Litchfield County
Marriage License Requirements
If you’re planning to tie the knot in the picturesque town of Litchfield, Connecticut, you’re in for a memorable and meaningful experience. Before you embark on this beautiful journey of love, there are a few essential details you need to know about obtaining a marriage license and ensuring a seamless wedding ceremony. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process, requirements, and everything else you need to know about getting married in Litchfield, CT.
Introduction
Congratulations on your decision to take the plunge into marital bliss in Litchfield, CT! Whether you’re a local resident or you’ve chosen this charming town for your destination wedding, the journey to obtaining a marriage license and celebrating your love is an exciting one. Let’s dive into the essential steps and requirements to ensure your big day goes off without a hitch.
Marriage Application Process
The first step towards your dream wedding is applying for a marriage license. Couples are advised to initiate this process approximately two weeks before the ceremony. Either applicant can start the application process, but both parties must appear in person before the wedding to sign the application.
Required Documentation
To successfully apply for a marriage license, you’ll need the following documents:
- Valid form of identification (driver’s license, resident ID, passport, or birth certificate)
- Social Security cards
- Name, address, and phone number of the person performing the ceremony
- Address of the wedding venue
- Date of marriage
- $30 marriage license fee
Marriage License Fee and Validity
The marriage license fee in Connecticut is $30. Keep in mind that the marriage license is valid for 65 days from the date of application. It’s important to plan your wedding date accordingly within this timeframe.
Marriage Waiting Period
Unlike some states, Connecticut does not impose a waiting period between applying for and receiving your marriage license. This means you can swiftly move forward with your wedding plans once you have the license in hand.
Marriage Residency Requirement
While you don’t need to be a resident of Connecticut to get married here, you must apply for the license in the town where one of the applicants lives or where the wedding will take place. This flexibility ensures that your wedding plans can be tailored to your preferences.
Previous Marriages and Name Change
If either party has been previously married, you’ll need to provide relevant documentation, such as a divorce decree or information about the previous spouse’s date, county, and state of death. If your name has changed, be sure to bring a certified copy of your divorce decree.
Marriage Age Requirements
If you’re under the age of 18, you’ll need written consent from a parent, guardian, or probate court judge. For those under 16, written consent from a probate court judge is necessary. If one of the parties has a conservator, additional steps are involved to ensure proper consent.
Marriage Ceremony and Officiants
Before your ceremony, you must present the marriage license to the officiating person, whether it’s a minister, justice of the peace, or other authorized individuals. They’ll sign and date the license after the ceremony and return it to the Municipal Clerk’s Office.
Marriage Witnesses
Connecticut doesn’t require witnesses for a marriage ceremony, although religious institutions might have different guidelines. This provides couples with flexibility and simplicity when it comes to the ceremony.
Expiration Date of Marriage License
As mentioned earlier, the marriage license is valid for 65 days from the date of application. Therefore, your wedding date should not be more than 65 days after you apply for the license.
Conclusion
Your journey to a joyful and unforgettable wedding experience in Litchfield, CT, starts with understanding the essential steps and requirements for obtaining a marriage license. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on this exciting chapter of your life. Remember, the picturesque town of Litchfield awaits as the perfect backdrop for your love story.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can we apply for a marriage license online? Unfortunately, Connecticut does not currently offer online marriage license applications.
- Are proxy marriages allowed in Connecticut? No, proxy marriages are not permitted in the state.
- Is there a waiting period between applying for the license and the wedding? No, there is no waiting period in Connecticut.
- Who can officiate our wedding ceremony? Connecticut judges, federal judges, justices of the peace, and ordained clergy can officiate.
- What is the cost of a marriage license in Connecticut? The marriage license fee is $30.
