How Does the Court Marriage Process Work in Punjab? | Your Door Step

1. How Does the Court Marriage Process Work in Punjab? Court marriage offers couples in Punjab a straightforward, legally recognized way to solemnize their relationship without the need for elaborate religious ceremonies. Whether it's an inter-caste, inter-religious, or simple marriage, the process is conducted under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, ensuring the rights of both parties are protected. If you're planning to opt for court marriage in Punjab, here’s a clear breakdown of how the process works: Step 1: Ensure Eligibility Before initiating the court marriage process, the couple must ensure they meet the following conditions: ● Age Criteria: The groom must be at least 21 years old, and the bride must be at least 18 years old. ● Marital Status: Both parties must be unmarried, divorced, or legally widowed.

2. ● Mental Capacity: Both should be of sound mind and capable of giving valid consent. ● Prohibited Relationships: The couple should not fall within the degrees of prohibited relationship unless their custom allows it. Step 2: Notice of Intended Marriage The first formal step is submitting a Notice of Intended Marriage to the Marriage Officer (usually located in the District Court) where either the bride or groom has resided for at least 30 days before filing. ● Where to File: At the office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) or Marriage Registrar in your district. ● Documents Required: ○ Duly filled application form. ○ Passport-size photographs. ○ Proof of age (Birth certificate, Passport, Matriculation certificate). ○ Proof of address (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport). ○ Affidavits stating marital status, date of birth, and nationality. ○ Witnesses with their ID proof. Step 3: Public Notice and Objection Period After receiving the notice, the Marriage Officer displays it publicly for 30 days on the notice board of his office. ● Objections: During this period, any person can object to the marriage if they believe it violates the conditions under the Special Marriage Act. ● Handling Objections: If an objection is raised, the Marriage Officer will investigate and give a decision. If no objections are received within 30 days, the marriage can proceed. Step 4: Marriage Ceremony and Registration

3. Once the 30-day notice period expires without objections, the couple can schedule their marriage date. ● Marriage Procedure: ○ Both parties, along with three witnesses, must appear before the Marriage Officer. ○ The couple signs the marriage declaration form in the presence of the Marriage Officer and witnesses. ○ The Marriage Officer solemnizes the marriage. ● Marriage Certificate: ○ After the marriage is solemnized, the Marriage Officer issues a Marriage Certificate, which is legal proof of marriage. ○ The certificate is generally issued on the same day after completing all formalities. Documents Needed on the Marriage Day ● Original documents submitted with the notice. ● Three passport-size photographs of both parties and witnesses. ● Witnesses’ identification documents (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport). Important Points to Remember ● Witness Requirement: You must arrange three witnesses who have valid ID proof. ● Inter-Religion Marriages: Punjab fully allows inter-religious marriages under the Special Marriage Act without any need for conversion. ● Time Frame: Including the 30-day notice period, the court marriage process generally takes about 30–45 days. ● Fees: There is a nominal government fee for the application and certificate, depending on the district. Always check the latest charges at your local office.

4. Final Thoughts Court marriage in Punjab is a smooth and lawful process for couples who wish to marry without religious formalities or societal pressures. By following the simple steps under the Special Marriage Act, you not only make your bond official but also receive a legally recognized certificate that ensures your marital rights. If you wish to speed up the process or avoid common mistakes during documentation, it’s always a good idea to seek the assistance of a legal expert or court marriage consultant.