Brooks Probate Court Marriage License Requirements
Getting married is a significant milestone in anyone’s life, and it comes with various legal requirements, including obtaining a marriage license. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Brooks County, Georgia, understanding the marriage license fees and the application process is essential. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about marriage license fees, application requirements, waiting periods, and more.
Before you embark on your journey as a married couple, you need to ensure you have a valid marriage license. In Brooks County, Georgia, this process involves certain steps, documents, and fees.
Marriage License Application Process
To apply for a marriage license in Brooks County, both parties must appear in person at the Brooks County Probate Court. The court is located at 1 Scrivens Street, Quitman, GA 31643. The office hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, with a lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Keep in mind that the office is closed on court-approved holidays.
Required Documents
When applying for a marriage license, you’ll need to provide the following information and documents:
- ID for each applicant (Driver’s License, State ID, Resident Alien ID, Military ID, Passport)
- Certified Copies of Divorce Papers (if applicable)
- Certified Copy of Death Certificate (if applicable)
- Parents’ Birth Places (City and State)
- Mother’s Maiden Name
- The Bride’s full name after Marriage
- Date and place of marriage
Marriage License Fees
The marriage license fees vary based on whether you undergo premarital education. The fees are as follows:
- $56 without premarital counseling
- $16 with premarital counseling (must bring a certificate of completion of the course)
Additionally, there is a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license, which will be mailed to you after recording. There’s also a $10 fee for the certified copy of the license application for the Social Security Administration.
Accepted IDs for Marriage Application
When applying for a marriage license, you must present one of the following forms of identification:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Resident Alien ID
- Military ID
- Passport
Waiting Period and Residency Requirement
Fortunately, there is no waiting period for getting married in the State of Georgia. Furthermore, you don’t have to be a resident of Georgia to apply for a marriage license in Brooks County.
Previous Marriages
If either applicant has been previously married, you’ll need to provide a copy of the final judgment and decree of the most recent divorce. It must show the judge’s signature and the date the divorce was granted.
Proxy Marriages, Cousin Marriages, and Common Law Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia. However, first and second cousins are legally allowed to marry. While common-law marriages are not recognized if created after January 1, 1997, they will be recognized if established before this date.
Marriage Blood Test
As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required in Georgia for obtaining a marriage license.
Name After Marriage and Name Change
Georgia law requires each applicant to designate the legal surname they will use after marriage. This can include:
- Present surname
- Surname from a previous marriage
- Spouse’s surname
- A combination of the two spouses’ surnames
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years of age or older to apply for a marriage license without parental consent. Applicants who appear younger than 25 must provide proof of age.
Proof of Age
Acceptable proof of age includes documents like birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and more.
Marriage Officiants and Witnesses
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings. If the officiant doesn’t complete the form, two witnesses are required to obtain the marriage certificate.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
The marriage license issued in Georgia does not have an expiration date.
Applying Online and Obtaining Certificate Copies
You can apply for your marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website. After the marriage is recorded, you can obtain a copy of the certificate from the Vital Records office.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the journey to marriage. Understanding the requirements, fees, and application process can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Make sure to verify all information with the Brooks County Probate Court before proceeding with your plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I apply for a marriage license online in Brooks County, Georgia? Yes, you can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in the State of Georgia.
- What forms of identification are accepted for the marriage application? Acceptable forms of identification include Driver’s License, State ID, Resident Alien ID, Military ID, and Passport.
- Can I change my name after marriage on the marriage license? Yes, Georgia law allows you to choose a new legal surname after marriage.
- Are common-law marriages recognized in Georgia? Common-law marriages created before January 1, 1997, are recognized in Georgia.
