Best Marriage Lawyers in La Union

About Marriage Law in La Union, Colombia

Marriage in La Union, Colombia is governed by national civil law and local administrative procedures. A marriage is a legal union between two people, recognized by both religious and civil authorities. In Colombia, marriage can be formalized through either a religious ceremony or a civil ceremony held before a notary public or a municipal official. Legal marriage grants spouses a range of rights and responsibilities, such as inheritance, property sharing, and parental rights. For a marriage to be recognized in La Union, it must meet the legal requirements established by Colombian law and follow the specific administrative protocols of the local jurisdiction.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many marriages are straightforward, there are situations where legal guidance can be invaluable. People commonly seek a lawyer’s help with marriage in the following scenarios:

• Ensuring all legal requirements are met prior to marriage, including documentation and identification
• Assistance with drafting and understanding prenuptial agreements
• Addressing cases where one or both partners have children from previous relationships or complicated family situations
• Advising on foreign marriages or marrying a non-Colombian citizen
• Guidance on property rights and asset division entering the marriage
• Support with divorce, annulment, or recognition of marriage
• Help navigating local and national procedures, especially for those unfamiliar with Colombian bureaucracy

Local Laws Overview

Colombian marriage law, as applied in La Union, includes several key considerations:

• Minimum Age: The minimum legal age to marry is 18. Minors aged 14 to 18 may marry with parental consent.
• Documentation: Both parties must supply valid IDs, birth certificates, and if previously married, proof of divorce or the former spouse’s death certificate.
• Civil vs. Religious Ceremony: Both forms are legally valid if all registration and documentation requirements are met. Civil ceremonies are typically conducted at the notary’s office or local municipal office.
• Impediments: Close relatives, minors without consent, or individuals already married are not allowed to marry.
• Marriage with Foreigners: Special documentation, such as legalized and translated materials, may be required if one party is not Colombian.
• Registration: All marriages, including religious weddings, must be registered with the national civil registry to gain legal recognition.
• Matrimonial Property Regime: By default, Colombian marriages operate under a community property regime, but couples may opt for separate assets through a formal agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do we need to get married in La Union, Colombia?

Both parties generally need a valid Colombian ID card or passport, recent copies of their birth certificates, a certificate of marital status if single, and, if either has been married before, a divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse. Foreign documents may need to be apostilled and translated.

Can foreigners get married in La Union, Colombia?

Yes, foreigners can marry Colombians in La Union. They must present valid identification, proof of single status, and all foreign documents must be officially translated into Spanish and legalized.

What is the legal age for marriage?

The legal age for marriage is 18. However, minors aged 14 or older can marry with the express approved consent of both parents or legal guardians.

Where do we register our marriage?

Marriages in La Union are registered at the Notarial Office or local Registry Office (Registraduría), which reports it to the national civil registry.

Is a religious wedding valid without civil registration?

A religious wedding has legal effect only if it is registered with the civil authorities. Without such registration, the marriage is not legally recognized for civil purposes.

Do we need a prenuptial agreement?

Prenuptial agreements are not mandatory. However, if you want to establish a property separation regime or set specific terms, you must formalize this before the marriage through a notary.

What happens to property acquired after marriage?

Colombian law defaults to a community property regime, meaning that unless specified otherwise, assets acquired during the marriage belong to both spouses equally.

How do we handle name changes after marriage?

Unlike in some countries, Colombian law does not automatically change your surname after marriage. You can, however, request to use your spouse’s last name in specific cases, but this is not obligatory.

How is divorce handled in La Union, Colombia?

Divorce can be processed amicably through a notary if both parties agree and there are no underage children, or via the courts if there is no agreement or if there are custody issues. A lawyer’s assistance is highly recommended in either case.

Can same-sex couples marry in La Union, Colombia?

Yes, marriage for same-sex couples is legally recognized throughout Colombia, including La Union. The same requirements apply as for heterosexual couples.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or help, consider these resources:

• Notarías y Registradurías Locales - Local notarial and civil registry offices handle marriage registrations and provide guidance on required documentation.
• Defensoría del Pueblo - The Ombudsman’s Office provides general legal support and rights protection.
• Ministerio de Justicia y del Derecho - Offers information on national laws and legal assistance services.
• Legal Aid Organizations - Nonprofits in Colombia sometimes provide free consultations for low-income residents navigating marriage law.
• Secretaría de Gobierno Municipal de La Union - The local government office can guide you on official procedures and local regulations.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with a marriage matter in La Union, Colombia, consider the following steps:

• Gather all necessary documents, including identification and relevant certificates.
• Visit or contact the local notary or municipal registry office to clarify requirements and procedures specific to your case.
• If your situation is complex or involves cross-border issues, custodial rights, or property arrangements, consult with a qualified local lawyer who specializes in family law.
• Several resources listed above can help you find affordable or free legal assistance depending on your needs.
• Ensure all actions and documents comply with national and local requirements to avoid delays or complications in the legal recognition of your marriage.

Taking these steps can help you ensure that your marriage is smoothly and legally recognized in La Union, safeguarding your rights and those of your spouse.