The Cowboy State: Exploring the Legal Age of Marriage in Wyoming”
As couples embark on the journey of matrimony, understanding the legal requirements is crucial. In the scenic landscapes of Wyoming, the legal age of marriage plays a significant role in the union process. In this blog post, we will delve into Wyoming’s marriage laws, explore any relevant case law, and provide a comprehensive guide to the legal age and marriage procedures in the Cowboy State.
Legal Age of Marriage in Wyoming
In Wyoming, the legal age for marriage is 18. However, there are provisions for younger individuals to marry under specific circumstances:
1. Age 16 and 17
– Individuals aged 16 or 17 may marry with parental consent and approval from a district court judge. Both parents or legal guardians must provide consent, and the judge must determine that the marriage is in the best interest of the minor.
2. Under Age 16
– Individuals under the age of 16 may not marry in Wyoming except under rare circumstances, such as pregnancy. In such cases, parental consent and court approval are also required.
Marriage License Procedures:
1. Visit the County Clerk’s Office
– Couples must apply for a marriage license at the County Clerk’s office in any Wyoming county. The license is valid for ceremonies performed anywhere within the state.
2. Provide Identification and Documentation
– Both parties should bring valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. Social Security numbers may also be required. Non-U.S. citizens may need to provide additional documentation.
3. Pay the Marriage License Fee
– There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license in Wyoming, and fees may vary by county. It’s advisable to check with the specific County Clerk’s office for the current fee.
4. Waiting Period and Expiration
– Wyoming has no waiting period for receiving a marriage license. Once issued, the license is valid immediately and remains so for one year. After one year, the license expires, and a new application must be submitted.
5. Ceremony and Officiant
– The marriage ceremony must be performed by an authorized officiant, such as a religious minister, judge, magistrate, or a person authorized by religious organizations. After the ceremony, the officiant and the couple must sign the marriage license.
Relevant Case Law:
While specific case law examples may not be as prominent in the context of Wyoming’s marriage laws, the legal foundation for marriage in the state is influenced by broader constitutional principles and the U.S. Supreme Court decisions such as Loving v. Virginia (1967), which declared anti-miscegenation laws unconstitutional.
Understanding Wyoming’s legal age of marriage and the associated procedures is essential for couples planning to wed in the state. From obtaining a marriage license to selecting an officiant, adherence to the legal requirements ensures a smooth and legally recognized union in the picturesque landscapes of the Cowboy State.
