Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

International marriage legal in US?

I heard on tv the other night that if a couple was married in another country it is not considered legal in the US (both parties not US citizens at the time). Does this mean if a couple was married in another country one would be allow to marry in the US without a divorce? Or is this country specific to which countries are legal in the us or not?


Asked on 11/07/03, 12:11 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Re: International marriage legal in US?

I don't know what you thought you heard, but it's untrue. If two people were lawfully married in another country and then come to the US, they will be considered legally married in the US. If you think of how many immigrant families are here, you would realize the absurdity of your premise.

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Answered on 11/07/03, 1:28 pm
Carolyn Press Chung & Press. P.C.

Re: International marriage legal in US?

What you heard is not true. The United States recognizes legal marriages in all other countries. There is no magic which happens when a married couple enters the United States which dissolves a lawful marriage. I suspect that you heard wrong, or someone truly ignorant was speaking on the television (which is not unusual).

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Answered on 11/07/03, 6:16 pm


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