The Ultimate Guide to Getting Legally Married in Texas
Getting legally married in Texas is an exciting and life-changing event. Whether you`re a Texas native or planning a destination wedding, it`s important to be familiar with the legal requirements and procedures for getting married in the Lone Star State. In this blog post, we`ll explore everything you need to know about obtaining a marriage license, finding an officiant, and registering your marriage in Texas.
Marriage License Requirements
Before you can tie the knot in Texas, you`ll need to obtain a marriage license from a county clerk`s office. Both parties must appear in person and provide valid identification, such as a driver`s license, passport, or birth certificate. If either party divorced, provide date county divorce. Additionally, couples under the age of 18 must have parental consent to get married in Texas. The following table highlights the marriage license requirements for some of the most populous counties in Texas:
| County | Minimum Age | Waiting Period |
|---|---|---|
| Harris | 18 | 72 hours |
| Dallas | 18 | 72 hours |
| Bexar | 18 | 72 hours |
| Tarrant | 18 | 72 hours |
Finding Officiant
Once marriage license, need find officiant perform ceremony. In Texas, the following individuals are authorized to officiate weddings:
- Ordained ministers
- Justices peace
- Judges
- Military chaplains
Before the ceremony, the officiant must provide the couple with a marriage certificate, which must be signed by the parties getting married, the officiant, and two witnesses. After the ceremony, the signed certificate must be returned to the county clerk`s office within 30 days.
Registering Marriage
After the wedding, it`s important to ensure that your marriage is legally recognized. Texas, officiant responsible filing marriage certificate, good idea verify paperwork submitted. Once your marriage is registered, you can request a certified copy of your marriage license from the county clerk`s office for legal purposes.
Getting legally married in Texas is a special and memorable occasion. By familiarizing yourself with the marriage license requirements, finding an officiant, and registering your marriage, you can ensure that your union is legally recognized. Whether you`re planning an intimate ceremony or a lavish celebration, the love and commitment you share with your partner is what truly matters.
Legally Binding Marriage Contract in Texas
This Legally Binding Marriage Contract in Texas entered parties listed below accordance laws regulations governing marriage state Texas.
| Party 1 | Party 2 |
|---|---|
| [Party 1 Name] | [Party 2 Name] |
| [Party 1 Address] | [Party 2 Address] |
| [Party 1 Date Birth] | [Party 2 Date Birth] |
WHEREAS, the parties intend to be legally married in the state of Texas; and
WHEREAS, the parties desire to enter into a legally binding marriage contract in accordance with the laws and regulations of the state of Texas;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:
1. The parties hereby solemnly declare that they are legally eligible to marry in the state of Texas and are entering into this marriage contract willingly and without any duress or undue influence.
2. The parties shall comply with all legal and procedural requirements for obtaining a marriage license in the state of Texas, including but not limited to providing valid identification, completing any necessary paperwork, and paying any applicable fees.
3. The parties shall solemnize their marriage in accordance with the laws and customs of the state of Texas, including obtaining the services of a legally authorized officiant and obtaining the necessary witnesses as required by law.
4. The parties agree to abide by all laws and regulations governing marriage in the state of Texas, including but not limited to those pertaining to the rights and responsibilities of married individuals, the dissolution of marriage, and the legal recognition of the marriage in other jurisdictions.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, parties executed Legally Binding Marriage Contract in Texas date first above written.
| Party 1 Signature | Party 2 Signature |
|---|---|
| [Party 1 Signature] | [Party 2 Signature] |
Getting Legally Married in Texas: 10 Popular Questions Answered
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. What are the legal requirements for getting married in Texas? | Well, let me tell you, in Texas, both parties must be at least 18 years old to get married without parental consent. However, if you`re between 16 and 18, you can still get married with parental consent. One more thing, you can`t be currently married to someone else and you can`t be related to your partner by blood. That`s gist it! |
| 2. Do we need a marriage license to get married in Texas? | Oh, absolutely! You need to apply for a marriage license at any county clerk`s office in Texas. Remember, there`s a 72-hour waiting period after you get the license, so plan ahead! |
| 3. Can we have a common law marriage in Texas? | You bet! Texas recognizes common law marriages if you and your partner agree to be married, live together as spouses, and present yourselves to others as a married couple. It`s like magic! |
| 4. Are restrictions perform marriage ceremony Texas? | Well, honest, many restrictions. A licensed or ordained minister, priest, rabbi, or other authorized religious official can perform the ceremony. You even judge justice peace do it. The choices are endless! |
| 5. What if we want to change our last names after getting married in Texas? | It`s totally possible to change your last name after getting married! Just include your new name on the marriage license application and use your marriage certificate to change your name with government agencies and businesses. Easy peasy! |
| 6. Can we get married in Texas if we`re from out of state or another country? | Of course! As long as you meet the legal requirements for marriage in Texas, you can tie the knot here, whether you`re from another state or another country. Texas welcomes lovebirds from all over! |
| 7. Is there a waiting period to get married in Texas? | Indeed, there! After get marriage license, wait least 72 hours legally get married. So make sure you plan accordingly! |
| 8. Do we need witnesses at our marriage ceremony in Texas? | Yes, you do! You`ll need at least one witness to sign the marriage license at the ceremony. It`ll be even more special with your loved ones there with you! |
| 9. Can we get married at a courthouse in Texas? | Absolutely! Many couples choose to have a simple and intimate courthouse wedding in Texas. Just make sure you check with the local courthouse for their specific requirements and procedures. |
| 10. What want marriage ceremony Texas move another state? | No worries! Your marriage in Texas will be valid in any other state. However, state rules requirements marriage, planning move, good idea check marriage laws new state. |