Marriage Licenses
The wedding ceremony is only one part of the marriage process. The marriage license, papers authorizing a legal marriage, must be filed and filled out to make the bondage legal in the eyes of the government. For Cincinnati couples, Hamilton County Probate Court is the place to be.
“Our purpose is to issue Marriage Licenses to Hamilton County residents who wish to marry in Ohio” (Hamilton County Probate Court.2012). Not only will your marriage be deemed as legitimate, but it will also be kept in the records of Hamilton County.
The average fee of a license is in the range of $50.00-$100.00, which is payable in cash. The marriage ceremony may be performed anywhere in the state of Ohio, unless otherwise restricted by the county in which the ceremony will take place. A premarital physical examination and blood test may be required. A marriage license is valid for a limited period of time. Minimum age requirements usually apply.
A marriage ceremony cannot take place unless a valid marriage license has been issued. Always call the County Courthouse well in advance of your ceremony date to determine specific requirements needed.
To apply for a marriage license, both parties must appear and present documentation. Typical documents to provide include: birth certificate, driver’s license, passport (if available), and social security card.
Hamilton County Probate Court contact information:
Main Office:
Phone:
513-946-3590 (24 hour recorded information line)
513-946-3589 (office extension between 8:00 am – 4:00 pm)
Fax:
513-946-3577
Postal:
Hamilton County Probate Court, James Cissell, Judge
230 E. Ninth Street, 10th Floor
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-2145