How to Marry at Courts in Virginia
If you are looking for a simple and intimate wedding ceremony without a lot of expense and preparation, marrying at one of Virginia's county courthouses may be the right solution for you. Courthouse ceremonies in the Commonwealth of Virginia are performed by local judges. The first step is to go to the county clerk's office and obtain a marriage license. Each county court can also provide a list of judges who will perform marriage ceremonies.
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Things You'll Need
- Photo identification
- Proof of termination of previous marriages
- Cash or check to pay fees
Instructions
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Apply for a marriage license at any county clerk's office in Virginia. Present your government-issued photo identification along with proof of termination for any previous marriages. Pay your license fee. Once issued, your license will be valid for 60 days.
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Contact any courthouse in Virginia and make arrangements to hold your marriage ceremony in one of their courts. Some counties prefer that couples make appointments, while others prefer to perform marriages on a walk-in basis.
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Hire an officiant. Each courthouse has judges who perform marriage ceremonies. Obtain a list of available judges and find one who will be is available on your chosen wedding date.
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Arrive at your wedding location with your marriage license. You do not need a witness to observe your marriage ceremony, but a limited number of guests are permitted.
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Sign your marriage license and give it to the judge who presided over your ceremony. The judge will sign the license and return it to the county clerk for ratification.
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References
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