Details on same-sex marriage in Iowa

Posted on April 26, 2009
Filed Under Uncategorized

Marriage requirements in Iowa remain the same, with the exception that the ban on same-sex marriage has been eliminated:

–Two people, over 18.

–Not already legally married.

–Not closely related.

-Legally competent to enter into a civil contract.

To get a license:

–Visit a county recorder’s office and fill out an application.

–Show proof of identity.

–Pay a $35 fee.

–Have a witness sign the application.

–Both parties must be present or have the form notarized.

–Submit application and wait three days for license to be valid.

For the ceremony:

–It must be in Iowa, with both parties, an officiate and two witnesses present. All must sign the marriage certificate.

–Officiant, a judge or leader of religious faith, files certificate with county recorder within 15 days

–Same-sex marriage licenses submitted on Monday, April 27, the day Iowa legalizes same-sex marriage, will become valid on Thursday, April 30. Judges can grant a waiver.

What if a same-sex couple has had a ceremony elsewhere?:

–If a same-sex couple has been legally married elsewhere, their marriage is valid in Iowa as of Monday. They do not have to get remarried.

–It is unclear if civil unions from another state or registered domestic partnerships will be recognized in Iowa.

For more see Details on same-sex marriage in Iowa
Chicago Tribune – United States