than religious ceremonies, are fully recognized as valid marriages, especially for marriage green card applications. One key distinction in a courthouse wedding is the involvement of a legal official, like a judge or court clerk, rather than a religious figure, to preside over the ceremony.
Marriage License vs. Marriage Certificate
Understanding the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate is crucial. A marriage license is a legal document that you and your partner must obtain prior to your wedding. It acts as an application to get married. However, it’s not the same as the marriage certificate, which is issued after your wedding ceremony, signed by you, your partner, and the officiant, and then returned to the county to create an official record of your marriage.
Planning Your Courthouse Wedding
Planning a courthouse wedding requires a few essential steps, each crucial for ensuring the legality and smooth flow of your special day.
Step 1: Choosing the Location
The location of your wedding can vary. While many prefer to marry in their current city, others might choose a location with sentimental value. It’s important to research local regulations, as some states might require you to apply for a marriage license in the town where you plan to live post-marriage. This information is typically available at the local city or county clerk’s office.
Step 2: Marriage License Application
A marriage license is mandatory. The requirements for obtaining one can differ by county, including varying waiting periods and expiry dates. In some places, you can marry the same day you receive your license, while others might require a waiting period. Essential documents generally include a valid government-issued photo ID and, if applicable, divorce papers. License fees also apply.
Step 3: Gathering Essential Paperwork
Before your wedding day, ensure you have all necessary paperwork, including the marriage license and identification for both you and your partner. Also, you will need witnesses over the age of 18; some courthouses require one, others two. All these documents must be presented at the courthouse on your wedding day.
Step 4: Scheduling and Preparing for the Wedding
After organizing your paperwork and witnesses, schedule your wedding date. Consider any waiting period for your marriage license and its expiry date. Although it’s a civil ceremony, it can be personalized to reflect your preferences. Think about attire, photography, and whether to invite guests. Remember, most courthouse ceremonies occur on weekdays during business hours.
The Wedding Day Experience
Your courthouse wedding day is a culmination of your planning and preparation. Typically, civil marriage ceremonies are brief, lasting about 20 minutes. During the ceremony, you and your partner will sign the marriage certificate, which is the official legal documentation of your marriage. This moment marks the formal union between you and your spouse. While the ceremony itself may be short, it’s an intimate and significant event, marking the start of a new chapter in your lives together.
Read More
- Guide to Wedding Certificates in the U.S.
- What is a “Bona Fide” Marriage?
- What Is a Domestic Partnership?
Final Thoughts
A courthouse wedding is cheap, quick, and easy to personalize. You can design a ceremony that suits your taste. You can focus on the couple joining in matrimony. If you plan properly, a courthouse wedding can be a fantastic way to celebrate your special day.
Courthouse Weddings FAQ
Are courthouse weddings legally recognized?
Yes, courthouse weddings are fully recognized as valid marriages. They are conducted by a legal official and have the same legal status as traditional religious ceremonies.
What is the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate?
A marriage license is a legal document that you obtain before your wedding, while a marriage certificate is issued after the ceremony. The license is an application to get married, whereas the certificate is the official record of your marriage.
How do I apply for a marriage license for a courthouse wedding?
To apply for a marriage license, you will typically need to visit your local city or county clerk’s office. Requirements may vary, but you will generally need valid government-issued photo IDs and any necessary divorce papers.
Can I personalize my courthouse wedding ceremony?
Yes, although courthouse ceremonies are often brief, you can still personalize them. Consider your attire, photography, and whether you want to invite guests. Discuss any preferences with the courthouse officials.
Do I need witnesses for a courthouse wedding?
Some courthouses require witnesses, while others may not. Check with your local courthouse to determine if witnesses are necessary and if so, how many.
Can I have a courthouse wedding on a weekend?
Most courthouse ceremonies occur on weekdays during business hours. Check with your local courthouse for their specific schedule and availability.
How long does a courthouse wedding ceremony typically last?
Courthouse ceremonies are usually brief, lasting about 20 minutes. However, the exact duration may vary depending on the courthouse and any personalized elements you choose to include.
Is a courthouse wedding a good option for couples on a budget?
Yes, courthouse weddings are often a cost-effective option. They are generally cheaper than traditional weddings and can be personalized to suit your preferences within a smaller budget.
Can I have a courthouse wedding if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, courthouse weddings are open to both U.S. citizens and non-citizens. However, it is essential to ensure that you meet all the legal requirements and have the necessary documentation for your marriage.
How soon can I get married after obtaining a marriage license for a courthouse wedding?
The waiting period to get married after obtaining a marriage license can vary by location. Some places allow you to marry the same day, while others may have a waiting period of a few days. Check with your local courthouse for specific details.
Frank Gogol
I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.