Can a 17 year old get a marriage license without parental consent?

Full question:

I’m 17 years old, living in West Virginia with my dad and step mom. Can a 17 year old get a marriage license without their parents' consent?

  • Category: Marriage
  • Subcategory: License
  • Date:
  • State: West Virginia

Answer:

No, a 17 year old cannot obtain a marriage license without parental consent. In West Virginia, individuals must be eighteen years old to marry without consent. However, if you are at least sixteen, you can get a marriage license with valid written consent from your parents or legal guardian. This is stated in W. Va. Code § 48-2-301.

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

No, common law marriage is not recognized in West Virginia. To be legally married in the state, couples must obtain a marriage license and go through a formal ceremony. This means that simply living together for a certain period does not grant you marital status. If you have questions about your relationship status, it's best to consult a legal professional for guidance.