Cobb County Marriage License

Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step in the wedding planning process, and in Cobb County, Georgia, this process is overseen by the Cobb County Probate Court. This license is a legal document that authorizes the marriage of two individuals, and its requirements can vary depending on the jurisdiction. Here, we’ll delve into the specifics of what you need to know to get a marriage license in Cobb County, discussing the eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, and the overall process.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a marriage license in Cobb County, both parties must meet certain criteria. They must: - Be at least 18 years old. If either party is 17 years old, they can get married with parental consent, but this involves additional steps and documentation. - Not be related by blood or marriage as set forth by the laws of the State of Georgia. - Not have been adjudged mentally incompetent. - Provide required identification and proof of age.

Required Documents

To apply for a marriage license, you’ll need to provide several documents: - Identification: A valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID. - Birth Certificate: You may also need to provide your birth certificate, though this is more commonly required if you’re under 25. - Social Security Number: You’ll need to provide your social security number. - Divorce or Death Certificates: If either party has been previously married, you’ll need to provide a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate, whichever applies.

Application Process

The application process for a Cobb County marriage license involves several steps: 1. Application: Start by filling out the marriage license application form. This can often be done online, but you’ll still need to visit the Probate Court in person to finalize your application. 2. Visit the Probate Court: Both parties must appear together at the Cobb County Probate Court, located at 32 Waddell St, Marietta, GA 30090. Ensure you have all required documents and information. 3. Submission and Review: Submit your application and documents for review. The court staff will verify the information and ensure you’ve met all the requirements. 4. Payment: You’ll need to pay the license fee, which can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the current fee schedule before you go. The fee may be payable by cash, credit card, or check, but confirm the accepted payment methods in advance. 5. Obtaining the License: After your application is approved, you’ll receive your marriage license. Note that there is no waiting period in Georgia before you can get married after the license is issued, and the license is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance.

After the Wedding

After the ceremony, the officiant (the person who performs your wedding) has 30 days to return the completed and signed marriage license to the Cobb County Probate Court for recording. Once recorded, you can obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate, which you may need for various purposes, such as changing your name, updating social security information, or applying for spousal benefits.

Additional Tips

• Officiants: Ensure your officiant is authorized to perform marriages in the State of Georgia.
• Name Changes: If you’re planning to change your name after marriage, research the steps involved in advance. You’ll need a certified copy of your marriage certificate for many of these processes.
• Verify Information: Before visiting the Probate Court, verify the current requirements and any updates to the process on the Cobb County Government or Cobb County Probate Court website.

In conclusion, while the process of obtaining a marriage license in Cobb County involves several steps, understanding the requirements and having all necessary documents ready can make the experience smoother. Remember, the Probate Court staff are there to assist you, so don’t hesitate to ask if you have questions or need further clarification on any part of the process.