Civil Marriage
/ˈsɪvəl ˈmærɪdʒ/
Definitions
- (n.) A legally recognized marriage solemnized by a government official rather than a religious ceremony.
They chose to have a civil marriage at the city hall instead of a church wedding.
Forms
- civil marriage
- civil marriages
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Civil marriage underscores the legal recognition by the state independent of religious rites; when drafting, distinguish clearly from religious or customary unions.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.