How To Get Married Online in Alabama (Step-by-Step Guide)

Getting married in Alabama doesn't always require a traditional wedding ceremony or saying vows in front of an officiant. However, couples need to know that Alabama has specific laws regarding weddings in the state.

If you're considering a virtual wedding in Alabama, it's crucial to understand the available online marriage options. By learning about the step-by-step process, you can ensure that your marriage is legally recognized by the state. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and meet all the requirements for an online marriage in Alabama.

The Legality of Online Marriages in Alabama

In the past, Alabama had strict laws and requirements regarding the marriage process. However, a significant change occurred in 2019 when the Alabama Legislature passed a law that modified the marriage process in the state]. So as of 2019, individuals who want to marry in Alabama no longer need to apply for a marriage license with the county probate court, and the courts no longer issue marriage licenses. This change aimed to streamline the process and simplify the legal requirements for marriage in Alabama.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the way marriages were conducted. Many couples turned to virtual weddings as a safe and convenient alternative during the pandemic. While Alabama does not specifically address online marriages in its laws, understanding the available options is crucial for couples who prefer a virtual union.

Then in 2019, Utah introduced a fully digital marriage license process that allows anyone, regardless of residency, to get legally married online. Marriages that are legally performed in one state are generally recognized across the entire United States, as long as they do not violate federal or state laws. This means that if a couple gets married online in a state where it is legally recognized, their marriage will typically be recognized as valid in other states as well.

In-Person Weddings and Required Documents in Alabama

Alabama implemented changes to its marriage process in 2019, and no longer requires a traditional marriage license. Additionally, having a wedding ceremony is now optional. Instead, couples can complete an Alabama Marriage Certificate, which includes an affidavit with certain declarations. These declarations affirm that:

1. The individual is at least 16 years old and has parental or guardian consent if they are under 18 years old.
2. The individual has the legal capacity to enter into marriage.
3. The individual is not closely related to the other applicant by blood or adoption, violating Alabama's incest laws.
4. The individual is entering into the marriage willingly, without being under duress or undue influence.

Once the couple has completed the Alabama Marriage Certificate, it must be returned to the probate court within 30 days for recording. If the spouses sign the certificate on different days, the countdown for the 30 days begins with the latter of the two dates.

It's worth noting that this information applies specifically to the process of obtaining an Alabama Marriage Certificate for an in-person wedding. If you have further questions or need specific guidance, it may be beneficial to consult with the appropriate county probate court or legal professionals in Alabama.

Acquiring a Marriage License from Alabama without In-Person Visit

You can obtain a marriage license in Alabama without the need for an in-person visit to a courthouse or government building. The process is designed to be convenient and accessible. Instead of visiting in person, you can download the marriage license form and have it notarized. After notarization, you will need to submit the form to a probate court within the state.

It's important to note that courthouse weddings are not mandatory in Alabama, and the focus is on obtaining the marriage certificate itself. To ensure a smooth process, it is recommended to set a reminder for yourself to download the forms online approximately 30 days before your wedding date. Once you have filed the form with the appropriate government authority, you can request a copy of the marriage certificate by contacting the Alabama Vital Records Department.

For the wedding ceremony itself, you, your officiant, and your witnesses must be physically present within the state of Alabama. However, other guests can still participate online, allowing them to join the celebration virtually.

If you prefer to simplify the procedure and avoid bureaucratic processes, platforms like Courtly offer an optimized solution. They provide a convenient way to carry out the entire process remotely from anywhere. By using Courtly, couples can obtain a valid US marriage certificate quickly, easily, and with minimal documentation.

Please keep in mind that specific details and requirements may vary, so it is advisable to consult official sources or seek legal advice for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding marriage licenses in Alabama.

Opting for Courtly: Streamlined Online Marriage Procedure

Courtly offers a streamlined and efficient procedure for conducting online marriages, allowing couples to get legally married in a convenient and hassle-free manner. They provide a comprehensive service that covers everything from obtaining a marriage license to performing the online wedding ceremony, ensuring a fully legal marriage regardless of nationality, sexuality, or physical location.

Choosing Courtly offers several benefits, including convenience and affordability, as couples can plan their wedding without the need for a wedding planner or officiant. The process also requires minimal documentation, making it simpler for couples to navigate.

One significant advantage of using Courtly is the quick acquisition of a legitimate U.S. marriage certificate. Couples can obtain a valid marriage certificate promptly and easily through their platform, without the need to physically visit a courthouse or attend a courtroom. This certificate holds legal recognition across all 50 U.S. states.

Legal Recognition of Online Marriages Outside the United States

When it comes to the legal recognition of online marriages outside of the United States, It is important to note that the acceptance and validity of such marriages can vary from country to country. However, foreign countries or immigration authorities may have their regulations and requirements regarding the recognition of these marriages, particularly if one of the spouses is a foreign national.

To ensure that your marriage is certified and recognized in a country other than the United States, you may need to obtain an Apostille certification. An Apostille is a special certificate issued by the Secretary of State or the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, which verifies the authenticity and legality of your marriage license. It is accepted by countries that are part of The Hague Apostille Convention of 1961, simplifying the process of international recognition.

It is crucial to understand that each country has its own rules and procedures regarding the recognition of foreign marriages. If you are planning to have an online marriage and require legal recognition in another country, it is advisable to consult with the relevant authorities or seek legal advice to understand the specific requirements and processes involved.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Married Online in Alabama with Courtly

Getting married online in Alabama through Courtly involves a straightforward and convenient process. Here are the steps:

1. Create an account

Sign up with Courtly by clicking on the "Get Married" icon and following the on-screen instructions. Once your account is created, you can access it easily.

‍2. Choose the ceremony details

Decide on the format, setting, and officiant for your online wedding. Courtly will match you with a legally qualified US officiant based on your preferences and the chosen time and day.

3. Make the payment

Proceed with paying for your selected wedding package. Once the payment is complete, you will receive an email confirmation from Courtly. For complete information on our available wedding packages and add-ons, please check our Pricing Page.

4. Celebrate your marriage online

Invite your family and friends to join you virtually as you tie the knot. The ceremony can be completed in approximately 15 minutes, providing a convenient and efficient way to get married.

After your online wedding, you will receive a digital copy of your U.S. marriage certificate immediately. A printed copy will be sent to you within a few business days, but you can also download your digital marriage license soon after the wedding.

Conclusion

Getting married online in Alabama through online platforms like Courtly is a convenient and streamlined process. 

Courtly offers a convenient and streamlined process for couples to get legally married online in Alabama. By following a few simple steps such as creating an account, uploading necessary documents, choosing the ceremony format, making the payment, and conducting the online wedding ceremony, couples can obtain a fully legal marriage certificate. The process is designed to be efficient and hassle-free, allowing couples to complete it from their location. All that is required is a valid email address, proper identification documents, and a payment method.