Love and Law

A wedding is an elaborate matter built up by the planning and expectation of the couple. No lawyer can advise one on such matter. However, one could mention a thing or two about an early step which is required by all, regardless of faith or creed. No matter who will bear witness to your vows, you will all see the Clerk of the Orphan?s Court of your local, county court or your local District Justice for a marriage license. For this article, I will assume that we are speaking of Bucks County.

There is no residency requirement for a Pennsylvania marriage license. The license is good throughout the entire state and, as such, the wedding itself may be held in any county within Pennsylvania.

You and your intended should go in person to the Bucks County Courthouse or a District Justice of Bucks County with your Social security number and proof identity in the form of a driver?s license, a birth certificate or a passport. If you are over eighteen and sober, you merely have to pay the required fee and wait three days. If you require your marriage license immediately, you should consult legal counsel regarding obtaining a waiver of the waiting period. The license itself is valid for sixty (60) days.

Finally, special circumstances may apply to you which may require the aid of an attorney. For instance, if you are under eighteen years of age, mentally deficient, divorced or a widow(er), you may have to present additional documents or complete additional procedures before a marriage license can be issued to you.

You can find out more information on the Bucks County Website, specifically at http://www.buckscounty.org/government/rowOfficers/RegisterofWills/MarriageLicenses.aspx .

DISCLAIMER: This column is a service providing only general legal advice. The information is not meant to be acted upon without proper legal assistance. As with all such matters of the law, anyone requiring legal help is strongly encouraged to seek the aid of an attorney.