Prerequisites for Getting Married in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a city of fun, excitement and cliches. Of the many cliches associated with Sin City, few are more famous than the concept of a whirlwind marriage at one of the many wedding chapels. For some, the Vegas wedding is a whimsical elopement option. For others, it is a spur-of-the-moment decision that arrives in the wake of an evening's fun. Regardless of how people arrive at the door of a Vegas wedding chapel, it is important to know the prerequisites involved to ensure the "I do"s are legitimate.
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Gender
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In order to be officially wed in Clark County, Nevada, the party seeking a marriage license must consist of a man and a woman. While there are chapels in Las Vegas that perform commitment ceremonies, same-sex marriages are not legally recognized, as of April 2010.
Age
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A couple looking to be married in Las Vegas must consist of two consenting adults of at least 18 years of age. Proof of age must be provided by both parties, in person, at the Marriage License Bureau of the Clark County Courthouse. Individuals aged 16 or 17 may be legally wed in Clark County, provided that parents or legal guardians provide their consent in person. Legal proof of guardianship is required.
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Relation
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For a man and woman to be married in Las Vegas, they cannot be related closer than second cousins or cousins of half blood.
Blood Tests
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There is no requirement for blood testing before a marriage license is issued in Clark County. There is also no waiting period before the document is issued.
Divorced Individuals
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For a marriage to be legal in Clark County, Nevada, divorces for both parties must be finalized in the state where the dissolution of marriage was granted. Proof of final dissolution must be provided, including the date, city and state from which the decree was issued.
International Marriages
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A man and woman from outside of the United States can be married legally in Las Vegas. Many countries require both an Apostille and a certified marriage certificate. Both of these documents can be obtained from the Nevada Secretary of State. If desired, the office can send both of these official documents to the requesting nation.
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References
- Photo Credit wedding rings image by Igor Nikolayev from Fotolia.com
