Full question:
I am 15 years old and I live in Maryland. I like to marry my boyfriend now. Is it possible under Maryland Law?
- Category: Marriage
- Subcategory: Minor
- Date:
- State: Maryland
Answer:
In Maryland, children of age 15 may marry if they have a parent’s “consent” and also, “the woman to be married” is pregnant or has a child. Thus, you may not marry your boyfriend unless you have your parental consent and a certificate from a licensed physician, licensed physician assistant, or nurse practitioner, that you are pregnant, or has given birth to a child. This is provided in Md. FAMILY LAW Code Ann. § 2-301. It reads in pertinent part as follows:“***
(b) Marriage of individual 15 years old. -- An individual 15 years old may not marry unless:
(1) the individual has the consent of a parent or guardian; and
(2) either party to be married gives the clerk a certificate from a licensed physician, licensed physician assistant, or certified nurse practitioner stating that the physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner has examined the woman to be married and has found that she is pregnant or has given birth to a child.
***”
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.
