Skip to main content

Post content has been hidden

To unblock this content, please click here

M
Just Said Yes May 2020

Marrying without a state license

Maggie, on March 19, 2020 at 11:36 AM Posted in Community Conversations 0 5

Hey folks -- quick question. Our wedding is April 25, 2020 -- we are postponing the reception and just having a small ceremony with the priest and our parents (not what we planned, obviously, but what are you going to do?). Our vendors have been amazing so far, which is a blessing.


I called the Baltimore City circuit court today, to find out that it is physically impossible for us to get a marriage license because everything is closed. I know I'll sound ignorant for asking, but is it still okay for my fiance and I to get married in a religious ceremony without the state license? We'll obviously go get the license as soon as we can after the offices reopen and the like, but will we be in any sort of legal trouble for just going ahead anyway?


Thanks for your help!

5 Comments

Latest activity by Stephanie, on March 19, 2020 at 2:34 PM
  • Caytlyn
    Legend November 2019
    Caytlyn ·
    • Flag
    • Hide content
    You can’t be in legal trouble for having a religious commitment ceremony, but it wouldn’t be your legal wedding date.
    • Reply
  • S
    Dedicated October 2020
    Sarah ·
    • Flag
    • Hide content
    It depends on the state your in and what requirements they have for the license. They may not recognize a ceremony that took place before the license was issued.
    • Reply
  • Sarah
    Master September 2019
    Sarah ·
    • Flag
    • Hide content
    You won’t be in any legal trouble. You just won’t be married according to the state.
    • Reply
  • Renay
    Devoted April 2020
    Renay ·
    • Flag
    • Hide content

    We are set to get married the same day. We applied for our license yesterday, and are going to the courthouse to pick it up today (hopefully, unless they close in the next 4 hours). My concern at this point is not being able to return it to be filed within the window... I am very attached to the date as it was my late father's birthday. I figure worst case if our "legal" wedding date is later, at least we will know that our vows to each other were said on 4/25/20.

    All my love and support to you guys. We are in uncharted and terrifying times.


    • Reply
  • Stephanie
    Dedicated April 2021
    Stephanie ·
    • Flag
    • Hide content
    Agree with the above. You can have a symbolic ceremony but in the eyes of the state/govt you won't be able to claim legal marriage for taxes, benefits, etc. The pastor/officiant has to sign the marriage license for it to be legal plus sending it in.
    • Reply

You voted for . Add a comment 👇

×

Related articles

WeddingWire celebrates love ...and so does everyone on our site! Learn more

Groups

WeddingWire article topics