Court Marriage in Delhi | Legal Air

Marriage is a holy union of two souls, and with changing times, couples are increasingly choosing court marriages as a simple and legally recognized way to tie the knot. In Delhi, the bustling capital of India, Court Marriages have gained popularity due to their efficiency and straightforward process. In this blog, we will walk you through the essentials of Court Marriage in Delhi, ensuring a smooth journey into the realm of matrimony.

Understanding Court Marriage

A court marriage, also known as a civil marriage, is a legal union between two individuals that takes place in front of a Marriage Registrar and is governed by the Special Marriage Act, of 1954. Unlike traditional ceremonies, Court Marriages do not involve religious rituals or ceremonies. They provide a secular and inclusive platform for couples of different religions, castes, or nationalities to solemnize their love.

Eligibility Criteria

Before proceeding with a Court Marriage in Delhi, ensure that you meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Both partners should be of legal age: The bride must be at least 18 years old, and the groom must be at least 21 years old.
2. Valid consent: Both parties must give their informed consent willingly without any force or pressure.
3. Absence of existing marriages: Neither party should have an existing valid marriage at the time of the court marriage.
4. Sound mind: Both individuals should be of sound mind and capable of understanding the results of marriage.
5. No blood relation: The bride and groom should not be within the banned degrees of relationship.

The Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Notice of Intended Marriage (Form 1): The first step in Court Marriage is to file a Notice of Intended Marriage (Form 1) at the office of the Marriage Registrar. Both parties need to submit this form at least 30 days before the desired date of marriage.
2. Verification and Publication: After submitting the notice, it will be publicly displayed on the office notice board for 30 days. This is to allow any objections to be raised against the marriage.
3. Objection Handling: If any objections are raised, the Marriage Registrar will investigate the matter. If found baseless, the marriage can proceed after the specified waiting period.
4. Declaration and Witnesses: On the appointed date, both partners need to appear before the Marriage Registrar along with three witnesses. The witnesses can be friends or family members who are aware of the couple's relationship.
5. Marriage Certificate (Form 16): After verification of the documents and solemnization of the marriage, the Marriage Registrar will issue the Marriage Certificate (Form 16).

Documents Required

Ensure that you have the following documents in order:

1. Passport-sized photographs of both parties.
2. Proof of date of birth (Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, etc.).
3. Residential address proof (Aadhar card, Voter ID, Passport, etc.).
4. Affidavit of unmarried status.
5. Proof of nationality (in case of foreign nationals).
6. Passport and visa (for foreign nationals).
7. Two passport-sized photographs of witnesses.

Conclusion

Court Marriage in Delhi is a legally valid and clear option for couples who wish to celebrate their love without the rules of societal norms and religious formalities. By attaching to the guidelines and requirements, you can embrace matrimony simply and inclusively. Remember, the true essence of marriage lies in the love and commitment between two individuals, regardless of the way they choose to solemnize their union.

For more information regarding Court Marriage in Delhi contact Legal Air.