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Step 1
Know that in most states, a person must be 18 to marry without parental consent.
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Step 2
Understand that if your underage child wishes to legally marry, he or she must obtain your legal consent. This may be a written consent or something you must do in front of a judge.
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Step 3
Realize that if you or the other parent does not consent, your child cannot legally marry, unless a court should decide otherwise.
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Step 4
Recognize that this may not prevent your child from attempting to marry anyway. People sometimes go to other states with a lower age limit or lie about their age.
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Step 5
Be aware that a marriage that takes place where an underage person pretends to be of age can be annulled.
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Step 6
Find a way to talk to your underage child about marriage and all of its responsibilities and burdens. Discuss some alternatives that are available to the couple instead of marriage.
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Step 7
Locate a therapist or counselor to assist with the situation if necessary.
