Massachusetts justices of the peace association weddings marriage ceremony

things to consider

A marriage may be solemnized by a Justice of the Peace, anywhere in the Commonwealth,
G.L. c. 207, § 38.
As a general rule, there is no prescribed form of ceremony to solemnize a marriage. Although particular words are not essential to a ceremonial marriage, the words employed must be sufficient to demonstrate a present marriage contract. At a minimum:
- the parties must assent to a mutual agreement to take each other as marital spouses, and
- the Justice of the Peace must assert to act in his or her official capacity in pronouncing the parties to be married.
A Justice of the Peace may charge a maximum fee of one hundred ($100) dollars to solemnize a marriage within their home community, or a maximum of one hundred and fifty ($150) dollars if the ceremony is performed in any other municipality in the commonwealth.
An additional fee may be charged for prenuptial counseling conferences, rehearsals, and other special requests by the couple whose marriage is being solemnized; provided, however, that the amount of these additional charges must be disclosed in writing to the couple whose marriage is being solemnized at least forty-eight hours before the rending of these services. G.L. c. 262, § 35.
Blood tests are not required St.2004, c.388 (MGL Section 28A Chapter 207 repealed).
Same sex marriages are permitted.
A witness is not required.
Individuals must be 18 years old or older.
Additional information may be found at MGL 207 , Mass Law Library and MA Governor.