Court Marriage.

Court marriage is a civil contract where a marriage is solemnized and registered by a government official or a magistrate without religious ceremonies. It provides a straightforward and legally recognized way for couples to get married, irrespective of their religion, caste, or creed. This guide covers everything you need to know about court marriage, including its benefits, requirements, and the process involved.

Why Opt for a Court Marriage?

1. Legal Validity: Offers a legally binding and recognized union.
2. Simplicity: Involves a simple and straightforward procedure.
3. Interfaith Marriages: Suitable for couples from different religions.
4. Protection of Rights: Ensures legal rights and obligations are upheld.
5. Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than traditional wedding ceremonies.
6. No Social Pressure: Conducted in a neutral environment, free from social pressure.

Requirements for Court Marriage

1. Eligibility:

   • Both parties must be of legal age (usually 18 for women and 21 for men, but it varies by jurisdiction).
   • Both parties must be unmarried or legally divorced.
   • Parties must not be within prohibited degrees of relationship.
   • Both parties must give free and full consent to the marriage.

2. Documents Needed:

   • Proof of identity (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
   • Proof of age (e.g., birth certificate).
   • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill).
   • Passport-sized photographs of both parties.
   • Proof of marital status (e.g., divorce decree if previously married, death certificate of spouse if widowed).
   • Witnesses’ identity proof and photographs (number of witnesses required may vary).

Steps to Perform a Court Marriage

1. Notice of Intended Marriage:

   • Submit a notice of intended marriage to the local marriage registrar of the district where at least one of the parties has resided for at least 30 days prior to the notice.
   • This notice is displayed publicly to invite objections, if any, for a period of 30 days.

2. Objection Handling:

   • If an objection is raised, the marriage registrar will investigate its validity.
   • If no valid objection is found, the marriage can proceed.

3. Declaration and Solemnization:

   • After the 30-day notice period, if no objections are raised, both parties and three witnesses must sign a declaration before the marriage registrar.
   • The marriage is then solemnized in the presence of the registrar and the witnesses.

4. Marriage Certificate:

   • Upon successful solemnization, the marriage is registered, and a marriage certificate is issued.
   • The marriage certificate serves as conclusive proof of the marriage.