Hale County
Marriage Certificate Requirements

Getting married is a momentous occasion that marks the beginning of a lifelong journey for two individuals deeply in love. If you’re planning to tie the knot in Greensboro, Alabama, you’ll need to know the process of obtaining a marriage certificate. The Hale County Courthouse serves as the primary authority for handling marriage certificates in the region. In this article, we will walk you through all the essential details and requirements for acquiring a marriage certificate in Greensboro, Alabama.

Introduction

The Hale County Courthouse, located at 1001 Main Street, Greensboro, Alabama, serves as the central authority for handling marriage certificates in the region. The courthouse is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday, except for Court Approved Holidays.

Alabama Marriage Certificate Changes

Under Alabama Act 2019-340, the process of obtaining a marriage certificate has undergone significant changes. Now, persons wishing to get married are no longer required to file an application for a marriage license with the county probate court. Instead, couples must obtain a standardized marriage certificate form provided by the state, county probate judge’s office, or online.

Alabama Marriage Certificate Requirements

Completing the Marriage Certificate Form

To apply for a marriage certificate, a couple must fully complete the standardized marriage certificate form, which requests basic information about each spouse. The form must be signed by both parties and then taken to a notary for witness signatures. Notary services for the form are not provided by the Probate Office.

Identification and Residency Requirements

If you are 18 or older, you must present one of the following forms of identification along with your Social Security card:

• A valid driver’s license
• Non-Driver’s license
• Passport
• A copy of your birth certificate certified by the State or County
• A military identification
• A certified school record

You do not have to be a resident of Alabama to obtain a marriage certificate.

Waiting Period and Previous Marriages

There is no waiting period in Alabama except after being divorced. In the case of divorce, there is a 60-day waiting period after the divorce is final.

If you were divorced within the last 6 months of your wedding date, you will need to show a copy of your Divorce Decree. According to Section 30-2-10 of the Alabama Code, there is a sixty (60) day restriction on getting married after a divorce.

Marriage Certificate Fee and Blood Test

The marriage certificate fee in Hale County is $75, and the preferred method of payment is cash. As of the changes to the law, a premarital blood test is no longer required in Alabama.

Name Change After Marriage

Getting a marriage certificate with your new name on it does not automatically change your name. If you need to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.

Marriage Age Requirements

For minor parties aged 16 to 17 years, the marriage certificate form requires the consent of a parent or guardian to enter into marriage. Instructions for completing and filing the new forms are included. Persons aged 18 and over can fill out a separate marriage certificate form.

Proxy Marriages and Cousin Marriages

Proxy marriages are not permitted in Alabama, so no other party may apply on behalf of either spouse. However, first and second cousins may legally marry in Alabama.

Common Law Marriages in Alabama

A valid common law marriage exists in Alabama when there is capacity to enter into a marriage, present agreement or consent to be husband and wife, public recognition of the existence of the marriage, and consummation.

Marriage Officiants in Greensboro, Alabama

Solemnization is no longer required for a recognized marriage in Alabama. You can choose from various wedding officiants in the locality to perform your wedding or vow renewal ceremony.

Expiration Date of Marriage Certificate

Marriage certificates are valid for 30 days from the date of being signed. The effective date of the marriage is the latter of the dates of the signature of the spouses.

In conclusion,

obtaining a marriage certificate in Greensboro, Alabama, is a straightforward process thanks to the recent changes in the law. Couples no longer need to apply for a marriage license; instead, they must complete a standardized marriage certificate form and deliver it to the Hale County Courthouse for recording. This contractual agreement marks the beginning of a beautiful journey together for the happy couple. Remember to verify all information with the local County Probate office before proceeding, and make sure to have all the necessary identification and documentation to make the process smooth and hassle-free. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage and may you have a lifetime of love and happiness together!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can non-residents get married in Greensboro, Alabama?

Yes, non-residents can get married in Greensboro, Alabama. There is no residency requirement to obtain a marriage certificate.

Is there a waiting period for non-residents to get married?

Non-residents who want to be married by a county marriage official may have to wait three days. To confirm whether there is a waiting period, please contact the County Probate office.

Can proxy marriages be performed in Alabama?

No, proxy marriage is not permitted in Alabama, so no other party may apply on behalf of either spouse.

Are blood tests required for getting married in Alabama?

No, a premarital blood test is no longer required in Alabama.

How long is the marriage certificate valid?

Marriage certificates are valid for 30 days from the date of being signed.