Getting Married

Question 1

What are the requirements for common-law marriage?

Answer 1

• Agree they are married
• Live together as married
• Hold themselves out in public as married.
• Present intent (no future)

Note: only a few states recognize common-law marriages.

Question 2

What the requirements for ceremonial marriage?

Answer 2

License

• Age requirement - 18+ or younger with parents consent or judicial decree.
• Waiting period
• Expiration date
• Medical testing - can be required but not conditioned on results.
• Not issued: (1) sham; (2) already married; (3) too closely related; (4) can’t understand.

Solemnization

• 2+ witnesses
• Judge religious, public official solemnize.

Question 3

What is a heart-balm action?

Answer 3

Civil suit for money damages when party is kilted at wedding.

Note: abolished by most states.