Marriage Requirements in Pennsylvania

To enter into a valid marriage in Pennsylvania, two primary elements are required:

  1. A Marriage License
  2. A Ceremony or Solemnization

Key Details

  1. Marriage License
  • A valid marriage license must be obtained to proceed.
  1. Ceremony Requirements
  • The marriage ceremony must be officiated by:
    • A judge, state official, or clergy member of a recognized religious organization.
    • Alternatively, the couple themselves can officiate, provided they file the proper documentation with the state.
  1. Restrictions on Marriage
  • The following conditions must be met for the marriage to be valid:
    • No Close Relation: The couple cannot be closely related by blood or marriage (e.g., parent, child, sibling, grandparent, uncle, aunt, or first cousin).
    • No Existing Marriage: Neither party can be married to someone else at the time.
    • Opposite Sex Requirement: Pennsylvania does not recognize same-sex marriages (subject to the state’s statutory Defense of Marriage Act).
    • Sobriety at Licensing: Both individuals must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol when applying for the license.
  1. Age Requirements
  • Individuals aged 18 or older can consent to marriage.
  • Those aged 16–18 require parental or court approval.
  • For individuals under 16, court approval is mandatory, with the court assessing the child’s best interests.

Common-Law Marriage in Pennsylvania

  • No Longer Recognized After 2005: Common-law marriages are not valid if entered into after January 1, 2005.
  • Exceptions for Pre-2005 Marriages: Common-law marriages established before January 1, 2005, are still valid if they meet the following criteria:
  1. The couple agreed to live together as husband and wife without a formal license or ceremony.
  2. They lived together.
  3. They publicly represented themselves as married.
  4. Both parties had the mental capacity to enter into the agreement.
  • Important Note: Promises to marry in the future do not satisfy the requirements. The couple must have declared their marital intent in the present tense.

Seeking Legal Assistance

For guidance on marriage requirements, or if you need help with legal matters related to marriage or divorce, consult Divorce Lawyer R. Badet.

  • Expertise: Handles various family law matters, including spousal and child support, custody, and divorce proceedings.
  • Contact Information:
  • Phone: ‪(267) 277-2641‬
  • Website: www.lawyersfordivorces.net
  • Services: Affordable rates starting at $599 for uncontested divorces, with cases resolved in as little as 60 days.

Contact today for a free consultation to better understand your legal rights and options!