Best Marriage Lawyers in Redlands

About Marriage Law in Redlands, United States

Marriage in Redlands, United States refers to the legally recognized union between two individuals. The process is governed primarily by California state law, as Redlands is located in San Bernardino County, California. Anyone looking to get married in Redlands must meet certain requirements, including age restrictions, consent, and obtaining a marriage license. Marriage carries legal responsibilities and impacts various aspects of life, such as property ownership, taxes, inheritance, and parental rights.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While many marriages proceed smoothly, there are situations where legal help is essential. Here are some common reasons you might seek assistance from a lawyer in Redlands relating to marriage:

• Drafting or reviewing a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement to protect assets
• Dealing with complicated marital property issues, especially in cases of significant assets or business ownership
• Navigating immigration or citizenship concerns related to marriage
• Addressing concerns about domestic violence or abuse
• Filing for dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or annulment
• Understanding your rights about children, custody, or support obligations
• Ensuring compliance with California family laws

Local Laws Overview

In Redlands, marriages are governed by California’s Family Code. To legally marry, both parties must be at least 18 years old or have parental and court approval if younger. Marriage between close blood relatives is not allowed, and both parties must provide valid identification. Common-law marriage is not recognized in California, including Redlands.

To get married in Redlands, you must:

• Obtain a marriage license from the San Bernardino County Recorder-Clerk’s office
• Present both parties in person with government-issued ID
• No residency requirement, but the wedding must take place in California
• No waiting period after receiving the license
• License is valid for 90 days
• Witnesses and an officiant are required for a civil or religious ceremony

California is a community property state, meaning that assets and debts acquired during marriage are generally considered equally owned by both spouses. Understanding this principle is crucial before entering or dissolving a marriage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the legal requirements to get married in Redlands?

Both individuals must be at least 18 years old, provide government-issued identification, and not be closely related by blood. Both must appear in person at the San Bernardino County Recorder-Clerk’s office to obtain a marriage license.

Is there a waiting period for marrying after getting the license?

No, there is no waiting period. You can marry immediately after receiving your marriage license, which is valid for 90 days.

Do I need to be a Redlands resident to get married there?

No, there is no residency requirement. You only need to get the license from any California county and marry within the state.

Are same-sex marriages recognized in Redlands?

Yes, same-sex marriages are fully legal and recognized throughout California, including Redlands.

Are common-law marriages recognized in Redlands?

No, California does not recognize common-law marriages, regardless of how long a couple has been living together.

How do prenuptial agreements work in California?

A prenuptial agreement is a written contract entered into prior to marriage, outlining the division of assets and responsibilities. In California, prenuptial agreements must be fair, voluntary, and fully disclosed to both parties to be enforceable.

What is community property, and how does it affect me?

Community property means that most property and debts acquired during the marriage belong equally to both spouses. This affects how assets are divided if the marriage ends.

Can I get married if I am under 18?

Yes, but you will need written parental consent and approval from a California court before being issued a marriage license.

What should I do if I want to end my marriage?

You can file for dissolution (divorce), legal separation, or annulment in California. Consulting a lawyer is recommended, especially if children or significant assets are involved.

What happens if I get married outside of California?

California will generally recognize out-of-state marriages as long as the marriage was legal in the place where it occurred and not prohibited by California law.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance regarding marriage in Redlands, consider reaching out to these organizations:

• San Bernardino County Recorder-Clerk’s Office - Issues marriage licenses and provides ceremony scheduling information
• California Department of Public Health - Offers information on marriage laws and vital records
• Legal Aid Society of San Bernardino - Provides free or low-cost legal support regarding family law matters
• Local family law attorneys - Can assist with prenuptial agreements, divorce, and related issues

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with your marriage in Redlands, start by gathering all relevant documents, including identification, records of assets and debts, and any existing agreements. Consider your specific needs, such as whether you require help drafting a prenuptial agreement, navigating a complex divorce, or addressing child custody issues.

Consult with a qualified family law attorney who is familiar with Redlands and California law to ensure your interests are protected. Many attorneys offer initial consultations, which is a good opportunity to understand your options before making decisions. Remember to check reviews and credentials, and do not hesitate to seek help from legal aid organizations if you have concerns about costs.

Preparing in advance and seeking appropriate advice can help ensure your marriage issues are handled legally and efficiently in Redlands, United States.