UK Reform for Wedding Law: Everything You Need to Know

When couples contemplate the exciting possibility of marriage, many might not realise the multiple legal and administrative hurdles in place. A lot of the laws governing modern weddings are outdated and unfit to suit the needs of modern couples. The Law Commission of England and Wales has published a report with recommendations on how to simplify and modernise marriage law so it is better suited for 21st-century weddings.

Proposed changes to wedding venues

The proposal includes a recommendation that many couples would be excited about, namely that restrictions in relation to the location of a wedding ceremony should be lifted. Currently, the validity of your marriage could be affected if a wedding has not taken place at an approved venue. Any ceremony that is not taking place at a register office or a building of the Church of England must take place in premises that have been approved (a location that has obtained a special licence). This can be especially restrictive for couples of multiple faiths or same sex couples.

Couples that have a dream wedding location might have to pay for two ceremonies, one which is legally binding, and one which is at their desired location. Due to the current limitations, many picturesque venues that are outdoors are not suitable for a legally binding ceremony. The Law Commission recommends that the officiant (the person conducting the ceremony) can take responsibility for approving the suitability of venues. This would provide much more flexibility. Couples can choose a location that is meaningful to them without worrying that their ceremony might not be legally binding.

Greater flexibility for wedding ceremonies and vows

It is further proposed that the format of the ceremony should be more flexible. Couples should be able to choose what feels right for them and express their feelings for each other accordingly. Religious ceremonies often require specific vows to be said, while there is some uncertainty in relation to vows made in civil ceremonies. The current law prohibits the use of any religious language in civil weddings.

The Law Commission highlights that consent is key, so the couple would still have to confirm their willingness to be married. However, there would be an opportunity for more flexibility as couples could agree on their preference with their officiant and personalise their vows. Such changes would lead to a more meaningful and tailored ceremony.

Marriage remains a legal contract

Everybody wants their wedding day to be perfect, and these proposed changes will allow people to really have their dream day. However, it cannot be forgotten that marriage is ultimately a contract and, with it, comes legal obligations to your spouse, including how finances and assets may be divided.

Legal advice before marriage

If you want advice about what marriage means and how this impacts you and your finances, please do not hesitate to reach out to GoodLaw Solicitors’ matrimonial team. Our lawyers are experienced in advising people contemplating marriage and can offer helpful advice so both you and your partner can be confident in the best way forward.

It may be that a pre-nuptial agreement is something that should be considered and our lawyers can provide independent legal advice and draft a fair agreement which will mean that on your dream day, there doesn’t need to be any worries or concerns.

Please contact us on 01273 956270 or [email protected].