Did you know that there are different ways to get married in California? California offers couples the option of entering into either a public or confidential marriage. While both types of marriages are legally recognized unions, there are distinct differences between them that couples should understand before deciding which route to take. In this post, we’ll delve into the nuances of public and confidential marriages in California, highlighting their key characteristics, benefits, and considerations.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”mainHdng” text_direction=”default”]What is a Public Marriage?
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]A public marriage, also known as a traditional marriage, is what people think of when the topic of marriage comes up. In this arrangement, couples obtain a marriage license from the County Clerk’s office and exchange vows in a ceremony that is typically performed by a licensed officiant, like a clergy member or a judge. The marriage license becomes a matter of public record, which means that anyone can access information about the marriage, including the date, location, and names of the spouses. So, if you’re thinking of getting a public marriage, consider that the details will be made public.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”mainHdng” text_direction=”default”]Main Points:
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]1. Obtaining a Marriage License:
Couples must apply for a marriage license from the County Clerk’s office in the county where they plan to marry. The license is typically valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]
2. Ceremony:
The marriage ceremony must be conducted in the presence of at least one witness and a licensed officiant (like a clergy member or a judge).[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]
3. Public Record:
Information about the marriage, including the marriage license and certificate, is recorded and accessible to the public.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”mainHdng” text_direction=”default”]
Benefits of Public Marriage:
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]A public marriage is recognized not only in California but also across the United States and in other countries. If a couple married in California decide to settle down in another state, the marriage will still be recognized under the law.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”mainHdng” text_direction=”default”]What is a Confidential Marriage?
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]A confidential marriage offers couples greater privacy and discretion compared to a public marriage. In a confidential marriage, couples obtain a confidential marriage license from the County Clerk’s office, and the ceremony is typically performed without the presence of witnesses. The marriage license and certificate are kept confidential and are not part of the public record, providing couples with a higher level of privacy. The biggest difference is that a confidential marriage is kept private from the public.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”mainHdng” text_direction=”default”]Main Points:
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]1. Confidential Marriage License:
Couples must apply for a confidential marriage license, which is only available to California residents. The license is valid for 90 days and can only be obtained from the County Clerk’s office.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]
2. Ceremony:
The marriage ceremony can be performed without the presence of witnesses, although couples can choose to have witnesses if they’d like.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]
3. Confidentiality:
Information about the marriage, including the marriage license and certificate, is kept confidential and is not accessible to the public.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”mainHdng” text_direction=”default”]
Benefits of Confidential Marriage:
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]Confidential marriages, unlike public marriages, offer couples greater privacy, as their personal information is not part of the public record. Along the same lines, confidential marriages can be advantageous for couples who may be concerned about potential harassment or unwanted attention.
[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”column_reverse” column_direction_phone=”column_reverse” text_align=”left” row_position=”default” row_position_tablet=”inherit” row_position_phone=”inherit” overflow=”visible” pointer_events=”all” el_id=”imgSec”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”mainHdng” text_direction=”default”]Considerations for Couples
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]Both public and confidential marriages are legally recognized unions in California, with the same rights and responsibilities. However as noted above, there are clear and distinct differences. With regard to public marriages, they are open to anyone. Confidential marriages are only available to California residents. Couples may want to consider their personal preferences regarding privacy and social recognition when choosing between public and confidential marriages.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” overflow=”visible” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/2″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg_image_animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][image_with_animation image_url=”1303″ image_size=”full” animation_type=”entrance” animation=”Fade In From Bottom” animation_easing=”default” animation_movement_type=”transform_y” hover_animation=”none” alignment=”center” border_radius=”5px” box_shadow=”small_depth” image_loading=”default” max_width=”100%” max_width_mobile=”default”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]To conclude: In California, couples have the option of entering into either a public or confidential marriage, each with its own set of characteristics, benefits, and considerations. Whether couples prioritize privacy or social recognition, understanding the differences between public and confidential marriages can help them make an informed decision that aligns with their needs and preferences.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css_animation=”fadeInUp” css=”” el_class=”p-txt” text_direction=”default”]If you’re interested in learning more or need help with the process, contact MCB Law below!
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