Best Marriage Lawyers in Aurora

About Marriage Law in Aurora, Canada

Marriage law in Aurora, Ontario, Canada, is primarily governed by provincial and federal legislation. The Marriage Act of Ontario outlines the legal requirements for getting married in the province, while the federal Divorce Act addresses the dissolution of marriage. Marriage in Aurora must comply with Canadian law, including minimum age, consent, and capacity requirements. Both civil and religious ceremonies are recognized, and couples must obtain a marriage licence from the municipality before marrying. Understanding the essentials can help ensure that your marriage is legally valid and compliant with all required regulations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many marriages proceed without legal complications, there are several situations where consulting a lawyer becomes important:

• Drafting or reviewing prenuptial or cohabitation agreements
• Addressing complex property or asset division concerns
• Ensuring legal compliance for international marriages
• Addressing issues of age, consent, or capacity to marry
• Assistance with name changes and legal documentation
• Navigating annulments or separation agreements
• Managing immigration issues related to marrying a non-Canadian citizen
• Responding to allegations of fraud or undue influence
• Protecting children’s rights and establishing child custody/upbringing agreements
• Dealing with legal obstacles to remarriage, such as a previous divorce not finalized

A lawyer can clarify your legal position, protect your interests, and ensure all documentation is correct.

Local Laws Overview

Marriage regulations in Aurora follow Ontario law and are subject to some federal provisions. The most notable aspects include:

• Minimum Age: Individuals must be at least 18 years old, or 16–17 with parental consent and special provisions.
• Marriage Licence: Couples must apply for a marriage licence at a municipal office (such as Aurora Town Hall) before marrying. The licence is valid for 90 days.
• Civil or Religious Ceremonies: Both are legally valid if conducted by authorized officiants.
• Prohibited Marriages: Marriages between close relatives (certain blood relations and adoptions) and persons already married (bigamy) are not permitted.
• Registration: After the ceremony, the marriage must be registered with the Province of Ontario for it to be legally recognized.
• Same-Sex Marriage: Legal across Canada, including Aurora, with equal rights as opposite-sex couples.
• Property: Ontario’s Family Law Act addresses marital property rights and division in the event of separation or divorce.
• Divorce: Falls under federal jurisdiction, with requirements related to grounds, residency, and process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal age to marry in Aurora, Canada?

The legal age to marry is 18. Individuals aged 16 or 17 may marry with parental consent and additional requirements.

How do I obtain a marriage licence in Aurora?

You must apply in person at a municipal office, such as Aurora Town Hall, with appropriate identification. The marriage licence is typically issued on the same day and is valid for 90 days.

Can non-residents or non-citizens marry in Aurora?

Yes, non-residents and non-citizens can marry in Aurora as long as they fulfill Ontario’s legal requirements for marriage.

What documents are required to get married?

Valid government-issued ID for both parties is required. If previously married, you must provide official proof of divorce or annulment.

Is same-sex marriage allowed in Aurora?

Yes, same-sex marriage has been legal everywhere in Canada since 2005, including in Aurora.

Are religious ceremonies legally recognized?

Yes, as long as the ceremony is performed by a registered religious officiant and all provincial requirements are met.

What are the grounds for annulment or void marriages?

Common grounds for annulment include a lack of consent, fraud, underage marriage without proper consent, and prohibited relationships.

Can I change my name after marriage?

Yes, after registering your marriage, you may update your surname through ServiceOntario and other relevant institutions.

How does property division work in case of divorce?

Property division in Ontario is governed by the Family Law Act, which outlines rules for dividing net family property acquired during the marriage.

Do I need a lawyer to get married?

A lawyer is not required for the ceremony itself but may be necessary for legal agreements, complex situations, or if you want to protect your assets.

Additional Resources

If you need advice or more detailed information, the following resources are commonly helpful:

• Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General: Provides general information about marriage, divorce, and family law.
• Town of Aurora – Municipal Office: For marriage licence applications and local procedures.
• ServiceOntario: For registration of marriages, name changes, and copies of marriage certificates.
• Legal Aid Ontario: Offers legal assistance for those who qualify, especially in family law matters.
• Law Society Referral Service: Provides referrals to lawyers in your area who focus on family and marriage law.
• Justice Canada: For resources on federal aspects of marriage and divorce, particularly if international or cross-border legal issues are involved.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance regarding marriage in Aurora, Canada, consider the following steps:

1. Assess your needs: Determine if you require help with marriage preparation, legal agreements, property matters, or concerns about legality.
2. Gather relevant information: Collect personal identification, previous marriage documents (if applicable), and records relevant to your situation.
3. Consult local resources: Contact the Aurora municipal office or ServiceOntario for procedural guidance.
4. Seek legal advice: Reach out to a lawyer specializing in family or marriage law, especially for drafting agreements or if you face legal complexities.
5. Consider financial and property implications: Discuss property rights, potential prenups, and future planning with your lawyer.
6. Proceed with confidence: Ensure all steps are legally compliant to secure recognition and protection of your marriage.

Taking these steps helps protect your rights and ensures your marriage proceeds smoothly under Aurora and Ontario law.