Acquiring a marriage license is a crucial step for couples planning to tie the knot in Lawrenceville, GA. The process involves several key steps and requirements that must be fulfilled before receiving the license. In Gwinnett County, where Lawrenceville is located, the Probate Court is responsible for issuing marriage licenses.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a marriage license in Lawrenceville, GA, both parties must meet the following requirements: - Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to apply without parental consent. If either party is 17 years old, they can apply with parental consent. - ID and Residency: Both parties must provide a valid government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport) and proof of residency. While residency in Gwinnett County or the state of Georgia is not necessarily required to obtain a marriage license, there may be specific requirements or restrictions to be aware of. - Previous Marriages: If either party has been previously married, they must provide a divorce decree or death certificate to show that the previous marriage has been dissolved. - Blood Tests: As of 2019, blood tests are no longer required for marriage licenses in Georgia.
Applying for the License
The application process for a marriage license in Lawrenceville, GA, can be undertaken by following these steps: 1. Visit the Gwinnett County Probate Court: Both parties must appear together at the Gwinnett County Probate Court, located at 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville, GA 30046. 2. Fill Out the Application: Couples will need to fill out the marriage license application, which will require providing personal information, including full names, dates of birth, social security numbers, and addresses. 3. Provide Required Documents: Both parties must present the required documents, including valid ID and any necessary documentation regarding previous marriages. 4. Pay the Fee: There is a fee for the marriage license, which must be paid at the time of application. The fee can vary, so it’s best to check with the Probate Court for the most current information. 5. Waiting Period: Georgia does not have a mandatory waiting period between applying for the marriage license and when the license can be issued or used.
After Receiving the License
Once the marriage license is issued, it is valid for 180 days (six months). Couples must have a ceremony performed by an ordained minister or other authorized official within this timeframe. After the ceremony, the officiant and witnesses must sign the marriage certificate, which is then returned to the Probate Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a resident of Gwinnett County or Georgia to get married there?
+No, you do not need to be a resident of Gwinnett County or the state of Georgia to obtain a marriage license. However, you must get married in the state of Georgia for the license to be valid.
Can I apply for a marriage license online in Gwinnett County?
+While some preliminary steps might be available online, both parties must appear in person at the Probate Court to complete the application process.
How long is a marriage license valid in Georgia?
+A marriage license in Georgia is valid for 180 days (six months) from the date it is issued.
Can I get married by a judge or magistrate in Gwinnett County?
+Yes, judges and magistrates in Gwinnett County can perform marriages. It's best to contact the court or the officiant directly for scheduling and specific requirements.
Do I need a witness for the marriage ceremony in Georgia?
+Georgia law does not require witnesses for the marriage ceremony.
Conclusion
Planning a wedding involves numerous details, and obtaining a marriage license is one of the first steps in making the union official. By understanding the requirements and process for obtaining a marriage license in Lawrenceville, GA, couples can ensure a smooth start to their wedding planning journey. Remember to check with the Gwinnett County Probate Court for the most current information, as laws and procedures can change.
