Chattahoochee Probate Court
Marriage License Requirements
Marriage is a significant life event that marks the union of two individuals in love. However, amidst the excitement of planning the wedding, it’s essential not to overlook the legal aspects, such as obtaining a marriage license. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Cusseta, Georgia, understanding the intricacies of marriage license fees and requirements is crucial. Let’s delve into the details to ensure your journey towards marital bliss is smooth and well-informed.
Getting married is a joyous occasion, and if you’re planning to exchange vows in Cusseta, Georgia, you’ll need to acquire a marriage license from the Chattahoochee County Probate Court.
Marriage License Application Process
Applying for a marriage license involves several steps. It’s essential to understand and follow these steps to ensure a seamless process.
Required Documents
When applying for a marriage license, specific documents are necessary to verify your identity and eligibility for marriage.
ID for Each Applicant
Both parties must present valid identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID, resident alien ID, military ID, or passport.
Court Approved Translator for Non-English Speakers
If either applicant doesn’t speak fluent English, a court-approved translator is required to apply for the marriage license.
Certified Copies of Divorce Papers or Death Certificate (if applicable)
Applicants with prior marriages must provide certified copies of divorce papers or a death certificate if widowed.
Parents’ Birth Place and Mother’s Maiden Name
You’ll need to know your parents’ birthplace (city and state) and your mother’s maiden name.
The Bride’s Full Name After Marriage
The bride needs to decide on the surname she will use after marriage.
Date and Place of Marriage
You’ll need to specify the planned date and location of the marriage.
Application Fees
Marriage license application fees vary based on whether you’ve undergone pre-marital counseling.
Without Premarital Counseling
The application fee is $56 for couples not completing pre-marital counseling.
With Premarital Counseling
Couples who have completed pre-marital counseling can apply for a reduced fee of $16 by providing a certificate of course completion.
Contacting Chattahoochee County Probate Court
Reach out to the local Chattahoochee County Probate Court well in advance to learn about office hours and availability.
Accepted IDs for Marriage
Several types of identification are accepted, including driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
Waiting Period and Residency Requirements
There is no waiting period to get married in Georgia, and you don’t have to be a resident of the state.
Previous Marriages
If either applicant has had a previous divorce, documentation of the final judgment and decree is required.
Marriage License Fees
The fees for obtaining a marriage license in Chattahoochee County are $56 without premarital education and $16 with premarital education. Additionally, there’s a $10 charge for the certified copy of the marriage license.
Proxy Marriages and Cousin Marriages
Proxy marriages are not allowed in Georgia, but first and second cousins can legally marry.
Common Law Marriages and Blood Test Requirements
Common-law marriages are recognized if established before January 1, 1997, and blood tests are not required since July 1, 2003.
Name Change After Marriage
Applicants can choose to retain their present surname, use the surname of a previous marriage, or adopt their spouse’s surname.
Marriage Age Requirements
Both applicants must be 18 years or older. Applicants aged 16 or 17 require parental consent, and individuals under 16 cannot marry.
Proof of Age Documents
Valid proof of age includes birth certificates, driver’s licenses, baptismal certificates, and other official documents.
Authorized Marriage Officiants and Witnesses
Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, pastors, and justices of the peace can officiate weddings. Two witnesses may be required if the officiant doesn’t complete the form.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
A Georgia marriage license doesn’t have an expiration date.
Applying for a Marriage License Online
Couples can conveniently apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
Obtaining a Copy of the Marriage License Certificate
After the marriage is recorded, couples can request a certified copy of the marriage license from Vital Records.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the journey towards marriage. By understanding the requirements, fees, and process involved, couples can ensure that their union is legally recognized.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Georgia?There is no waiting period to get married in the State of Georgia.
- Can I apply for a marriage license online?Yes, you can apply for a marriage license online through the Georgia Probate Record website.
- What are the accepted IDs for marriage?Accepted IDs include driver’s licenses, state IDs, resident alien IDs, military IDs, and passports.
- Is blood testing required for marriage in Georgia?Blood tests are no longer required for marriage in Georgia as of July 1, 2003.
- How much does a marriage license cost in Chattahoochee County?The fees for a marriage license in Chattahoochee County are $56 without premarital education and $16 with premarital education.
