Can you get married at the courthouse in Georgia?

Answered by James Kissner

You can get married at the courthouse in Georgia. The process typically involves obtaining a marriage license from the Probate Court and then scheduling a wedding ceremony with a Magistrate Judge.

To start, you will need to visit the Probate Court in the county where you plan to get married and apply for a marriage license. Both you and your partner will need to be present and provide certain documents, such as valid identification (e.g., driver’s license, passport), proof of age (e.g., birth certificate), and, if applicable, divorce or death certificates to show the termination of any previous marriages. It is recommended to check the specific requirements of the Probate Court in the county you plan to marry, as they may have additional requirements or documentation needed.

Once you have obtained your marriage license, you can then contact the Magistrate Judges to schedule a wedding ceremony at the courthouse. The Magistrate Judges typically offer marriage ceremonies by appointment from Monday to Thursday, with limited spacing available. It’s important to note that you should contact the Magistrate Judges in advance to check their availability and make a reservation for your desired date and time.

To schedule a wedding ceremony, you can reach out to the Magistrate Judges through the provided contact information, either via email at [email protected] or by calling 404-613-9071. They will be able to inform you about their availability and guide you through the process of securing a ceremony slot.

During the wedding ceremony, the Magistrate Judge will officiate the marriage and solemnize your union. It’s important to arrive on time and bring all the necessary documents, including your marriage license, identification, and any required fees.

It’s worth mentioning that while getting married at the courthouse is a convenient option, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some couples prefer more elaborate wedding ceremonies with family and friends in attendance. However, if you are looking for a simple and efficient way to get married, the courthouse option can be a great choice.

Getting married at the courthouse in Georgia involves obtaining a marriage license from the Probate Court and scheduling a wedding ceremony with a Magistrate Judge. The process varies slightly depending on the county, so it’s important to check the specific requirements. By contacting the Magistrate Judges in advance, you can secure a ceremony slot and make your courthouse wedding a memorable and legally binding event.