Full question:
My parents are not willing to give me consent for marriage. I am 17 years old and I am a resident of Indiana. How do I overcome this hurdle to get married?
- Category: Minors
- Date:
- State: Indiana
Answer:
In Indiana, individuals under 18 need parental or guardian consent to marry, as stated in Burns Ind. Code Ann. § 31-11-2-1 and § 31-11-2-2. However, the law allows a person to petition the court for permission to marry without consent under Burns Ind. Code Ann. § 31-11-2-3. This section specifies that:
(a) A person under 18 may marry if they:
- (1) file a petition with the judge of the circuit or superior court in their county of residence or the county where the intended spouse resides, or in an adjoining county;
- (2) receive a court order directing the clerk of the circuit court to issue a marriage license without needing parental consent;
- (3) are not otherwise prohibited from marrying as outlined in IC 31-11-1.
(b) The petition can be made in writing or orally. The judge may investigate and hold hearings on the petition. If the judge finds sufficient reasons and determines it is in the best interest of those involved, they may grant the order for a marriage license.
In your situation, you can approach the court to seek permission to marry without your parents' consent.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.