Does Getting Married Require A Divorce Decree?

3.5 rating based on 58 ratings

A divorce decree is a final court order that formally ends a marriage, outlining vital terms in both parties’ post-divorce lives. It contains information about your case, including spousal support, child support, custody, visitation, property division, and other details. To prove your legal divorce and eligibility to become married, you must provide certain paperwork to the court. If you are previously married, you must provide the complete final date of divorce or the complete date of death, where applicable according to state laws. Most states allow you to remarry immediately after your divorce is finalized.

A divorce certificate is a vital document proving a divorce occurred. The Supreme Court of the State of New York handles divorce cases, and a Supreme Court judge is the only person who can legally grant a divorce. There is no post-divorce remarriage waiting period in the state of New York. To get a copy of a divorce decree, contact the County Clerk. If the divorce was granted before January 1, 1963, the divorce decree is the only type of document available.

In some states, you will need divorce papers to secure a marriage license. If your divorce was finalized 16 or 20 years ago and the final decree issued, then you are free to remarry. You will need to present your divorce decree or certificate of dissolution from your previous marriage. If you no longer have a copy, your lawyer can help you.

If you want to remarry and apply for a new marriage license, you must show a copy of your divorce decree. The licensing clerk of any state can require proof of your divorce, annulment, or the death of your spouse before they will issue you a license.

Useful Articles on the Topic
ArticleDescriptionSite
Hello, I was wondering if I would need a final divorce …If your divorce was finalized 16 or 20 years ago and final decree issued, then you are free to remarry.avvo.com
do I have to prove divorce for a new marriage license?Yes. You will need divorce papers in order to secure a marriage license. -NYC wedding officiant.reddit.com
Legal Requirements and Documents Needed to Get …You’ll need to present your divorce decree or certificate of dissolution from your previous marriage. If you no longer have a copy, your lawyer …brides.com

📹 What Happens If You Get Married Before Your Divorce is Final Family Law Attorney Explains

In this video, experienced divorce attorney Neelam K. Pfister speaks on the unusual case in which an individual gets married …


Do I Need A Copy Of My Divorce Decree
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Do I Need A Copy Of My Divorce Decree?

To legally change your name, apply for a mortgage, remarry in certain states, or obtain social security, you may need a copy of your final divorce decree. If you lack this document, you can request a copy from the court that finalized your divorce. It's important to differentiate between a divorce decree and a divorce certificate, as each serves different purposes. A certified copy is court-verified and may be required for legal matters, such as marriage applications.

To obtain a certified copy after some time has passed since your divorce, visit the court clerk’s office, where you can request it—though a fee may apply. Presenting the divorce decree is essential for updating your Social Security card, driver’s license, and passport, especially if you're changing your name after the divorce. The decree contains critical information about asset division, custody arrangements, and spousal support. Typically, courts store divorce decrees, and you can request copies in person or by mail.

To obtain a copy, go to your local superior court, where guidance for the process is often available online. Remember, most courts require you to submit specific forms and pay a fee. A certified divorce decree, marked with the court's seal, is the legal proof of your divorce.

What Happens If I Never Get Divorced
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Happens If I Never Get Divorced?

Getting separated without a legal divorce entails significant drawbacks. Remarriage is illegal, potentially resulting in jail time, while your spouse retains rights to your property. They could also sue you for adultery, and can intrude into your life at will. The implications of prolonged separation, such as 14 years, largely hinge on whether the separation was formalized. In jurisdictions acknowledging legal separation, relevant issues—like custody and support—are typically addressed.

On a federal level, living as if single while still married can lead to complications, including bigamy. All 50 states permit no-fault divorces, allowing couples to divorce without blame. Importantly, petitions for divorce do not have expiration dates. Separation lacks the simplicity of divorce, often resulting in financial ties remaining intact and complicating asset division. While it’s possible to proceed with a divorce despite a spouse’s objections, it often requires additional steps.

Separation does not offer the freedom to remarry or remove financial claims, which can lead to conflict. Legal support can facilitate an equitable resolution during divorce proceedings, emphasizing the importance of addressing marital issues through legal avenues to prevent future difficulties.

What Are The Requirements For A Marriage License In New York
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

What Are The Requirements For A Marriage License In New York?

To obtain a marriage license in New York State, individuals must present valid identification, which can include a driver's license, non-driver's ID, learner's permit, IDNYC, military ID, or a valid passport. Both partners must appear in person at a city or town clerk's office to apply, and the marriage license costs approximately $40. After application, the license is valid for 60 days. Couples can start the application process online before visiting the clerk's office to submit their IDs and obtain a confirmation number via the Project Cupid website.

It's essential to provide proof of age, such as a birth certificate or baptismal certificate, with all documents requiring a raised seal. In New York, individuals can marry at 16-17 with parental consent or at 14-15 with a court's permission. There is a required waiting period of 24 hours after obtaining the license before the ceremony can take place, which must occur within 59 days. The marriage must be conducted by an authorized officiant. For those getting married in New York City, applications must be made through the Office of the City Clerk, and hours for in-person applications are from 9 a. m. to 4:30 p. m.

How Much Does It Cost To Get Married At The Courthouse In NY
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Much Does It Cost To Get Married At The Courthouse In NY?

In New York State, the fee for a marriage license is currently $40. The license is issued immediately, but the marriage ceremony cannot commence until 24 hours after issuance. Couples intending to marry must apply in person at any town or city clerk's office between 8:30 AM and 3:15 PM, Monday through Friday. The marriage license cost is $25, payable by credit/debit card or money order. For couples getting married at the NYC courthouse, a marriage ceremony costs an additional $25.

To obtain a marriage license, couples must complete an online marriage application, receive a confirmation number, and then upload identification via the Project Cupid website. The cost of the marriage license in New York City is $35, and additional fees may incur for the certified marriage certificate.

In summary, to legally marry at a courthouse in New York, total costs usually amount to around $120, including the marriage license and ceremony fees. While NYC offers more expensive elopement packages starting at $2, 550, straightforward courthouse weddings remain a budget-friendly alternative for couples. Appointments for the marriage license are released three weeks in advance, requiring applicants to be at least 18 years old.

How Long After A Divorce Can You Remarry The Same Person
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Long After A Divorce Can You Remarry The Same Person?

In California, individuals cannot remarry until their previous marriage is legally dissolved, which requires a minimum waiting period of six months after the divorce is finalized. Once the Decree Absolute confirming the divorce is issued by the court, one is technically free to remarry immediately. Remarriage laws differ by state, with many states permitting remarriage right after divorce finalization; waiting periods may vary otherwise. For instance, Alabama mandates a 60-day wait for remarriage to a third party, while Kansas requires 30 days, and Massachusetts has a 90-day waiting period.

Research shows that the average time for individuals to remarry after divorce is just under four years, though many experts suggest waiting around 2-3 years to potentially strengthen future relationships. It’s also possible for divorced couples to remarry each other, as the legal dissolution frees them to enter into new marriages. Despite some individuals reconciling post-separation, only about 6% remarry their former spouses.

Couples considering remarriage should reflect on their previous relationship and not rush into new commitments; taking time to navigate personal feelings and dynamics is often recommended. In conclusion, while California has a six-month wait time post-divorce, other states have varying regulations regarding remarriage.

Can You Marry Someone Who Is Separated But Not Divorced
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Can You Marry Someone Who Is Separated But Not Divorced?

A person cannot simultaneously be married and single. Even if legally separated from a spouse, an individual is still considered married until a divorce is finalized or the spouse passes away, thus becoming single (divorced or widowed). Dating during a legal separation poses both moral and legal complexities. Morally, individual values and circumstances influence one's stance on dating during separation.

Legally, marrying someone while still married to another person may have consequences, including the potential for criminal charges if sexual activity occurs. Many individuals choose not to date someone who is separated but not yet divorced, adhering to personal rules against such relationships.

When contemplating dating during separation, one must evaluate both emotional and legal implications. Regulations regarding dating during separation vary by jurisdiction, with some places categorizing it as adultery, potentially damaging one's marital status legally. It’s crucial to consider the financial ties and legal responsibilities remaining during an unresolved marriage, such as responsibilities for marital debts. Individuals are advised to make thoughtful decisions based on their unique values, beliefs, and local marital laws.

Ultimately, developing healthy relationships post-divorce or separation can be approached in ways that minimize drama and respect each party's readiness for new commitments. It is illegal to marry while still married, making such actions legally void.

Do I Need Proof Of Divorce To Remarry In Texas
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Do I Need Proof Of Divorce To Remarry In Texas?

To remarry in Texas, you need to obtain a marriage license from a county clerk's office. Both parties must appear in person and provide specific documentation, such as a valid photo ID and proof of divorce. Typically, marriage licenses are valid for up to 90 days. Yes, divorce papers are necessary; if you've represented yourself, you can obtain a copy from the court. When applying for a marriage license, you'll need to provide a government-issued ID and information about your parents. A divorce decree serves as proof of dissolution of the previous marriage. Certified copies of marriage or divorce records must be requested from the county where they were originally filed.

In Texas, you don't need to be a resident to apply for a marriage license, and couples are encouraged to attend a premarital education course of at least eight hours. For divorce, Texas allows both no-fault and fault-based options. After a divorce is finalized, there is generally a 30-day waiting period before remarrying, though exceptions exist for specific circumstances. It's important to obtain a certified copy of the divorce decree from the district clerk's office, as the divorce is only official once signed by a judge.

Following the judge's approval, parties are free to remarry immediately unless bound by the standard waiting period. Always ensure that you have the required documents before proceeding with the application for a marriage license.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Marriage Certificate In NY After
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

How Long Does It Take To Get A Marriage Certificate In NY After?

Couples who do not receive their Certificate of Marriage Registration within four weeks of their wedding should reach out to the issuing town or city clerk. In New York City, those seeking information about fees and requirements should contact the New York City Clerk's Office. To obtain a marriage license in New York State, couples must apply in person at any town or city clerk's office. After the application, contact the Vital Records Call Center at (855) 322-1022 for assistance.

Once a marriage license is obtained, there is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before the marriage ceremony can occur unless a Judicial Waiver is secured. For foreigners marrying in NYC, an extended marriage certificate must be acquired within five days to validate the marriage in their home country. The marriage license is valid for 60 days post-application, costing approximately $40. Couples can schedule an appointment for the license or ceremony online at www. cityclerk. nyc. gov.

Following the marriage ceremony, the officiant must return the license within five business days. The official marriage certificate is normally mailed within 20 days, and partners can expect it to arrive in 6-8 weeks after completion. It’s crucial to adhere to the 24-hour waiting and 60-day usage rules for the marriage license.

Do I Need A Divorce Decree If I'M Divorced
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Do I Need A Divorce Decree If I'M Divorced?

In the event of a divorce, it's essential to provide the specific date when the divorce was finalized and, in some cases, a copy of the divorce decree, which outlines the terms of the divorce. This decree is crucial for obtaining legal or government assistance, as it serves as proof of the divorce. You can contact the clerk's office in the county or city where the divorce occurred to obtain copies of the decree. It is important to differentiate between a divorce decree and a divorce certificate, as each has specific uses.

After a divorce decree is issued, both spouses are legally free to remarry, but they will need the divorce decree for marriage license applications to verify the end of their previous marriage. Courts typically keep divorce decrees on file for 7 to 10 years, and it's advisable for both spouses to maintain a safe copy, possibly at home or with an attorney. The divorce decree is the final judgment of the court and must be presented when necessary, such as when remarrying or applying for legal benefits. Therefore, ensuring you have this document is critical to proving your marital status post-divorce.

Do I Need A Copy Of My Divorce Decree To Get Married In Texas
(Image Source: Pixabay.com)

Do I Need A Copy Of My Divorce Decree To Get Married In Texas?

In Texas, an applicant can apply for a marriage license after the 31st day post-divorce finalization per Family Code 6. 801. If the divorce is finalized within the last 30 days, a certified copy of the divorce decree is required, indicating that the 30-day waiting period was waived. Certified copies of marriage licenses are only available from the county clerk's office, while certified copies of divorce decrees must be obtained from the district clerk's office where the divorce was granted.

It's essential to have these certified copies for legal matters such as enforcing spousal support, custody, visitation, child support, and property division. Divorce decrees in Texas are considered private documents, and only the individuals involved can request copies, which necessitates acceptable identification for retrieval.

For those needing to obtain a divorce decree, contacting the district clerk's office in the relevant county is required. Online search options may be available, but accessing divorce records involves considerable regulations. When remarrying, proof of divorce is necessary; applicants whose divorce was finalized within 30 days must present a certified copy of the decree where the waiting period is waived. If it’s not finalized, the new marriage could be deemed void. Understanding the need for verified documents is crucial in streamlining the remarriage process.


📹 What is a Divorce Decree? US Immigration NJ Immigration Lawyer

What is a Divorce Decree? Do you need to include this in your petition? Watch the video below for answers. Subscribe to our …


Freya Gardon

Hi, I’m Freya Gardon, a Collaborative Family Lawyer with nearly a decade of experience at the Brisbane Family Law Centre. Over the years, I’ve embraced diverse roles—from lawyer and content writer to automation bot builder and legal product developer—all while maintaining a fresh and empathetic approach to family law. Currently in my final year of Psychology at the University of Wollongong, I’m excited to blend these skills to assist clients in innovative ways. I’m passionate about working with a team that thinks differently, and I bring that same creativity and sincerity to my blog about family law.

About me

Add comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Divorce Readiness Calculator

How emotionally prepared are you for a divorce?
Divorce is an emotional journey. Assess your readiness to face the challenges ahead.

Tip of the day!

Pin It on Pinterest

We use cookies in order to give you the best possible experience on our website. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our use of cookies.
Accept
Privacy Policy