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Marriage Laws U.S. Michigan License Muskegon County

Marriage license Laws in the state of Michigan, here's what you need to know and what documents to bring with you before you apply for a Muskegon County marriage license. We recommend getting this legal aspect of your wedding out of the way about a month before your ceremony date.

It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license office or county clerk before making any wedding or travel plans.

Muskegon County Marriage License Office

Muskegon County Clerk
141 E. Apple Ave.
2nd Floor
Muskegon, MI 49442
(231) 724-6300
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. / M - F
Closed for holidays Observed by Muskegon County

Getting Married in Muskegon County?

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Residency Requirement in Muskegon County:

You do not have to be a resident of Muskegon County, but the fee is $10 more for non-residents.

Residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county in which one of them lives. Non-residents need to apply for their marriage license in the county where they plan on getting married.

Previous Marriage:

You need to know the date (mm/dd/yy) and how the last marriage ended. If previously married, we must see a certified copy of the judgement of divorce or the death certificate, depending on how the marriage ended.

ID Requirement in Muskegon County:

A certified copy of each applicant's birth certificate. If birth certificates are not available, a valid drivers license or state ID can be used with the following information:

• city & state of birth of the applicant
• father's full name (first, middle and last)
• mother's full maiden name
• the birthplace of each parent (City & State)

The bride's and the groom's social security numbers are now also required. Foreign birth certificates need to be translated into English, and be notarized.

Covenant Marriage Option:

No.

Waiting Period:

There is a three (3) day waiting period in Muskegon County. The waiting period does not include the application day. The waiting period may be waived by the Muskegon County Clerk for "good and sufficient cause shown." The license is valid anywhere in the state for thirty-three (33) days from the date of application.

Fees in Muskegon County:

$20 if you are a resident of Michigan. $30 for non-residents. Some counties may charge more. Bring cash. Most counties do not accept checks.

Requirements and fees may vary as each county in Michigan could have their own requirements. It is important that you verify all information with Muskegon County Clerks marriage license office before making any wedding or travel plans.

Other Tests:

None.

Proxy Marriages:

No. However, only one of you need to be present and have all required documentation when applying for a marriage license. You will need to show a photocopy of the front and back of your partner's driver's license.

Cousin Marriages:

No.

Common Law Marriages:

No, unless entered into the relationship prior to January 1, 1957.

Same Sex Marriages:

No.

Under 18:

Men and women 18 years of age and older may contract marriage in the State of Michigan without parent's consent. Men and women who are 16 or 17 must have the written consent of one parent or legal guardian who must also appear at the time of application. One party must be a resident of Muskegon County (applying party must be Muskegon County resident) or both must be from out of state.

Secret Marriages:

Back in 1897, secret marriages were approved. If a couple requests a secret marriage, if permitted by a judge, after the ceremony is solemnized, the officiant returns the certificate, but the judge may seal the file and allow no publicity about the marriage.
What Qualifies One for a Secret Marriage?

Witnesses:

Witnesses have to be at least 18 years of age. Some counties follow this new law more strictly than others.

Officiants:

Marriages may be performed by federal, probate, district, and municipal judges, and district court magistrates, in their court area; mayors, in their city; County clerks; ministers and pastors of the gospel, both resident and non-resident. The Michigan Statutes also have a provision that allows for marriages to "be solemnized in the manner heretofore used and practiced in their respective societies or denominations."

Copy of Certificate of Marriage:

Vital Records
3423 North Martin Luther King Boulevard
P.O. Box 30195
Lansing, MI 48909
Phone: (517) 335-8656

Please Note: State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

To notify us of corrections or additions send an email to update@usmarriagelaws.com.  Please include the state and county information.

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