Getting Married in Connecticut: A Guide to Courthouse Weddings

The Bridal Tip

Getting married at a courthouse in Connecticut is a simple and efficient way to tie the knot. Whether you’re looking for a quick and low-key ceremony or you want to save money on a larger wedding, a courthouse wedding in CT could be the perfect option for you.

To get started, you and your future spouse will need to appear in person at the local vital records office of the town where you plan to get married. This is where you will apply for a marriage license. It’s important to note that you must both be eligible to be married in order to obtain a marriage license.

The process of obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut is relatively quick. Unlike some states, there is no waiting period, so you can apply for and receive a marriage license on the same day. However, it’s a good idea to call ahead to the vital records office to confirm their specific requirements and to make an appointment if necessary.

When you apply for a marriage license, there is a fee of $50. This fee must be paid at the time the license is issued. Make sure to bring the necessary payment with you to the vital records office.

Once you have your marriage license, you are ready to plan your courthouse wedding. In Connecticut, a ceremony is required by law in order for the marriage to be legally recognized. The ceremony must be officiated by someone other than the person who issued your license. This means that you’ll need to find an officiant to perform your ceremony.

While there are no special elopement laws in Connecticut, a courthouse wedding can still be a simple and intimate affair. You can choose to invite a small number of guests to witness your ceremony or keep it private with just you and your spouse-to-be. Many courthouses in Connecticut offer a designated space for wedding ceremonies, providing a convenient and official setting for your special day.

After your ceremony, your officiant will sign your marriage license, along with you and your spouse-to-be. The completed license must then be returned to the vital records office within a specified timeframe to officially register your marriage.

A courthouse wedding in Connecticut is a straightforward and efficient way to get married. With no waiting period and a quick application process, you can obtain your marriage license and have your ceremony on the same day. Just remember to follow the necessary steps and requirements to ensure that your marriage is legally recognized.

How Do You Get Married At The Courthouse In CT?

To get married at the courthouse in Connecticut, you will need to follow a few steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to obtain a marriage license and get married at the courthouse in CT:

1. Find the local vital records office: Locate the vital records office in the town where you plan to get married. Each town in Connecticut has its own vital records office, so make sure you find the correct one.

2. Make an appointment: Contact the vital records office and schedule an appointment. It is essential to appear in person to apply for a marriage license, so make sure both you and your spouse-to-be can attend the appointment.

3. Gather necessary documents: Before your appointment, gather all the required documents. You will typically need the following:

– Valid identification: Bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card.

– Proof of age and citizenship: You may need to provide a birth certificate or passport to verify your age and citizenship.

– Divorce or death certificates: If either you or your spouse-to-be were previously married, bring the divorce decree or death certificate to prove the termination of the previous marriage(s).

– Social Security numbers: You may be required to provide your Social Security numbers or cards.

It’s recommended to call the vital records office beforehand to confirm the specific documents they require.

4. Complete the marriage license application: At the appointment, you will be given a marriage license application form to complete. Provide accurate and detailed information about both you and your spouse-to-be. This information typically includes full names, addresses, dates of birth, and parents’ names.

5. Pay the fee: There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license. The fee varies depending on the town, so be prepared to pay the required amount. Payment methods accepted may include cash, check, or credit/debit card. Confirm the acceptable payment methods with the vital records office beforehand.

6. Obtain the marriage license: After completing the application and paying the fee, the vital records office will issue your marriage license. The license is typically issued immediately or within a few business days. Remember to inquire about the office’s processing time.

7. Plan your courthouse wedding: Once you have the marriage license in hand, you can schedule your courthouse wedding. Contact the courthouse to inquire about available dates and times for civil ceremonies. Some courthouses may require you to make an appointment, while others may have designated wedding hours.

8. Get married at the courthouse: On the scheduled date, both you and your spouse-to-be must appear at the courthouse for the wedding ceremony. The ceremony will be conducted by a justice of the peace or other authorized individual. Make sure to bring your marriage license, identification, and any additional documents required by the courthouse.

9. Obtain a certified copy of the marriage certificate: After the wedding ceremony, you can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the vital records office. This certified copy serves as legal proof of your marriage and may be required for various purposes, such as changing your last name or updating your marital status on official documents.

Remember that the process may vary slightly depending on the town or courthouse you choose. It’s always a good idea to contact the local vital records office and courthouse in advance to confirm the specific requirements and procedures for getting married at the courthouse in Connecticut.

courthouse wedding ct

How To Get Married In CT At Town Hall?

To get married in Connecticut at Town Hall, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Find the Town Hall: Identify the specific Town Hall in Connecticut where you want to get married. Each town has its own vital records office that issues marriage licenses.

2. Gather Required Documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents before visiting the Town Hall. These typically include:

– Proof of Identity: Bring a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card.
– Proof of Age: Provide a certified birth certificate or a valid passport to verify your age.
– Proof of Divorce or Death (if applicable): If you were previously married, bring the divorce decree or death certificate of your former spouse to demonstrate the termination of the previous marriage.

3. Visit the Town Hall: Go to the vital records office at the Town Hall during their business hours. You may need to schedule an appointment in advance, so it’s a good idea to call and check their requirements.

4. Complete the Marriage License Application: Fill out the marriage license application form provided by the vital records office. The form will require information such as your full names, addresses, social security numbers, and the intended date and location of the marriage ceremony.

5. Pay the Marriage License Fee: The marriage license fee in Connecticut is $50.00. Ensure you have the payment ready in the form of cash, check, or any other acceptable method specified by the Town Hall.

6. Obtain the Marriage License: Once you have submitted the completed application and paid the fee, the vital records office will issue you a marriage license. The license is typically granted immediately or after a waiting period, depending on the town’s regulations.

7. Plan the Wedding Ceremony: With the marriage license in hand, you can now proceed with planning your wedding ceremony. It can take place at the Town Hall or any other location of your choice within Connecticut.

Remember to check with the specific Town Hall for any additional requirements or rules they may have. It’s also advisable to start the process well in advance to allow for any potential delays or complications.

Can You Get A Marriage License And Get Married The Same Day In CT?

In Connecticut, it is possible to get a marriage license and get married on the same day. The process of obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut is relatively quick and does not involve a waiting period.

To get a marriage license in Connecticut, you and your partner must visit the town clerk’s office in the town where either of you resides. You will both need to bring valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to prove your identity and age.

Once at the town clerk’s office, you will need to complete a marriage license application form. The application will require basic information about both individuals, including full names, addresses, dates of birth, and social security numbers. You may also need to provide information about any previous marriages, such as the date and place of divorce or death if applicable.

After completing the application form, you will be required to pay a fee for the marriage license. The fee varies depending on the town, so it’s advisable to check with the specific town clerk’s office for the exact amount. Accepted forms of payment also vary, so it’s a good idea to have cash or a check with you.

Once the application is submitted and the fee is paid, the town clerk will review the application and issue the marriage license. This process usually takes a short amount of time, and you may receive the license on the same day.

With the marriage license in hand, you are legally allowed to get married. You can plan your wedding ceremony and celebrate your marriage immediately if you wish.

It is important to note that the marriage license is valid for 65 days from the date of issuance. This means that you must get married within that timeframe, or you will need to apply for a new license.

Getting a marriage license and getting married on the same day is possible in Connecticut. The process involves visiting the town clerk’s office, completing an application, paying a fee, and receiving the marriage license. Once you have the license, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony.

How Do I Get Married In CT Without A Ceremony?

To get married in Connecticut without a ceremony, you would need to explore the option of a self-uniting marriage. However, it’s important to note that self-uniting marriages are not legally recognized in Connecticut.

Alternatively, you could consider having a simple ceremony or elopement with just you and your partner, keeping it small and intimate. While Connecticut law does require a ceremony, there are no specific guidelines regarding the size or format of the ceremony. This gives you some flexibility in planning a ceremony that suits your preferences.

Here are the steps to legally get married in Connecticut:

1. Obtain a marriage license: Both you and your partner must apply for a marriage license in person at the town clerk’s office in any Connecticut town. You will need to provide identification documents such as a valid photo ID and your Social Security numbers. The fee for a marriage license varies by town.

2. Wait for the waiting period: After applying for the marriage license, there is a mandatory waiting period of at least 24 hours before the license is issued. The license is valid for 65 days from the date of issuance.

3. Find an officiant: Connecticut law requires that a ceremony be conducted by an authorized officiant. This can be a judge, justice of the peace, or a member of the clergy. The officiant will perform the ceremony and sign the marriage license.

4. Plan the ceremony: While there are no specific requirements for the ceremony, you can customize it to your liking. You may choose to have a small gathering with close family and friends or keep it private with just you and your partner. The ceremony can take place at a location of your choice, such as a park, beach, or even your own backyard.

5. Exchange vows and sign the license: During the ceremony, you and your partner will exchange vows and rings if desired. The officiant will then sign the marriage license, along with two witnesses over the age of 18. After the ceremony, the officiant will submit the completed license to the town clerk’s office for recording.

6. Obtain a marriage certificate: Once the license is recorded, you can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the town clerk. This document serves as legal proof of your marriage.

Remember, while you may wish to forgo a traditional ceremony, Connecticut law still requires some form of ceremony to solemnize the marriage. It is best to consult with the town clerk’s office or a legal professional to ensure you are following all necessary procedures and requirements.

Conclusion

A courthouse wedding in Connecticut is a simple and efficient way to legally marry your partner. Obtaining a marriage license is a straightforward process that requires both parties to appear in person at the local vital records office of the town where the marriage will take place. There is a $50.00 fee for each marriage license, which must be paid at the time of issuance.

One of the advantages of getting married at a courthouse is that there is no waiting period, meaning you can receive your marriage license and get married on the same day if you wish. The approval process for the license is also relatively quick, making it convenient for couples looking to tie the knot without any delay.

It is important to note that Connecticut law requires a ceremony to accompany the issuance of the marriage license. The ceremony must be officiated by someone other than the person who issues the license. This ensures that the act of marriage is properly solemnized. It is worth mentioning that there are no special elopement laws in Connecticut, meaning that the couple cannot simply sign the license and be considered married. The ceremony itself is an essential part of the process.

A courthouse wedding in Connecticut offers a practical and efficient way for couples to legally marry. With no waiting period and a straightforward approval process, it allows couples to formalize their union quickly. By adhering to the requirement of a ceremony, the state ensures that marriages are legally binding and properly celebrated.