No, you cannot simply walk into an Ohio courthouse and get married. While civil marriage ceremonies are offered at courthouses in Ohio, they typically operate by appointment only, and walk-ins are generally not accepted. For example, civil marriage ceremonies are performed at the Duty Judge's discretion Monday through Friday, but only by appointment.
Understanding Courthouse Marriage Ceremonies in Ohio
Getting married at a courthouse, often referred to as a civil ceremony, is a common option for many couples. However, the process requires planning and preparation rather than spontaneous visits.
Here's what you need to know:
- Appointment Only: Most Ohio courts that offer civil ceremonies, such as municipal or probate courts, require you to schedule an appointment in advance. They do not accommodate walk-in requests.
- Judge's Discretion: The availability of a judge or magistrate to perform a ceremony is often at their discretion and depends on their court schedule.
- Days and Times: Ceremonies are typically performed on weekdays during business hours, usually Monday through Friday. Weekend or holiday ceremonies are rarely, if ever, available at a courthouse.
- No Same-Day Services: You cannot obtain a marriage license and get married on the same day at the courthouse. There are separate processes and often a waiting period for the license.
Steps to Get Married in Ohio
Whether you plan to have a civil ceremony at a courthouse or a ceremony with an independent officiant, the foundational step is obtaining a marriage license.
1. Obtain a Marriage License
Before any ceremony can take place, you must secure a marriage license from an Ohio probate court.
Ohio Marriage License Requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Where to Apply | In the county where either applicant resides. If neither applicant is an Ohio resident, you must apply in the county where the ceremony will be performed. |
| Eligibility | Both applicants must be at least 18 years old. Applicants under 18 may require parental consent or court approval. |
| Presence Required | Both parties must appear in person at the Probate Court to apply for the license. |
| Identification | Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport, state ID) for both applicants. |
| Social Security | Social Security numbers for both applicants (actual card may not be required, but the number is needed). |
| Divorce/Death | If previously married, you may need to provide the date of your last divorce decree or the date of your former spouse's death. Some counties may require certified copies of divorce decrees or death certificates if the event occurred recently or in a different state. |
| Fees | A non-refundable fee is required at the time of application, typically ranging from $50 to $70, payable by cash, money order, or credit card (check county for accepted payment methods). |
| Waiting Period | Some counties may have a waiting period (e.g., 24 hours) between applying for and receiving the license, though many issue it immediately. Always check with the specific Probate Court. |
| Validity | An Ohio marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If you do not get married within 60 days, the license expires, and you will need to reapply and pay the fee again. |
For specific requirements and to download application forms, it's best to visit the official website of the Probate Court in the Ohio county where you intend to apply.
2. Schedule Your Ceremony
Once you have your marriage license, you can proceed with planning your ceremony.
- Courthouse Ceremony: If you wish to have a judge or magistrate perform your ceremony at the courthouse, contact the specific Probate or Municipal Court that offers this service to inquire about their process, availability, and to schedule an appointment. Remember, you must have your valid marriage license in hand before the ceremony can take place.
- Independent Officiant: Many couples choose to have a wedding ceremony performed by an authorized officiant outside of the courthouse. In Ohio, recognized officiants include:
- Ordained ministers
- Judges (including retired judges)
- Mayors
- Authorized officials of religious societies
Make sure your chosen officiant is legally able to solemnize marriages in Ohio.
Key Takeaways
- No Walk-Ins: Do not expect to walk into an Ohio courthouse and get married on the spot. Appointments are necessary.
- Two-Step Process: Getting married involves two distinct steps: obtaining a marriage license from the Probate Court and then having a ceremony performed by an authorized officiant (which can be a judge at a courthouse, by appointment, or another approved officiant).
- Plan Ahead: Always check the specific requirements and procedures of the Probate Court for the marriage license and the Municipal or Probate Court if you plan a courthouse civil ceremony, as rules can vary slightly by county.
