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- Blood tests are not required St.2004, c.388 (MGL Section 28A Chapter 207 repealed).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 Office of the Governor.
