Legal Requirements for Marriage

Question 1

Legal requirements for a Formal Marriage

Answer 1

+ Issuance of a marriage license

AND

+ Solemnization of the marriage by a state-authorized official.

Question 2

Legal Requirements for a Common Law Marriage

Answer 2

Outlawed i most states, but generally recognized if performed validly in another state:

+ Capacity to marry,

+ Present intent to be married,

+ Cohabitation

+ Consummation of the marriage, AND

+ Holding out as a married couple