About Marriage Law in Perth, Australia
Being a cosmopolitan city in Australia, Perth adheres to Australia's federal Marriage Act 1961. This Act places provision for both civil and religious marriages. In order to marry in Perth, or anywhere in Australia, the couple must be 18 years or older. Non-resident individuals are also allowed to marry in Australia provided they meet a set of legal prerequisites.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
There are several circumstances in which you might need legal help with marriage-related concerns. For instance, prenuptial agreements often require legal representation to ensure all assets are protected. Legal assistance might be needed if there are immigration or visa-related issues connected to the marriage. Lawyers also get involved in cases of marital separation or divorce, and ensuing matters such as settlement of property and child custody.
Local Laws Overview
There are key aspects of local laws in Perth that are relevant to marriage. First, a Notice of Intended Marriage must be submitted at least a month before the planned wedding date. Second, divorces are granted based on the ground of the irretrievable breakdown of the relationship. In the case of disputes following a separation including matters of division of property and parenting, the Family Law Act 1975 applies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal age for marriage in Perth?
The legal age for marriage in Perth, and in Australia as a whole, is 18 years.
What is the process to get married in Perth?
Once you have decided to marry, you need to provide a completed Notice of Intended Marriage form to an authorised marriage celebrant (minister of religion, a state or territory officer, or a registered marriage celebrant) at least one month prior.
Can non-residents marry in Perth?
Yes, non-residents can marry in Perth and elsewhere in Australia, as long as they meet all the required legal criteria.
What are the grounds for divorce in Perth?
The sole ground for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the relationship, proved by the couple living separately for at least 12 months.
How are property and child custody settled in the event of a divorce?
The Family Law Act 1975 handles matters pertaining to child custody and property disputes in the event of a divorce. It promotes the best interest of the child and the fair distribution of property.
Additional Resources
The Family Court of Western Australia offers many resources related to marriage and divorce, including guidelines on how to resolve disputes outside the court. The Attorney-General's Department of Australia provides specifics about the legalities of marriage according to the Marriage Act 1961. Services Australia provides information about counselling and dispute resolution services.
Next Steps
If you need legal assistance in marriage-related issues, the best next step is to consult with a family lawyer who specializes in Australian marriage laws. They can guide you through the process and offer advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Perth 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.
Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Perth, Australia—quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.
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.
