Get Married in Lehigh County: Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License
Get your Lehigh County Marriage License hassle-free! Find out how to apply, requirements, and fees. Start your happily ever after now!
Are you planning to tie the knot in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania? If so, one of the first steps you'll need to take is obtaining a marriage license. This legal document is essential for making your union official and can be obtained from the Lehigh County Marriage License Bureau. However, before you rush off to get your license, there are a few things you should know.
Firstly, you and your partner must both be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license in Lehigh County. If either of you is under 18, you will need to obtain parental consent or a court order to proceed with the marriage. Additionally, you will need to provide valid identification, such as a driver's license or passport, to prove your age and identity.
Another important factor to consider is the waiting period for obtaining a marriage license in Lehigh County. After submitting your application, you must wait three days before the license is issued. This waiting period cannot be waived, so it's essential to plan accordingly and apply for your license well in advance of your wedding date.
Once your marriage license has been issued, it is valid for 60 days. This means that you must hold your ceremony within this timeframe, or you will need to apply for a new license. It's also important to note that the license must be returned to the Marriage License Bureau within 10 days of the ceremony, or a penalty fee will be incurred.
While obtaining a marriage license may seem like a tedious process, it's an essential step towards starting your life together as a married couple. By following the guidelines set forth by the Lehigh County Marriage License Bureau, you can ensure that your union is legally recognized and start your journey towards a happy and fulfilling life together.
In conclusion, if you're planning to get married in Lehigh County, obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the process. From age requirements to waiting periods, there are several factors to consider when applying for your license. However, by following the guidelines set forth by the Marriage License Bureau and planning ahead, you can ensure that your special day goes off without a hitch. Congratulations on your upcoming nuptials, and best of luck on your journey towards wedded bliss!
Introduction
Marriage is a sacred bond between two individuals who love each other and want to spend their lives together. However, before getting married, couples need to obtain a marriage license. In Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, the process of obtaining a marriage license is fairly simple and straightforward, but it is important to understand the requirements and procedures involved.
Eligibility Requirements
In order to obtain a marriage license in Lehigh County, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under 18, they must have the consent of a parent or legal guardian. Both parties must also be able to provide valid identification, such as a driver's license or passport.
Application Process
The application process for a marriage license in Lehigh County can be done in person or online. To apply in person, both parties must visit the Lehigh County Marriage License Bureau during business hours. The application can also be completed online, but both parties will still need to appear in person to complete the process and receive the license.
In-Person Application
When applying in person, both parties must bring their valid identification and pay the fee for the license. The fee varies depending on whether the couple is a Pennsylvania resident or not. After completing the application and paying the fee, the couple will receive their license immediately.
Online Application
To apply online, both parties must complete the online application and pay the fee electronically. After completing the application, the couple will receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to complete the process in person. The couple must then visit the Lehigh County Marriage License Bureau during business hours to present their valid identification and receive their license.
Waiting Period
Once the couple has received their marriage license, there is a mandatory waiting period of three days before they can get married. The waiting period is to allow time for any objections to the marriage to be raised.
Expiration and Validity
A marriage license in Lehigh County is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. If the couple does not get married within that timeframe, they will need to apply for a new license. Once the license has been used to get married, it is no longer valid.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in Lehigh County is a simple process, but it is important to follow all the requirements and procedures to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether applying in person or online, both parties must provide valid identification and pay the necessary fee. With a little bit of planning and preparation, couples can obtain their marriage license and start their happily ever after together.
Overview of Lehigh County Marriage License Process
Getting married is an exciting time, but it's important to make sure you have all the necessary paperwork in order. To obtain a marriage license in Lehigh County, there are several steps couples must follow.Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining a Lehigh County Marriage License
To obtain a marriage license in Lehigh County, both parties must be at least 18 years old. If one or both parties are under 18, parental consent is required. In addition, neither party can be currently married or related by blood or adoption.Required Documentation for a Lehigh County Marriage License
Couples will need to provide various documents to obtain their marriage license, including a valid form of identification (such as a driver's license or passport) and a social security card or other proof of social security number. If either party has been divorced, they will need to provide a copy of the divorce decree.Where to Apply for a Lehigh County Marriage License
Marriage licenses in Lehigh County can only be obtained at certain locations, including the Register of Wills Office in Allentown and the Magisterial District Court offices located throughout the county. It's important to check the hours and availability of each location before visiting.Application Process for a Lehigh County Marriage License
To apply for a marriage license in Lehigh County, couples must fill out an application and pay a fee (which varies depending on the location). Once the application is submitted, there may be a waiting period of up to three days before the license is issued.Waiting Periods and Expiration Dates
After obtaining their marriage license, couples must wait three days before the license can be used. The license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued, meaning the wedding ceremony must take place within that time frame.Cost and Fees for a Lehigh County Marriage License
The fee for a marriage license in Lehigh County varies depending on the location where it is obtained. As of 2021, the fee ranges from $50 to $65. There may also be additional fees for certified copies or expedited processing.Changing Your Name After Marriage
Many people choose to change their last name after getting married. In Lehigh County, this process involves obtaining a certified copy of the marriage license and using it to update various forms of identification, such as a driver's license or passport.Obtaining a Certified Copy of Your Lehigh County Marriage License
Couples may need a certified copy of their marriage license for various legal reasons, such as applying for a name change or updating insurance policies. To obtain a certified copy, couples can contact the Register of Wills Office in Allentown or any of the Magisterial District Court offices located throughout the county.FAQs about Lehigh County Marriage Licenses
- Can non-residents get a marriage license in Lehigh County? Yes, as long as both parties meet the eligibility requirements and provide the necessary documentation.- Is blood testing required to obtain a marriage license in Lehigh County? No, blood testing is not required.- Can couples get married on the same day they obtain their marriage license? No, there is a waiting period of three days before the license can be used.- What happens if the marriage license expires before the wedding ceremony takes place? If the license expires, the couple will need to apply for a new one and pay the fee again.- Can same-sex couples obtain a marriage license in Lehigh County? Yes, same-sex marriage is legal in Pennsylvania and any eligible couple can obtain a marriage license.Lehigh County Marriage License: Pros and Cons
Overview of Lehigh County Marriage License
The Lehigh County Marriage License is a legal document that allows couples to get married within the county. It is issued by the Register of Wills and Clerk of Orphans' Court of Lehigh County, Pennsylvania. To obtain a marriage license, both parties must appear in person and provide certain identification documents. The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue and can only be used within the state of Pennsylvania.
Pros of Lehigh County Marriage License
- Legal recognition: Obtaining a marriage license gives couples legal recognition of their union, which can provide certain benefits such as inheritance rights, access to health insurance, and tax benefits.
- Fosters commitment: Marriage is a public declaration of commitment between two people, and obtaining a marriage license can symbolize this commitment.
- Social validation: Marriage is still viewed as a socially acceptable way to express love and commitment, and obtaining a marriage license can provide social validation of a couple's relationship.
- Reduced paperwork: Having a marriage license can simplify certain legal processes that require proof of a couple's relationship, such as applying for joint credit or lease agreements.
Cons of Lehigh County Marriage License
- Financial cost: Obtaining a marriage license comes with a financial cost, which can be a burden for some couples.
- Legal obligations: Marriage also comes with certain legal obligations, such as joint responsibility for debts and potential legal consequences in the event of divorce.
- Religious or cultural objections: Some couples may have religious or cultural objections to obtaining a marriage license, or may prefer to express their commitment in a different way.
- Limitations: A marriage license is only valid within the state of Pennsylvania, and certain restrictions may apply depending on the couple's age, legal status, or other factors.
Conclusion
The decision to obtain a Lehigh County Marriage License is a personal one that should be made after careful consideration of the pros and cons. While it provides legal recognition and social validation of a couple's relationship, it also comes with certain obligations and limitations. Couples should discuss their options and make an informed decision about what is best for them.
Closing Message for Blog Visitors About Lehigh County Marriage License
Thank you for taking the time to read this article on obtaining a marriage license in Lehigh County. We hope that the information provided has been helpful and informative in guiding you through the process of obtaining your marriage license.
It is important to note that while the process may seem daunting, it is a necessary step in legalizing your marriage and ensuring that your union is recognized by the state. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can rest assured that you have met all the requirements necessary to obtain a marriage license in Lehigh County.
We cannot stress enough the importance of preparing ahead of time and ensuring that all necessary documents and information are readily available. This will help to streamline the process and avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.
If you have any questions or concerns about the process, we encourage you to reach out to the Lehigh County Clerk of Courts office for assistance. Their experienced staff is always available to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process.
As always, it is important to remain patient and courteous throughout the process. The staff at the Clerk of Courts office is there to assist you and ensure that your marriage license is processed efficiently and accurately.
Once again, we thank you for reading this article and hope that you have found it helpful in obtaining your marriage license in Lehigh County. We wish you all the best as you embark on this exciting new chapter in your lives together.
Remember, a marriage license is not only a legal document but also a symbol of your commitment to one another. It is a testament to the love and dedication that you share and the promise of a lifetime of happiness and companionship.
May your marriage be filled with love, joy, and happiness, and may your journey together be marked by peace, harmony, and understanding.
Once again, thank you for choosing Lehigh County as the place to begin your journey as a married couple.
People Also Ask About Lehigh County Marriage License
What are the requirements to obtain a marriage license in Lehigh County?
To obtain a marriage license in Lehigh County both parties must appear in person and provide valid identification, such as a driver's license or passport. Both parties must also be at least 18 years old, or have parental consent if under 18. If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or death of their former spouse.
How much does a marriage license cost in Lehigh County?
The cost of a marriage license in Lehigh County is $50. This fee must be paid in cash at the time of application.
Do I need to make an appointment to apply for a marriage license?
No, appointments are not necessary to apply for a marriage license in Lehigh County. Couples can walk-in during regular business hours to complete the application process.
How long does it take to receive a marriage license in Lehigh County?
Once the application is completed and all required documentation is provided, couples will typically receive their marriage license immediately. The process usually takes about 20-30 minutes to complete.
Is there a waiting period before getting married in Lehigh County?
No, there is no waiting period in Lehigh County. Couples can get married as soon as they receive their marriage license.
How long is a marriage license valid in Lehigh County?
A marriage license in Lehigh County is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. Couples must get married within this timeframe or they will need to apply for a new marriage license.
Can I apply for a marriage license if I am not a resident of Lehigh County?
Yes, couples do not need to be residents of Lehigh County to apply for a marriage license. However, they must apply for the license in the county where they plan to get married.
What if I need a certified copy of my marriage license?
Couples can obtain a certified copy of their marriage license by contacting the Lehigh County Register of Wills office. There is a fee for this service and couples should allow several days for processing.
Overall, obtaining a marriage license in Lehigh County is a fairly straightforward process. Couples should make sure to bring all necessary documentation and fees to ensure a smooth application process.