While many of our posts focus on divorce and other types of family law disputes, we thought we’d change the pace a bit and break down the process of getting married in California. Getting a marriage license is a straightforward affair, but there several requirements and stipulations that you need to be aware of.

Remember that if you have any other questions relating to family law in California, we at Rubin & Levavi are here to help. Reach out to us at your earliest convenience. For now, here’s a summary of the requirements and guidelines for getting married in the state of California.

Marriage License Eligibility

Any adult couple, whether they are same-sex or opposite-sex, is eligible to get married. This means that each party needs to be at least 18 years of age or older, and either party must be entering the marriage freely. Of course, this also includes the stipulation that both individuals be of “sound mind” and have a solid understanding of their obligations. Along those same lines, neither individual can be in an existing marriage while looking to establish a new one,

Marriage licenses are obtained from the county clerk for a small fee, which varies by county. This license is valid for up to 90 days, during which time the marriage ceremony needs to take place. The marriage is not valid until it has been solemnized by an authorized party such as judges and magistrates, religious leaders, and the county clerk’s office. Once the marriage ceremony has taken place, the license then needs to be taken back to the county clerk’s office and the marriage will finally be official.

Consult with a Knowledgeable Family Law Attorney

Marriage is a big deal! If you’re getting married, it is often wise to consult with a family law attorney before moving forward. This can be helpful in helping you sort out prenups, help you understand how being married will affect various aspect of your life, and more.

If you want to learn more, know that you can count on us at Rubin & Levavi, P.C. Call us today to schedule a free initial consultation.