Best Marriage Lawyers in Decatur

About Marriage Law in Decatur, United States

Marriage law in Decatur, United States, is governed primarily by state law, as Decatur is a city located in Alabama. The process and requirements for getting married are largely uniform across the state. Couples looking to marry must comply with Alabama state regulations, including age restrictions, required documentation, and legal capacity to marry. Decatur follows these guidelines, while local offices, such as the probate court, oversee the administration and filing of marriage licenses. Understanding the essentials of marriage law can help you ensure your marriage is legally recognized and help avoid future complications.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

People may seek the help of a lawyer regarding marriage in a variety of situations. Legal advice can be crucial when facing issues such as prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, questions about marital property and finances, marriage involving non-citizens, or situations where one party is under guardianship. If you or your partner have children from previous relationships, have significant assets, or anticipate potential legal complications, an attorney can clarify your rights and responsibilities. Lawyers are especially valuable if you encounter disputes before, during, or after the marriage, or if you need assistance with changing your name or updating legal documents.

Local Laws Overview

Marriage in Decatur is subject to Alabama's marriage statutes. Below are some key aspects of local law that are particularly relevant:

• Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. Individuals aged 16 or 17 may marry with parental consent.
• Alabama does not require a waiting period or premarital counseling to obtain a marriage license, except for non-residents marrying less than 60 days after a divorce.
• There is no requirement for a blood test.
• Cousin marriage is legal in Alabama.
• When applying, each party must sign a notarized marriage certificate and file it with the probate court. Marriage licenses are not issued, but certificates must be filed within 30 days of signing.
• Proxy marriages are not allowed; both parties must be present and sign in front of a notary.
• Same-sex marriage is legal throughout Alabama, including Decatur, following federal law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal age to get married in Decatur?

The legal age to marry in Decatur, and throughout Alabama, is 18 years old. Those 16 or 17 can marry with written consent from a parent or legal guardian.

Where do I file my marriage certificate in Decatur?

Marriage certificates must be filed with the Morgan County Probate Court, which serves Decatur residents.

How much does it cost to file a marriage certificate?

The filing fee for a marriage certificate in Alabama typically ranges from $70 to $80, but you should check with the Morgan County Probate Court for exact fees.

Is a blood test required to get married in Decatur?

No, Alabama does not require a blood test for marriage.

How long do I have after notarizing the marriage certificate to file it?

You have 30 days from the date both parties sign the certificate to file it with the probate court.

Can same-sex couples marry in Decatur?

Yes, same-sex marriage is legally recognized and permitted in Decatur and throughout Alabama.

Can I get married in Decatur if I am not a United States citizen?

Yes, non-citizens can marry in Decatur, but may need to provide extra documentation, such as a valid passport or visa.

What if I was previously married?

If you have been previously married, you must ensure your prior marriage is legally dissolved before marrying again. If divorced, you may need to provide the date and location of the previous divorce; additional requirements exist if the divorce was finalized within the past 60 days.

Is common law marriage recognized in Decatur?

Alabama no longer recognizes new common law marriages after January 1, 2017, but common law marriages entered into before this date are still recognized.

Do I need a lawyer to get married?

No, a lawyer is not required to marry in Decatur. However, legal guidance is valuable for prenuptial agreements or for advice on marital property, especially in complex situations.

Additional Resources

People seeking marriage-related legal advice in Decatur can contact several helpful organizations, including:

• Morgan County Probate Court
• Alabama State Bar Association for attorney referrals
• Alabama Department of Public Health for vital records
• Decatur City Clerk's Office for questions on name changes and local procedures
• Legal aid organizations such as Legal Services Alabama

Next Steps

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

• Identify your specific needs, such as document preparation, prenuptial agreements, or citizenship issues.
• Contact the Morgan County Probate Court for any questions about the marriage certificate process.
• Seek a consultation with a qualified family law attorney, especially if your situation involves complex assets, children, or prior marriages.
• Ask the Alabama State Bar for a referral to an experienced local attorney.
• Gather all relevant documents and information prior to meeting with an attorney.
• Consider legal aid services if you have limited financial resources.

Being familiar with local marriage laws and knowing when to seek legal advice will help you navigate the marriage process smoothly and confidently.