Who can legally solemnize marriages in Connecticut?

Full question:

Who are the persons legally authorized to join persons in marriage? Is there any Connecticut law in this regard?

  • Category: Marriage
  • Date:
  • State: Connecticut

Answer:

In Connecticut, several individuals are authorized to solemnize marriages. These include:

  • All judges and retired judges, including federal judges and judges from other states.
  • Family support magistrates, family support referees, state referees, and appointed justices of the peace in Connecticut.
  • All ordained or licensed members of the clergy from any state.

According to Connecticut General Statutes § 46b-22, marriages solemnized according to the forms and usages of any religious denomination in the state, including those witnessed by the Baha'i Spiritual Assembly, are valid. However, marriages performed by anyone not listed above are void.

Additionally, public officials who can issue marriage licenses cannot solemnize marriages under licenses they or their assistants issue. Violating this provision may result in a fine of up to fifty dollars.

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

In Connecticut, weddings can be officiated by judges, retired judges, family support magistrates, justices of the peace, and ordained or licensed clergy from any state. It's important to ensure that the officiant is on the list of authorized individuals to avoid any issues with the legality of the marriage.