Essential Information
- In Missouri, there is a three-day waiting period between the date the marriage license is issued and the date the marriage ceremony can take place.
- On the day of your wedding, present your marriage license to the officiant, who will conduct the marriage ceremony according to your preferences and beliefs.
- Once the ceremony is complete, the officiant will sign the marriage license and return it to you.
Congratulations on taking the exciting step towards marriage in Jackson County, Missouri! Obtaining a marriage license is the first official step in your journey to wedded bliss. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
1. Eligibility Requirements: Laying the Foundation for a Strong Union
Before embarking on the marriage license journey, it’s crucial to ensure you and your partner meet the eligibility criteria set forth by Jackson County, Missouri. Here are the key requirements:
- Both parties must be at least 18 years of age. If either party is under 18, parental consent or a court order is required.
- Both parties must be mentally competent and capable of understanding the significance and responsibilities of marriage.
- There must be no legal impediments to the marriage, such as existing marriages or close family relationships.
- Both parties must provide valid government-issued photo identification.
- If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or death of the former spouse.
2. Gathering the Necessary Documents: Preparing for the Marriage License Application
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, it’s time to gather the necessary documents to support your marriage license application. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Valid government-issued photo identification for both parties (driver’s license, passport, military ID, etc.).
- Proof of age for both parties (birth certificate, driver’s license, passport, etc.).
- If either party is under 18, parental consent or a court order is required.
- If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or death of the former spouse (divorce decree, death certificate, etc.).
- If either party has changed their name since their birth certificate was issued, they must provide proof of the name change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.).
3. Application Process: Navigating the Marriage License Maze
With all the required documents in hand, you’re ready to embark on the marriage license application process. Here’s how it works in Jackson County, Missouri:
- Visit the Jackson County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office in Independence, Missouri.
- Fill out the marriage license application form, which includes personal information, such as names, addresses, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers.
- Provide the required documents as outlined in the previous section.
- Pay the marriage license fee, which is currently $25.00.
- Once the application is processed and approved, you’ll receive your marriage license.
4. Waiting Period: A Brief Pause Before the Big Day
In Missouri, there is a three-day waiting period between the date the marriage license is issued and the date the marriage ceremony can take place. This waiting period is designed to give couples time to reflect on their decision and ensure they’re fully committed to the marriage.
5. Officiant Selection: Choosing the Perfect Person to Solemnize Your Union
The next step is to select an officiant who will solemnize your marriage ceremony. In Missouri, authorized officiants include:
- Judges
- Clergy members
- Justices of the Peace
- Notaries Public
Ensure that your chosen officiant is legally authorized to perform marriages in Jackson County, Missouri, and that they are available on your wedding day.
6. Marriage Ceremony: The Culmination of Your Love Story
On the day of your wedding, present your marriage license to the officiant, who will conduct the marriage ceremony according to your preferences and beliefs. Once the ceremony is complete, the officiant will sign the marriage license and return it to you.
7. Finalizing the Marriage: Completing the Legal Process
After the marriage ceremony, you must file the signed marriage license with the Jackson County Circuit Court Clerk‘s Office within 30 days. This step is crucial for making your marriage legally recognized by the state of Missouri.
What You Need to Know
1. Q: Where can I find the Jackson County Circuit Court Clerk‘s Office?
A: The Jackson County Circuit Court Clerk‘s Office is located at 415 E. 12th Street, Independence, MO 64050.
2. Q: What are the business hours of the Jackson County Circuit Court Clerk‘s Office?
A: The Jackson County Circuit Court Clerk‘s Office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
3. Q: How much does a marriage license cost in Jackson County, Missouri?
A: The marriage license fee in Jackson County, Missouri, is $25.00.
