Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

Underage marriage in MD

I have a few questions regarding marriage in the state of Maryland at the age of 17.

What is the process for parental consent -- must they be there at the ceremony, or is on-paper consent sufficient?

When a 17 year old is pregnant, must they have parental consent for marriage? If not, what do they need? I believe I read that they need to have a physician's letter -- if so, do they just need to bring that to the place or is there processing time or something needed in between?

I understand that underage marriage is generally frowned upon, and that there is a reason why it requires parental consent, etc. Yes, I am 17 and intend to get married, and no, I don't need to hear fatherly/motherly/friendly advice about why that's a bad decision -- I am completely aware that in most cases, it is.

I just need some legal advice. Thank you in advance!


Asked on 5/14/07, 7:48 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Thomas Brown Law Office of Thomas K. Brown, LLC

Re: Underage marriage in MD

Under Maryland Code, FL � 2-301, an individual 16 or 17 years of age may not marry unless they have either parental consent OR a certificate from a licensed physician stating that the woman is pregnant or has already given birth. That is, a certificate from a physician is enough.

Not sure about whether parental consent requires a parent to be present in person when getting a marriage license or if a written statement will do. You can call the office of the Court Clerk and ask for the exact procedure for obtaining the physician certificate or how a parent might consent. LawGuru isn't allowing me to post a phone number, but the you should be able to find it on the court's web site: www.courts.state.md.us.

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Answered on 5/14/07, 9:44 pm


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