Courtroom Weddings: The Easiest and Least Stressful Alternative

Marrying in a court may not be the traditional idea of a romantic and grand wedding. However, for those seeking simplicity and legal binding, a courthouse wedding can be the perfect solution. This article explores the process, the benefits, and the overall experience of getting married in a courthouse.

What is a Courthouse Wedding?

A courthouse wedding is a marriage ceremony conducted by a judge or a justice of the peace (JP) in the courthouse. Unlike traditional weddings, a courthouse wedding is a legal union. Even if you have married in a church or synagogue, your marriage is still legal, but it would still require a marriage license from the local courthouse. This makes the courthouse the place to secure the legal binding of your marriage contract.

Do You Need to Be Married at a Courthouse?

After obtaining a marriage license, you don’t necessarily need to be married in the courthouse. Any civil ceremony can serve the purpose, whether it’s a marriage by a city official or a JP. In New Jersey, for instance, they are known as civil weddings. The choice to have a courthouse wedding is often a matter of preference and personal beliefs. If being married by a judge or a JP fits your ideal marriage vision, then this is the place to go.

Personal Experience

One personal account of a courthouse wedding came from a woman who had a similar experience. She and her non-religious husband had a courthouse wedding in New Jersey, where they were married by a JP instead of a religious figure. They had a small gathering of families, making the experience more intimate and less stressful compared to a larger wedding ceremony. The process was straightforward and took only a short time.

Costs and Benefits

The financial aspect of a courthouse wedding is another significant advantage. Compared to traditional wedding ceremonies, a courthouse wedding can be significantly less expensive. For example, in New Jersey, the woman mentioned that the entire process cost an additional $5 per person. On the other hand, she and her husband used the money they saved on their wedding to take a European cruise, making it a memorable 10-day vacation experience. Some states, like Alabama, even allow you to get married in a courthouse for a very nominal fee, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.

Less Stress, More Enjoyment

For those who find the wedding process stressful, a courthouse wedding can be a relief. The couple mentioned in the story had attended seven weddings and did not enjoy the process. They found that a courthouse wedding was more stress-free and enjoyable. They took the money they would have spent on the wedding and used it to take a European cruise, a ten-day vacation to a place they had never been before. Thus, they enjoyed a memorable experience without the stress of an elaborate wedding day.

Concluding Thoughts

A courthouse wedding can be the ideal choice for those who value simplicity, legal binding, and a stress-free experience. It is a different way to start a married life that is not only legally binding but also affordable and less stressful. While traditional weddings are celebrated for their grandeur and romance, a courthouse wedding provides an alternative for a future married life that is all about the legal commitment and simplicity. If you are someone who wants a straightforward and stress-free wedding, a courthouse wedding might be the perfect choice for you.