Lincoln County
Marriage License Requirements
Marriage is a sacred and joyous union that marks the beginning of a new chapter in a couple’s life. However, before you say “I do,” there are certain legal requirements you need to fulfill to obtain a marriage license. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of acquiring a marriage license in Hugo, Colorado, including the fee, application process, necessary documentation, and more.
Understanding the Marriage License Fee
To begin the journey towards marital bliss, couples must first pay a marriage license fee. In Hugo, Colorado, this fee is set at a reasonable $30.00. This fee contributes to the administrative costs associated with processing your application and preparing the legal documentation necessary for your marriage.
The Application Process
To apply for a marriage license, both partners must appear in person at the designated office. This ensures that both parties are willingly entering into the union. If one of the individuals cannot be present due to extenuating circumstances, they can submit an absentee application, which must be notarized in advance.
Identification Requirements
When applying for a marriage license, valid identification is crucial. Accepted forms of identification include a Driver’s License issued in the United States, a Passport, Military ID, or a State-issued ID Card. Additionally, if a party doesn’t have a social security number, they can sign an affidavit provided by the County Clerk’s office.
Marriage Waiting Period
Unlike some states, there is no waiting period for getting married in Colorado. This means that as soon as you’ve obtained your marriage license, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony.
Residency Requirements
Good news for those planning a destination wedding in Colorado: there are no residency requirements for obtaining a marriage license. You don’t have to be a resident of Colorado to get married here.
Previous Marriages
If you or your partner have been previously married and the divorce was finalized within the last 30 days, you’ll need to present the final decree. For divorces finalized more than 30 days prior, you’ll need to provide information about the date, place, and court of divorce.
Proxy Marriages
In situations where one party cannot be present due to illness, being out of the state, or incarceration, they can still obtain an absentee application to proceed with the marriage.
Cousin Marriages
Colorado allows first and second cousins to legally marry.
Common Law Marriages
Yes, common law marriages are recognized in Colorado.
Marriage Blood Test
Colorado does not require couples to undergo blood tests before getting married.
Name Change After Marriage
Getting a marriage license with your new name on it doesn’t automatically change your name. If you wish to change your last name, you can use an online marriage name change kit.
Marriage Age Requirements
The legal age to marry without parental consent is 18 years old. For ages 16 or 17, a written and notarized Parental Consent Form is required.
Marriage Officiants
Couples can solemnize their own marriage in Colorado. Other authorized officiants include judges, retired judges, magistrates, Indian tribe officials, and clergy. Self-solemnizing couples receive instructions during the license application process.
Marriage Witnesses
Witnesses are not required in Colorado, although some officiants may request them.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
Your marriage license is valid for 35 days. The completed marriage certificate must be returned to the County Clerk’s office within 63 days after the ceremony.
Where to Get a Copy of the Marriage Certificate
For those seeking a copy of their marriage certificate, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is the place to go. The address and contact information can be found at the end of this article.
Conclusion
As you embark on this beautiful journey of matrimony, understanding the process of obtaining a marriage license is essential. From the application process to identification requirements and beyond, Hugo, Colorado, provides a straightforward and efficient process. Now that you’re equipped with this knowledge, you can confidently take the next steps towards your dream wedding.
FAQs
- How much is the marriage license fee in Hugo, Colorado? The marriage license fee in Hugo, Colorado, is $30.00.
- Is there a waiting period for getting married in Colorado? No, there is no waiting period for getting married in the state of Colorado.
- Do both parties need to be Colorado residents to obtain a marriage license? No, residency in Colorado is not a requirement for obtaining a marriage license.
- What identification is needed to apply for a marriage license? Valid identification includes a Driver’s License, Passport, Military ID, or State-issued ID Card.
- Can couples solemnize their own marriage in Colorado? Yes, couples can solemnize their own marriage in Colorado, following the provided instructions.
