Is There a Marriage Limit in Texas?
Texas has a few rules and limitations for marriages, and if you are thinking about getting married for the first time or would like to start a new marriage after getting a divorce, there are a few key aspects about Texas marriages you may want to know. As always, each marriage is different, and consulting a family law attorney before walking down the aisle is recommended.
Is There a Limit to How Many Times You Can Get Married in Texas?
There is no law putting a limit on how many times you can get married in Texas. The state not only recognizes formal ceremonial marriages but also considers more informal marriages as being valid under certain circumstances. Anyone who was never married before or who is divorced or widowed may get married or remarry as many times as they wish.
Does Texas Recognize Common Law Marriage?
Informal marriages, also referred to as common-law marriages, are considered legal in Texas as long as certain requirements are met. Those include showing proof that both parties agree to be married; that both parties agree to live as a married couple in Texas, and that you identify yourselves to other people as a married couple. By signing and filing a Declaration of Informal Marriage and filing it with the court clerk, you can make an informal marriage official.
What Circumstances Would Make a Marriage Illegal?
In the state of Texas, there are a few situations that would make a marriage illegal. First, you cannot be legally married to more than one person at a time. Multiple marriages are not allowed by law, regardless of whether you wish to be married to more than one spouse in Texas, any other U.S. state, or even a foreign country. You must get a divorce before you can legally marry again.
Second, you may not marry anyone under the age of 18. The exception to this rule is if the underage person you intend to marry shows legal proof of a court-ordered document removing the “disabilities of minority of the party for general purposes”. Without this document from a Texas court (or a court from another state), the marriage would be considered void.
Should I See a Family Law Attorney Before Getting Married?
While most people think of seeing a family law attorney when they are getting a divorce, consulting with an attorney before you get married can also be incredibly beneficial to help you plan for the road ahead. An attorney can help you with important things such as pre-nuptial agreements and estate planning considerations. Every marriage is different and at ALP Law Firm, our legal team is ready to answer your questions. Contact our Bellaire, TX office for a no-commitment case analysis.
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