In Which States Can You Get Married When Under 18?
In the United States, each state is subject to federal law in many areas, but they also have the freedom to set their own laws on a myriad of issues and areas, often of a more minor or civil nature. Marriage laws are one such area and as such just about every single state has different laws, rules, requirements and age restrictions, although in general once a couple is 18 years of older marriage is legal without parental permission except in Nebraska where the age is 19.
Other People Are Reading
-
Parental Consent
-
In most states it is possible to get married under the age of 18 with parental consent. However the circumstances and details of that parental consent vary from state to state. Many states will require parental consent along with some form of court order. Some states such as California only require one parent's consent but will order some form of approved counseling be undertaken before granting permission.
Without Parental Consent
-
In some states it is possible to get married under the age of 18 without parental consent, but usually some form of court order from a probate or district court is required. Massachusetts, for example, allows marriage for a person under 18. Still, the person should obtain a court order from a district court or probate where she resides before she can file the marriage intentions.
-
Pregnancy
-
In some states -- Florida, Maryland, Delaware, Oklahoma, Georgia and Kentucky -- it is possible to be married under the age of 18 when pregnancy or a child is involved. In Kentucky, Florida and Oklahoma, the couple must first obtain the authorization from the court, and in Maryland the couple must be older than 16 years old.
Other Considerations
-
There can be complications arising from the fact that in most states 18 is the age of sexual consent and having sex with someone younger is regarded as statutory rape. Some states may have lower age limits such as 16 but these laws can provide complications and barriers when it comes to under-18s wishing to marry, as they may be reluctant to risk questions and possible charges. Similarly, many religious ministers and marriage officials may not choose to marry under-18s out of moral or personal objections.
-
