As an expert in state laws in St. Leonard, Maryland, I have helped many couples navigate the process of obtaining a marriage license. While every state has its own set of laws and requirements, it is important to understand the specific process for obtaining a marriage license in St. Leonard.
What is a Marriage License?
A marriage license is a legal document that allows two individuals to get married.It serves as proof that the couple has met all the necessary requirements and is legally allowed to enter into a marriage. In St. Leonard, Maryland, a marriage license is issued by the Clerk of the Circuit Court. This office is responsible for maintaining all marriage records and issuing marriage licenses to eligible couples.
Eligibility Requirements
In order to obtain a marriage license in St. Leonard, both individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements.These include:
- Age: Both individuals must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, they must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
- Identification: Both individuals must provide valid identification such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport.
- Previous Marriages: If either party has been previously married, they must provide documentation of the dissolution of the previous marriage (e.g. divorce decree or death certificate).
- Blood Tests: Unlike some states, St. Leonard does not require blood tests for marriage licenses.
The Application Process
The application process for obtaining a marriage license in St.Leonard is relatively straightforward. Both individuals must appear in person at the Clerk of the Circuit Court's office and fill out an application. The application will ask for basic information such as names, addresses, and social security numbers. Once the application is completed, both individuals must sign it in the presence of a clerk. The application fee is $35, which can be paid in cash or by credit card. After the application is submitted, there is a 48-hour waiting period before the marriage license can be issued.
This waiting period is waived for active duty military personnel.
The Marriage Ceremony
Once the marriage license is issued, it is valid for six months. This means that the couple must get married within six months of receiving the license. The marriage ceremony can be performed by any authorized individual, including a judge, minister, or other religious official. After the ceremony, the officiant will sign the marriage license and return it to the Clerk of the Circuit Court's office for recording. Once recorded, the marriage becomes legal and the couple will receive a certified copy of their marriage certificate.Additional Considerations
While obtaining a marriage license in St.Leonard may seem like a simple process, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:
- Residency: There are no residency requirements for obtaining a marriage license in St. Leonard. This means that couples from out of state can also get married here.
- Same-Sex Marriage: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Maryland since 2013. Therefore, all couples are subject to the same requirements and process for obtaining a marriage license.
- Name Changes: When getting married in St. Leonard, couples have the option to change their last name.
This can be done by indicating the desired name change on the marriage license application.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in St. Leonard, Maryland is a relatively simple process as long as both individuals meet the eligibility requirements and follow the necessary steps. It is important to keep in mind that state laws and requirements may change, so it is always best to check with the Clerk of the Circuit Court's office for the most up-to-date information. As an expert in state laws in St. Leonard, I hope this article has provided valuable insight into the process of obtaining a marriage license in this area.Whether you are a local resident or planning a destination wedding, understanding the requirements and steps involved will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
