Understanding the legal age to get married in this state is essential for couples planning to wed, especially if one or both individuals are under the age of 18. The state has clear family laws designed to protect minors and ensure that both parties enter marriage willingly and with full legal capacity.
At the Atlanta Divorce Law Group, our attorneys help couples and families understand how the state’s marriage laws apply to their unique situations. Knowing the specific age and consent requirements in Georgia before applying for a marriage license can prevent legal complications and delays.
Under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 19-3-2, the legal age to get married in Georgia is 18 years old. This means that any person who is 18 or older may marry without parental permission, as the law considers these individuals to have full legal capacity to consent to marriage.
However, the statute allows for certain exceptions. A person who is 17 years old may marry under limited conditions if they meet specific requirements. The state eliminated the ability for anyone younger than the age of 17 to marry, reflecting a legislative effort to prevent child marriages and protect minors from exploitation.
While the legal age to be married is generally 18 years old, Georgia law makes a narrow exception for some minors that are 17 years old. According to O.C.G.A. § 19-3-37, a 17-year-old minor can legally marry if all three conditions are satisfied: the minor has been legally emancipated by a Georgia court, and at least 15 days have passed since the emancipation; the intended spouse is no more than four years older than the minor; and each party who is 17 years of age must present a certificate showing they completed a premarital education course. Even after meeting these conditions, state law still prohibits marriage if coercion or duress is present. The Georgia family court will review the emancipation order and the premarital education certificate to confirm that the minor understands the responsibilities of marriage. Our attorneys frequently assist families navigating the emancipation process or verifying eligibility for marriage under these narrow exceptions.
Understanding the legal age to get married in Georgia can help you protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes. If you or a family member is considering marriage and you are unsure about the legal process, our attorneys can guide you through the state’s requirements.
At the Atlanta Divorce Law Group, we are committed to helping residents make informed and confident family law decisions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable member of our team.
Our experienced Atlanta, Georgia divorce and family lawyers understand that divorce may be a complicated, emotional time for you. Many important decisions need to be made that consider your current situation as well as your future.
An attorney can work to help you emerge from your divorce in a better financial, legal, and personal situation than you may have imagined. Call today to schedule a consultation.
