Wednesday, May 5, 2021

Major amendments to marriage law now in place

Amendments to the Marriage Act 1949 came in to force yesterday (May 4) which means for the first time since records began in 1837, the marriage register will no longer be the legal record for civil marriage in England and Wales.  

The marriage register has been replaced and couples will now sign a marriage schedule.

Gareth Owens, Chief Officer Governance for neighbouring Flintshire County Council, said; “This is the most significant change in civil registration since 1837 and the Registration Service is delighted to be part of this exciting change. 

 “The Registrar will be responsible for a new marriage schedule and after a marriage ceremony will record the details on an electronic system, creating the legal record and allowing for marriage certificates to be printed.  The electronic register will be secure, more efficient for keeping marriage records and it will also allow mothers details to be included on the marriage entry rather than just father."

Couples who have given their Notice of Marriage for marriage ceremonies after 4 May, 2021 will have the option to include all four parents’ details at the time of their ceremony.  The Registration Service will assist couples prior to their ceremony.

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