Alyson H. Belcourt South Carolina Marriage License: Understanding the Process

When it comes to getting married in South Carolina, there are several steps to follow, and one of the most important is securing a marriage license. For those researching this process, including individuals like Alyson H. Belcourt or anyone else planning a wedding, understanding the nuances of the marriage license requirements is crucial. This article will break down everything you need to know about obtaining a marriage license in South Carolina, including eligibility, the application process, and specific guidelines to ensure your marriage is legally recognized.

What is a Marriage License in South Carolina?

A marriage license in South Carolina is a legal document that authorizes two individuals to marry within the state. It is issued by the probate court in the county where one of the parties resides, or where the marriage will take place. This license is necessary for the marriage to be legally binding, and without it, a marriage cannot be formally recognized by the state.

The marriage license must be filed with the county probate court before a wedding ceremony takes place. Once issued, it is valid immediately, meaning there is no waiting period in South Carolina before the couple can marry. The license remains valid for a period of 60 days, giving ample time to schedule the ceremony.

Eligibility Requirements for a Marriage License in South Carolina

Before applying for a marriage license, both individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria:

1. Minimum Age: Both individuals must be 18 years of age or older. Individuals under 18 cannot marry in South Carolina unless they have court approval and parental consent. The court can grant exceptions for minors who meet certain conditions, but these cases are rare.
2. Residency: You do not need to be a South Carolina resident to apply for a marriage license in the state. Any couple, regardless of where they live, can marry in South Carolina as long as they meet the basic requirements.
3. Identification and Proof of Age: Both parties must present a valid form of identification. This could include a driver’s license, state-issued ID, or passport. Additionally, proof of age is essential, as individuals must be able to demonstrate they meet the state’s age requirement.
4. No Need for a Divorce Decree or Death Certificate (If Applicable): If either party has previously been married, they do not need to provide a divorce decree or death certificate unless the divorce or spouse’s death occurred within the last 90 days. In such cases, the original or certified copy of the divorce or death certificate may be required.
5. No Blood Test or Residency Requirement: Unlike some states, South Carolina does not require a blood test or a residency requirement for obtaining a marriage license.

The Application Process for a Marriage License in South Carolina

The process of applying for a marriage license is straightforward but involves a few necessary steps:

1. Visit the Probate Court: Both individuals must apply in person at the probate court office in the county where one of them resides or where the marriage will take place. For example, if you’re planning a wedding in Charleston, you would visit the probate court there. Be sure to check the court’s hours of operation before arriving.
2. Complete the Application Form: When you visit the probate court, you will need to fill out an application form that asks for basic information such as names, ages, occupations, and addresses. The application may also ask if either party has been married before and for how long, especially if it was recently.
3. Pay the Fees: There is a fee associated with obtaining a marriage license, which typically ranges from $35 to $50. Fees may vary slightly depending on the county, so it’s essential to verify the cost with the local probate court ahead of time.
4. Wait for Approval: After submitting the application and paying the required fees, the marriage license will typically be issued immediately, allowing you to marry right away. South Carolina has no waiting period, meaning there is no delay between obtaining the license and conducting the ceremony.
5. Get Married: Once you have the marriage license, you are free to marry anywhere in South Carolina. The license must be signed by the officiant conducting the ceremony, and at least two witnesses should be present. After the wedding, the officiant will file the signed marriage certificate with the probate court, and you can request official copies of the marriage certificate afterward.

Important Considerations and Additional Information

1. Marriage Ceremony Officiant: A marriage ceremony can be conducted by a variety of officiants, including religious leaders, judges, or even certain public officials. In some cases, a friend or family member may be able to become an officiant by obtaining special permission from the state.
2. Obtaining Copies of Your Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate from the probate court for a small additional fee. These copies are required for various legal purposes, such as changing your name, filing taxes, or applying for spousal benefits.
3. Same-Sex Marriage: South Carolina, like all states, recognizes same-sex marriages. As long as the couple meets the eligibility requirements, same-sex couples can apply for and obtain a marriage license just like any other couple.
4. Name Changes: After getting married, many individuals choose to change their last names. If this is the case, you’ll need to update your name with various agencies, including the Social Security Administration and the Department of Motor Vehicles. A certified copy of your marriage certificate will be required for these updates.

Final Thoughts 

While this article focuses on the marriage license process for those like Alyson H. Belcourt planning a wedding in South Carolina, the process is standard across most couples regardless of location. By understanding the requirements and following the application steps, couples can ensure their marriage is legally recognized in the state. Whether you’re tying the knot in Charleston, Columbia, or anywhere else in South Carolina, obtaining a marriage license is the first step toward your lifelong commitment. Be sure to check with your local probate court for any specific guidelines or variations unique to your county.