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WHY DO YOU NEED WITNESSES TO SIGN YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE?
Whether you plan on having an all-out luxurious wedding in sunny Spain or a simple celebration in your yard, there are steps to planning a wedding
One of those steps includes getting a marriage license. Not just that, you also need witnesses (in most cases) to sign your marriage license. Yes, paperwork takes off some of the fun from the wedding but it’s a necessary evil.
We know you have questions and that’s why we’re here to give detailed answers. In this article, we will discuss why you need witnesses to sign your marriage license.
What is a Marriage License?
A marriage license is a legal document that the to-be couple applies for before the wedding and signs on the day of the wedding to legalize it. It is either issued by the state authority or a religious organization to approve of a couple’s desire to marry. After signing it, an officiant returns it to the county or council. Later, the county or council issues the couple a marriage certificate. The officiant can be a religious leader, judge, or mayor.
Who is a Witness?
A witness is anybody you decide should be present throughout the process of signing your marriage license. The individual must be physically present at the venue because their presence counts.
Who Can Be a Witness?
Generally, you need two witnesses to sign the marriage license. Nonetheless, you may only need one witness to sign your marriage license. In most cases, witnesses have to be an adult, that is, over 18 years old. Additionally, they have to be mentally stable and responsible for their actions. Witnesses can be your siblings, parents, maid of honor, your best friend, best man, or whoever else you deem fit for this position. Ask them beforehand to know if they are willing to perform the honors. Your nominee may not agree to be a witness because of how significant it is. Don’t fret. Think of the next best person and nominate them for the honors. From our experience, people are usually overwhelmed with a sense of pride to know you hold them in such high esteem.
Why Do You Need Witnesses to Sign Your Marriage License?
The reason is simple. You need their signatures to show that your marriage is legal. That’s it. Even if you are planning a fancy destination wedding, you need witnesses. Contact the county official to know the specificities regarding witnesses well ahead of time. If you need to travel to make those inquiries, do not hesitate to do so. After all, there’s nothing better than checking all the boxes ahead of your special day.
At Spain4Weddings, we are experts at providing necessary legal information to ensure your fancy wedding is successful. We go the extra mile to keep you from making common wedding-planning mistakes and help you have the time of your life.
