THE LEGALITIES OF GETTING MARRIED IN ONTARIO

Understanding the legalities of getting married is an essential aspect of planning a wedding, as it ensures that your marriage is legally recognized and valid. From obtaining a marriage license to selecting an officiant, there are several legal requirements and considerations that couples need to be aware of before tying the knot. In this guide, we'll explore the legalities of getting married, including marriage licenses and officiant requirements, to help couples navigate the process with confidence and clarity.

Marriage Licenses:

A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes a couple to marry. It serves as proof that the couple has met the legal requirements for marriage and is eligible to enter into a marital union. Here are some key points to know about marriage licenses:

Obtaining a Marriage License:  Each person applying for the marriage license mus provide 2 pieces of acceptable government issued identification (ID) from the list below:

        - Identification  must be valid and original (photocopies, scanned images or pictures on electronic devices will not be accepted.

        - Identification must provide your legal name and date of birth.

         -Your first and last names must match on the two pieces of ID presented.

        - Identification must provide your legal name and date of birth.

        - To have your middle name(s) included on your marriage license it must also appear on both pieces of ID.

        - ID on the list can be from any country, as long as it is government issued.

        - If the ID is not in English, a written translation from a certified translator is required.

        - Health and S.I.N. Cards aree not acceptable.

        - Expried identification is not acceptable.

Expiration Date: Marriage licenses have an expiration date, typically 90 days after issuance. Couples must ensure that they get married within the validity period of the marriage license, or they may need to reapply for a new license.

Witnesses: Couples are required required to have witnesses present during the marriage ceremony who can attest to the validity of the marriage.  They can be friends or family members, or complete strangers.

Legal Age Requirements:  In Ontario, there is no legal age, but witnesses must have the mental capacity and language skills to understand what they are witnessing and signing

Prohibited Marriages: Certain marriages may be prohibited or restricted by law, such as marriages between close relatives or individuals with certain familial relationships. It's important to familiarize yourself with any legal restrictions on marriage in your jurisdiction to avoid potential legal issues.

Officiant Requirements:

An officiant is a person who presides over a marriage ceremony and has the legal authority to solemnize marriages. Here are some key points to know about officiant requirements:

Authorized Officiants: Officiants who are authorized to solemnize marriages vary by jurisdiction and may include clergy members, judges, magistrates, justices of the peace, and other designated individuals. It's essential to ensure that your chosen officiant is legally authorized to perform marriages in your jurisdiction.

Ordination: In some jurisdictions, individuals who are ordained as ministers or religious leaders may have the authority to solemnize marriages. However, the requirements for ordination and the recognition of ordained ministers as officiants may vary from province to province.

Registration or Licensing: Some jurisdictions require officiants to register or obtain a license to perform marriages. This may involve submitting an application, providing proof of ordination or religious credentials, and paying a registration fee.

Officiant Credentials: Couples should verify the credentials and legal authority of their chosen officiant to ensure that their marriage will be legally recognized. This may involve asking for proof of ordination, licensing, or authorization to solemnize marriages.

Ceremony Requirements: Officiants are responsible for conducting the marriage ceremony in accordance with legal requirements and customs. This may include ensuring that the couple exchanges vows, rings, and any other ceremonial elements required by law or tradition.

Completion of Marriage License: After the marriage ceremony, the officiant is typically responsible for completing and signing the marriage license, along with any required witnesses. The completed license is then filed with the Registrar of Ontario to officially record the marriage.