Russell County
Marriage Certificate Requirements
Introduction
Navigating the legal requirements for obtaining a marriage certificate in Russell County, Alabama, has become simpler due to the enactment of Alabama Act 2019-340. This article will guide you through the essential details of the process, ensuring you understand the prerequisites for obtaining a marriage certificate. From eligibility criteria to necessary documentation, we’ve got you covered.
Marriage Certificate Basics
Before delving into the specifics, let’s establish a foundational understanding of marriage certificates. A marriage certificate represents a legally binding agreement between two parties who intend to enter into the institution of marriage. With the implementation of Alabama Act 2019-340, certain procedural changes have been introduced to streamline the process.
Eligibility and Application
Legal Age Requirements
- Legal Age with Parental Consent: 16.
- Legal Age without Parental Consent: 18.
Whether you’re of legal age with parental consent or independently eligible, Alabama recognizes the rights of both parties to enter into marriage.
Same-Sex Marriage
Alabama acknowledges and respects the right to same-sex marriage, ensuring that inclusivity and equality are upheld.
Waiting Period and Validity
Intriguingly, there’s no waiting period in Alabama for obtaining a marriage certificate. Furthermore, the certificate’s validity extends for 30 days from the date of issuance.
Simplified Process Under Ala. Act 2019-340
Filing Application for Marriage License
Under Alabama Act 2019-340, the requirement for filing an application for a marriage license with the county probate court has been eliminated. This simplifies the process and eliminates unnecessary bureaucratic steps.
Recording Marriage Certificates
All Alabama probate courts are now mandated to record marriage certificates, replacing the previous issuance of marriage licenses. This change in procedure ensures that the documentation is efficiently maintained.
Completing the Marriage Certificate Form
Standardized Form
To proceed with obtaining a marriage certificate, you must obtain a standardized marriage certificate form provided by the state, county probate judge’s office, or online.
Notarization
The completed form must be witnessed and notarized by a notary public. Notary services are not provided by the Probate Office.
Submission and Recording
Once the form is fully completed, notarized, and signed, it should be submitted to the county Probate Judge’s office for recording. The submission must occur within 30 days of being signed.
Identification Requirements
Acceptable Forms of Identification
Applicants aged 18 and older must provide one of the following forms of identification along with their Social Security card:
- A valid driver’s license
- Non-driver’s license
- Passport
- Certified copy of birth certificate
- Military identification
- Certified school record
Divorce and Remarriage
For those who have been divorced, there’s a 60-day waiting period after the divorce is finalized before applying for a marriage license.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Russell County marriage certificate requirements have been notably simplified and streamlined under Alabama Act 2019-340. Whether you’re seeking to marry with parental consent, independently, or as a same-sex couple, the process is designed to ensure ease of access while maintaining legal standards. The elimination of unnecessary steps, the inclusion of diverse couples, and the emphasis on accuracy make the process efficient and inclusive.
FAQs
- What is Alabama Act 2019-340?Alabama Act 2019-340 is legislation that restructured the process of obtaining marriage certificates in the state, eliminating the need for marriage license applications and replacing them with the recording of marriage certificates.
- Is there a waiting period for obtaining a marriage certificate in Alabama?No, there is no waiting period for obtaining a marriage certificate in Alabama, except for cases involving recent divorces.
- What forms of identification are accepted for obtaining a marriage certificate?Acceptable forms of identification include a valid driver’s license, non-driver’s license, passport, certified birth certificate, military identification, and certified school record.
- Can proxy marriages be conducted in Alabama?No, proxy marriages are not permitted in Alabama. Both parties must be present for the marriage ceremony.
- What is the expiration date of a marriage certificate in Alabama?Marriage certificates are valid for 30 days from the date of signing by both parties.
