GETTING MARRIED IN NEW YORK...

Don't get caught off guard! Learn New York's laws on obtaining a marriage certificate and the necessary information that belongs in a valid prenuptial agreement. This website will provide you with the basic information a couple will need to obtain a marriage certificate in the state of New York. In addition, you will find links to some helpful resources on the laws, regulations and policies that govern marriage certificates. Lastly, this website will guide you through the basic criteria needed for a valid prenuptial agreement. Prenuptial agreements can be a difficult subject to discuss with a prospective spouse, but understanding some basic knowledge about what makes a valid agreement will make your decision actually worth it. Learn some of the pitfalls and some of the agreements courts have been unwilling to uphold in the court of law.

This website is for research purposes only. Provided are the links to free websites, libraries and research methods that one will need when making a decision about where to get your marriage license, marriage certificate, and arranging for a prenuptial agreement.

This website is for educational purposes only and not to be supplemented for legal advice.

By Malaika Makembe


 The Basics

Marriage License
  • Find the NY town, city, or county to obtain marriage license
  • Identification Requirement - to establish proof of age & identity
  • Previous marriage dissolution certified documentation
  • Fee - $40-$50 depending on town, city, or county
  • Waiting Period - 24 hour waiting period 
  • License Valid for 60 days
  • Officiant must be authorized, ordained or NY public official 
  • Witness - marriage ceremony needs at least 1 witness 
  • NY Residency NOT required
  • No tests required

Prenuptial Agreements
  • Prenuptial agreements can be difficult to discuss, approach with sensitivity
  • Completed BEFORE the marriage
  • Hire separate matrimonial lawyers 
  • Disclose ALL assets, its a must or will be invalid
  • Follow legal procedures (NY contract law)
  • Must be in writing, signed by both parties
  • Fees for attorneys generally $300-$500 an hour
  • Make it FAIR signs of taking advantage looked poorly by NY law
  • Update your pre-nuptial every 5-10 years
  • Consider a "Sunset Clause" - a time it will expire

 
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