Are you planning to tie the knot with your significant other but don’t want to go through the hassle of a traditional wedding ceremony? Court marriage in India might be the right choice for you. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about court marriage law in India.
What is Court Marriage?
Court marriage is a legal way of getting married that does not involve any traditional wedding ceremony. It is a civil union between two individuals, recognized by the court of law. The ceremony takes place in the presence of a marriage registrar and witnesses. Court marriage is becoming increasingly popular in India due to its simplicity and hassle-free process.
Eligibility for Court Marriage
To be eligible for court marriage in India, both parties need to meet the following criteria:
Age
The minimum age for marriage in India is 18 years for females and 21 years for males. Both parties need to provide their age proof to the marriage registrar.
Mental Capacity
Both parties need to be mentally sound and capable of making decisions for themselves. They should not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the time of marriage.
Relationship Status
Both parties should be unmarried and not related to each other by blood or adoption. In case of a previous marriage, the divorce decree or death certificate of the previous spouse should be presented.
Procedure for Court Marriage
The procedure for court marriage in India is straightforward and can be completed in a few steps:
Step 1: Notice of Intended Marriage
Both parties need to give a notice of their intention to marry to the marriage registrar in the district where either of the parties has resided for at least 30 days before the date of the notice. The notice needs to be in writing and signed by both parties along with two witnesses.
Step 2: Publication of the Notice
The marriage registrar will publish the notice in the office for 30 days to allow any objections to be raised. If no objections are raised, the marriage can take place after 30 days.
Step 3: Declaration of Marriage
On the day of the marriage, both parties need to appear before the marriage registrar with witnesses. The marriage registrar will verify the documents and identities of both parties before solemnizing the marriage.
Step 4: Issuance of Marriage Certificate
After the marriage is solemnized, the marriage registrar will issue a marriage certificate to the couple.
Documents Required for Court Marriage
The following documents are required for court marriage in India:
- Age proof of both parties (birth certificate, school leaving certificate, passport, etc.)
- Address proof of both parties (Aadhar card, voter ID, passport, etc.)
- Photographs of both parties
- Proof of marriage if either party was previously married (divorce decree, death certificate, etc.)
- Witness and their ID proof
Advantages of Court Marriage
There are several advantages of court marriage in India:
Simple and Hassle-free Process
The procedure for court marriage in India is simple and hassle-free compared to traditional marriage ceremonies.
Legal Recognition
Court marriage is recognized by law and provides legal rights and benefits to the couple.
Cost-effective
Court marriage is cost-effective and saves a lot of money compared to traditional marriage ceremonies.
Role of a Court Marriage Lawyer
A court marriage lawyer can provide legal guidance and assistance to couples who are planning to get married in court. They can help with the preparation and submission of legal documents, ensure compliance with legal requirements, and provide representation in case of any legal disputes or issues related to the marriage.
Conclusion
Court marriage is an excellent choice for couples who want to get married legally without the hassle of a traditional wedding ceremony. The procedure for court marriage in India is simple, and the legal recognition it provides is advantageous for the couple. If you are planning to get married and want a simple and hassle-free process, court marriage might be the right choice for you.
FAQs
- Can I get married in court without giving a notice of intention to marry?
- No, giving a notice of intention to marry is mandatory for court marriage in India. The notice needs to be given at least 30 days before the date of the marriage.
- Is court marriage valid in all states of India?
- Yes, court marriage is valid in all states of India. The procedure and requirements for court marriage may vary slightly from state to state.
- Do I need a lawyer for court marriage in India?
- No, you do not need a lawyer for court marriage in India. However, if you have any legal concerns or issues, it is advisable to consult a lawyer.
- Can I choose my own witnesses for court marriage?
- Yes, you can choose your own witnesses for court marriage, but they need to be present at the time of the marriage and provide their ID proof.
- Can I get married in court if I am an NRI (Non-Resident Indian)?
- Yes, NRI couples can get married in court in India, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and have the required documents. However, the procedure may vary depending on the couple’s country of residence.
