Do I need consent from both parents to marry in Colorado?

Full question:

My parents live separately and I live with my mom. I am 17 years old and I am planning to get married to my girlfriend this year. My mom likes my girlfriend so she is okay with me marrying my girlfriend. Per Colorado law, do I need to take consent from both my parents before marrying?

  • Category: Marriage
  • Date:
  • State: Colorado

Answer:

In Colorado, if you are under eighteen but over sixteen, you need consent from both parents to marry. Since your parents live separately, you must obtain consent from the parent who has legal custody or decision-making responsibility, or with whom you live. In your case, that would be your mother, as you live with her. This is based on C.R.S. 14-2-106, which states that satisfactory proof of consent is required from both parents or the custodial parent if they are not living together.

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.

FAQs

Start by having an open and honest conversation with your parents about your feelings for your girlfriend. Share what you appreciate about her and how she makes you happy. Listen to their concerns and address them respectfully. You might also involve your girlfriend in a casual meeting to help them get to know her better. Building a positive relationship can help ease their acceptance over time.