I am getting married next summer, I wanted a friend of the family to marry us, but as far as I know he is not a licensed officiant. He pastors in MD and the ceremony will take place in VA. Does he have to be licensed to sign the marriage certificate? I hope some here can help. I have read articles online but none are very specific in that aspect. I wonder if anyone else has been in that situation or happen to know. Thanks
2006-11-13 12:50:27 · 5 answers · asked by cib0385 4 in Family & Relationships ➔ Weddings
Virginia is VERY strict about who & who cannot solemnize marriages. You need to call your County Clerk to find out the specific requirements. Chances are, though that your family friend will be able to do it.
This is what I found:
Virginia
Virginia Code
Interestingly, Virginia resident non-clergy can sign up for a one-time permit to celebrate a wedding. Apply in person at the Clerk's office of any Circuit Court. Ministers of any religious denomination may perform marriages. Before performing marriages, ministers must provide proof of their ordination and proof that they are in regular communion with their church to the circuit court of any county or city or to the corporation court of any city in this state. The judge will then authorize the minister to perform marriages provided the minister obtains a bond in the amount of $500. Ministers must complete the marriage certificate and return it to the clerk who issued the marriage license within five days after the marriage.
2006-11-13 15:22:07 · answer #1 · answered by weddrev 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
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2016-04-16 10:29:33 · answer #2 · answered by Letha 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am an ordained officiant in Delaware. I was booked to perform a ceremony in Norfolk, VA & found out that they are indeed very strict about who can perform a ceremony. I was ordained online 2yrs ago, I sent in referral letters from the local Clerk of the Peace office (who refers MANY couples to me), as well as copies of 2 different certifications & a 2nd referral letter from an ordained minister & they still would not accept me.
But this was in Norfolk. & the clerk there told me that other towns/counties may be different. You'll just have to call them & ask. But at the very least he would have to be ordained, whether it's online or otherwise.
Hope this helps!
~ Rev. Taya, www.altaredvows.com
2006-11-14 00:33:10 · answer #3 · answered by Taya 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You won't be legally married if he isn't liscensed to marry you...so if he signs, you still aren't married. He could become ordained online, though.
2006-11-13 21:39:45 · answer #4 · answered by chelleedub 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋