As a seasoned expert in the field of marriage and family law, I have had the pleasure of assisting countless couples who are planning to tie the knot in San Tan Valley, AZ. One of the most common inquiries I receive is about the policies for obtaining a marriage license in this area. In this comprehensive guide, I will provide all the necessary information on the policies in San Tan Valley, AZ for obtaining a marriage license.
Understanding a Marriage License
Before delving into the specific policies in San Tan Valley, AZ, it is important to first understand what a marriage license is. A marriage license is a legal document that grants permission for a couple to get married.It serves as proof that the couple has met all the legal requirements to enter into a marriage contract. In San Tan Valley, AZ, the Clerk of the Superior Court is responsible for issuing marriage licenses. This office is also responsible for maintaining all marriage records in Pinal County.
Eligibility for a Marriage License
In order to obtain a marriage license in San Tan Valley, AZ, both parties must be at least 18 years old and not currently married. If either party has been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or death of their previous spouse. Additionally, both parties must be present at the time of application and provide valid identification such as a driver's license or passport. If either party is unable to appear in person, they can fill out an absentee affidavit form and have it notarized.Where to Apply for a Marriage License
The Clerk of the Superior Court has two locations where you can apply for a marriage license in San Tan Valley, AZ:- The Pinal County Clerk of the Superior Court in Florence
- The Pinal County Clerk of the Superior Court in Casa Grande
It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing to allow enough time for processing.
Required Documents
When applying for a marriage license in San Tan Valley, AZ, you will need to bring the following documents:- Valid identification for both parties
- Proof of age (birth certificate, driver's license, or passport)
- Proof of divorce or death of previous spouse (if applicable)
- Payment for the marriage license fee (currently $83)
The Waiting Period
In San Tan Valley, AZ, there is a mandatory three-day waiting period between the time you apply for a marriage license and when it is issued. This means that you cannot get married until three days after your application has been submitted. However, this waiting period can be waived if both parties attend a premarital education program approved by the Clerk of the Superior Court. The program must be at least six hours long and cover topics such as communication, conflict resolution, and financial management.Validity of the Marriage License
A marriage license in San Tan Valley, AZ is valid for one year from the date it is issued.This means that you must get married within one year of obtaining your license. If you do not get married within this time frame, you will need to reapply for a new license.
The Cost of a Marriage License
The current cost for a marriage license in San Tan Valley, AZ is $83. This fee must be paid at the time of application and can be paid with cash, credit card, or money order.After the Wedding
After you have exchanged vows and signed your marriage license, it is the responsibility of the officiant to return the license to the Clerk of the Superior Court within 30 days. Once it has been recorded, you can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate for legal purposes.In Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage license in San Tan Valley, AZ may seem like a daunting task, but with this guide, you now have a better understanding of the policies and procedures involved. Remember to bring all necessary documents and arrive early to allow enough time for processing.And most importantly, enjoy your special day as you embark on your journey as a married couple!.
