What is Court Marriage?

19 Jul 2025 --
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✅ What is Court Marriage in India?

Court Marriage refers to a legal and civil marriage performed before a Marriage Officer as per the Special Marriage Act, 1954 — irrespective of religion, caste, or faith.

It’s a secular and formal procedure where two individuals marry under the law, without religious rituals.

📜 Legal Basis:

Governed by the Special Marriage Act, 1954

Applies to:

Inter-religious or inter-caste couples

Couples of the same religion who prefer a civil ceremony

Indian citizens and some foreign nationals

👥 Who Can Do Court Marriage?

✅ Eligibility:

Both must be legally competent:

Age: 21+ for male, 18+ for female

Mentally sound

Not already married (unless legally divorced)

Not in prohibited degrees of relationship (unless custom permits)

📝 Procedure for Court Marriage

Step-by-Step:

Notice of Intended Marriage

File a notice with the Marriage Officer of the district where at least one party has resided for 30 days prior.

Publication of Notice

Notice is published at the Marriage Office for 30 days to invite objections (if any).

Objection Period

If no objections are raised, the marriage can proceed after 30 days.

If an objection is raised, the Marriage Officer holds an inquiry.

Declaration & Signing

After 30 days, the couple signs a declaration in presence of the Marriage Officer and 3 witnesses.

Marriage Certificate Issued

Marriage is solemnized, and a Court Marriage Certificate is issued.

📑 Documents Required

Age proof (Birth certificate / Passport / Aadhaar)

Address proof

Passport-sized photos (both parties)

Affidavit of marital status

Notice of Intended Marriage form

Death/divorce certificate (if previously married)

Witnesses (3) with ID proofs

📌 Key Features

Feature	Details
Religion	Irrelevant (open to all religions)
Ceremony	Simple and secular
Conducted by	Marriage Officer (govt authority)
Legally valid	Yes, fully recognized
Time required	Around 30–45 days (due to notice period)
Inter-caste/Inter-faith allowed	Yes