A court marriage usually refers to a marriage solemnised before a Marriage Officer under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. It is open to persons of any religion. Marriages solemnised by religious ceremony can also be registered.
We explain the documents and steps involved and assist with the formalities.
What this covers
- Notice of intended marriage
- Solemnisation before the Marriage Officer
- Registration of marriages already solemnised
- Marriage certificates
- Advice on objections
How the process generally works
- Notice
The parties give notice to the Marriage Officer of the district where at least one of them has lived for 30 days before the notice.
- Publication and objections
The notice is published and any person may object within 30 days.
- Solemnisation
If there is no valid objection, the marriage is solemnised in the presence of three witnesses and a certificate is issued.
Relevant law
- Special Marriage Act, 1954
- Gujarat Registration of Marriages Act, 2006
- Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, section 8
Common questions
What are the age requirements?
Under the Special Marriage Act, the bridegroom must have completed 21 years and the bride 18 years.