City/Town of Hartford Marriage License Requirements
Are wedding bells in the air? If you’re planning to tie the knot in the picturesque state of Connecticut, there are a few key details you need to know about marriage license fees, requirements, and procedures. From the bustling City Hall to finding the right officiant, we’ve got you covered with all the essential information.
Introduction
Planning a wedding involves a multitude of details, and one of the first steps is obtaining a marriage license. Connecticut offers a charming backdrop for your special day, and understanding the intricacies of obtaining a marriage license is crucial to ensure your marriage is legally recognized.
City Hall and Its Role in Marriage Licensing
City Hall, located at 550 Main St., Ground Flr., Room 103, Hartford, CT, is where the magic begins. This is the place where you initiate the process of obtaining your marriage license. The office operates from 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. (Monday to Friday), except for court-approved holidays.
Connecticut Wedding Officiants: Choosing the Perfect Fit
Selecting the right wedding officiant is a pivotal decision. Fortunately, Connecticut provides a range of options, from judges and justices of the peace to federal judges and authorized clergy members from any state.
Marriage Application Requirements in Connecticut
Before you say “I do,” there are certain requirements to fulfill. Both you and your partner must personally appear to apply for the license. While either applicant can start the process, both must sign the application before the wedding. You’ll need valid identification documents, including Social Security cards, and details about the ceremony’s officiant, location, and date.
Marriage ID Requirement in Connecticut
To validate your identity, acceptable forms of identification include birth certificates, valid driver’s licenses, passports, state ID cards, military IDs, and Alien Registration Cards (Green cards).
Marriage Waiting Period and Residency Requirement
Unlike some states, there’s no waiting period between applying for and receiving your marriage license in Connecticut. While you don’t need to be a resident of the state, you must apply in the town where one of you lives or where the marriage will take place.
Previous Marriages: Navigating the Process
If either party was previously married, you’ll need to provide divorce decree information. Changing your name? Ensure to bring a certified copy of your divorce decree.
Marriage License Fee in Connecticut: Explained
To obtain a marriage license, a fee of $30 is required. This fee covers the processing and issuance of your license, which remains valid for 65 days from the application date.
Proxy Marriages, Cousin Marriages, and Common Law Marriages
Proxy marriages aren’t allowed in Connecticut, but first and second cousins can legally marry. However, common law marriages are not recognized.
Marriage Blood Test and Name Change
Unlike the tradition in some places, Connecticut doesn’t require a blood test or physical exam. Remember, getting a marriage license with your new name doesn’t automatically change your name.
Marriage Age Requirements and Consent
If you’re under 18, you need parental consent, and if under 16, you require consent from a probate court judge. Individuals with conservators must have their conservator appear with proper identification and a consent statement.
Marriage Ceremony Requirement: Officiating Your Big Day
Before the ceremony, the officiating person (minister or justice of the peace) must be given the license. They’ll sign and date it in black ink after the ceremony, then return it to the Municipal Clerk’s Office.
Authorized Marriage Officiants in Connecticut
Connecticut boasts a variety of authorized marriage officiants, including judges, retired judges, federal judges, justices of the peace, and ordained clergy members.
Marriage Witnesses: To Have or Not to Have?
While Connecticut doesn’t mandate witnesses, religious entities may require them to be present during the ceremony.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Keep in mind that your marriage license is valid for 65 days from the application date, so plan your wedding date accordingly.
Obtaining Copies of Marriage Records
After the celebration, if you need copies of your marriage records, you can order them through everify on an expedited basis.
In conclusion, navigating the marriage license process in Connecticut is a significant step in your journey to wedded bliss. Remember, each detail ensures your commitment is legally recognized and sets the stage for a lifetime of love and happiness.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for a marriage license online? No, you must appear in person at the designated office.
2. Are same-sex marriages legal in Connecticut? Yes, Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage in 2008.
3. Can I get married anywhere in Connecticut with the license? You must marry in the town where you obtained the license.
4. Is the marriage license fee refundable? No, the fee is non-refundable even if the marriage doesn’t take place.
5. What if my officiant is from out of state? Out-of-state officiants are allowed as long as they are authorized to marry in their home state.
