Best Marriage Lawyers in Alabama

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Lance D. Youd, Attorney at Law
Salem, United States

Founded in 1993
English
Lance D. Youd, Attorney at Law is a Salem, Oregon based practice focused on helping clients through complex personal injury and family law matters. The firm represents clients throughout the Willamette Valley in cases involving accidents and injuries as well as divorce, custody and other family law...

English
Parris Law Firm, a family oriented practice based in Gadsden, Alabama, is led by Tammy Watkins Parris and Victoria Parris Stigile. The firm has been serving Alabama for over 30 years, handling matters across family law, personal injury, criminal law, and real property.\nThe firm emphasizes a deep...
Farra Law Firm
Louisville, United States

2 people in their team
English
The Farra Law Firm is a Louisville, Kentucky based practice led by Matt Farra and Maya Farra. The firm focuses on criminal defense, personal injury and family law, offering representation to clients in Louisville and surrounding counties. Matt and Maya Farra bring decades of experience to urgent...
Ginsburg & Perez, LLC
Hillsboro, United States

Founded in 1982
3 people in their team
English
Ginsburg & Perez, LLC is a Hillsboro, Oregon based law firm focused on immigration matters and family-based issues. The law office was founded in 1982 by Mr. Ginsburg and a partner, and the firm became Ginsburg & Perez, LLC in 2015, illustrating a long standing commitment to clients in need of...
Martinson & Beason
Huntsville, United States

Founded in 1937
50 people in their team
English
Founded in 1937, the law firm of Martinson and Beason, P.C. has been dedicated for over 85 years to achieving the best possible result for our clients. Our Huntsville Alabama personal injury lawyers provide a professional, team approach to each case. Our attorneys are committed to the highest...

Founded in 2005
5 people in their team
English
The Sullivan Firm, LLC specializes in Georgia family law under the leadership of Bree Sullivan-Howell. The practice areas include divorce, child custody, child support and alimony, parental rights, Prenuptial Agreements, and mediation as a preferred path to resolution. The firm combines strategic...
Chancey-Kanavos
Cleveland, United States

Founded in 1994
3 people in their team
English
Chancey-Kanavos is a regional trial firm serving Athens and Cleveland, Tennessee, with concentrated practices in personal injury, criminal defense, and family law. The firm maintains a Martindale-Hubbell AV rating and emphasizes courtroom experience, having handled complex automobile and trucking...
Roanoke, United States

Founded in 2007
2 people in their team
English
Wiese Law Firm, PLC is a Roanoke, Virginia based practice focused on Family Law and related matters in Southwest Virginia. The firm handles divorce, custody and child support, as well as property division and relocation issues, and provides counsel on ART and LGBT related family law concerns. The...
Harris Velázquez Gibbens, Attorneys
Hillsboro, United States

Founded in 1997
12 people in their team
English
Harris Velásquez Gibbens, Attorneys is a Hillsboro, Oregon based law firm established in 1997 that serves the Portland metropolitan area with a focus on personal injury, family law and criminal defense. The firm is a team of experienced trial attorneys and negotiators who stay current by...
Lindley Law Firm, PLLC
Greensboro, United States

English
Lindley Law Firm, PLLC in Greensboro, North Carolina offers affordable, personal and confidential representation in complex family law, criminal defense and estate planning matters. Led by Kathryn Lindley, the firm has been in practice for over two decades, making it one of the area’s oldest...
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About Marriage Law in Alabama, United States

Marriage in Alabama is a legally recognized union between two people, carrying both personal and legal responsibilities. As of August 29, 2019, Alabama changed from a marriage license system to a marriage certificate process. This means that couples no longer apply for a marriage license. Instead, they complete and submit a notarized marriage certificate to the probate court, which is then recorded by the state. Alabama law recognizes both opposite-sex and same-sex marriages. Understanding the legal requirements and implications of marriage is important for anyone planning to marry or address related legal issues in Alabama.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Many situations can arise around marriage that may require legal advice or assistance. Some common scenarios include:

  • Clarification of the legal requirements for a valid marriage in Alabama
  • Advice for couples who have complex financial or property arrangements
  • Assistance with prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
  • Guidance for individuals with previous marriages or those seeking annulment
  • Support with changes to marital status or disputes over the validity of a marriage
  • Navigating issues involving name changes after marriage
  • Legal concerns relating to immigration and marriages involving non-citizens
  • Dealing with matters involving domestic violence or protective orders
Legal advice can be especially important when your marital situation affects finances, property, children, or personal safety.

Local Laws Overview

Several key laws and requirements are connected to marriage in Alabama:

  • Age Requirements: Individuals must be at least 18 to marry without parental consent. Those aged 16 or 17 require parental or guardian consent. Under 16 is not permitted to marry.
  • No Waiting Period: There is no waiting period to file a marriage certificate, but both parties must sign the certificate in front of a notary.
  • Common Law Marriage: Alabama abolished common law marriage as of January 1, 2017. Only common law marriages established before this date are recognized.
  • Prohibited Marriages: Marriages between certain relatives are prohibited. Additionally, bigamy is illegal in Alabama.
  • Marriage Certificate Process: Couples must complete a marriage certificate form, sign it with a notary, and file it with probate court within 30 days of signing.
  • No Blood Test Required: Alabama does not require couples to submit to a blood test for marriage.
  • Same-Sex Marriage: Same-sex marriage is fully legal and recognized in Alabama.
  • Marriage Annulment and Divorce: Specific legal standards apply for annulment or dissolution of marriage and typically require court action.
Understanding these local laws is essential to ensuring your marriage is legally recognized and to avoid potential legal complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get married in Alabama?

To get married in Alabama, both parties must complete and sign the Alabama Marriage Certificate form in front of a notary. Then, file the certificate with the local probate court within 30 days from the date it was signed.

Is a marriage license required in Alabama?

No, Alabama does not issue marriage licenses. Instead, couples complete and file a marriage certificate with the probate court.

Are there any residency requirements to marry in Alabama?

No, you do not need to be a resident of Alabama to get married in the state.

Can same-sex couples marry in Alabama?

Yes, same-sex marriage is legal and recognized in Alabama.

Is there a waiting period before marriage in Alabama?

There is no mandatory waiting period in Alabama. Once the marriage certificate is signed, it must be filed within 30 days.

What is the minimum age to get married in Alabama?

You must be at least 18 to marry without consent. Those aged 16 or 17 may marry with parental or guardian consent. Marriage is not permitted under age 16.

Are blood tests or medical exams required?

No, Alabama does not require blood tests or medical exams to get married.

Can I change my name through marriage in Alabama?

While marriage permits a name change, additional legal steps such as updating records and identification documents must be completed.

Is common law marriage recognized in Alabama?

Common law marriages formed after January 1, 2017, are not recognized. Common law marriages before this date may still be valid.

Can I annul a marriage in Alabama?

Certain grounds, like fraud or incapacity, may allow annulment of a marriage, but this process can be complex and may require court intervention.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance regarding marriage in Alabama, consider these resources:

  • Alabama Department of Public Health - Vital Records
  • Alabama Administrative Office of Courts
  • Your county's Probate Court
  • State Bar of Alabama - Lawyer Referral Service
  • Local legal aid offices
  • Legal Services Alabama
These organizations can provide information, forms, or connect you with legal professionals knowledgeable in Alabama marriage law.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance related to marriage in Alabama, consider taking these steps:

  • Gather all necessary documents pertaining to your situation, such as identification, completed marriage certificate, and any previous legal records.
  • Research and contact a reputable attorney who specializes in family or marriage law.
  • Prepare questions and concerns in advance to ensure your needs are fully addressed during an initial consultation.
  • Utilize local resources like county probate courts or state legal aid offices for guidance or referrals.
  • Act promptly, especially if there are upcoming deadlines or urgent matters involving your marriage.
Professional legal advice can make the marriage process smoother and help protect your rights throughout your marital journey.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Alabama through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Marriage, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.