WEDDING APPLICATION INFORMATION
We are asked numerous questions about the procedure for planning a wedding. We suggest you contact Provincetown TOWN CLERK, at 508-487-7013 or visit their site www.provincetown-ma.gov for the most up to date information.
If you want to get married in Massachusetts:
* There is a 3 day waiting period from the time you file your marriage of intention form at Provincetown Town Hall.
* A list of marriage officiates is available on the town wed site.
* You should check with the Town Clerk's office if you are from out of state and plan to marry in Massachusetts. The state is enforcing a 1913 law that prohibits couples from marrying in this state if there marriage would not be recognised as lawful in their home state. There may be problems regarding the legality of your union if you do not plan to reside in this state sometime in the future.
THE RIGHT TO MARRY
“Marriage is a vital social institution. The exclusive commitment of two individuals to each other nurtures love and mutual support, it brings stability to our society…
The question before us is whether, consistent with the Massachusetts Constitution, the Commonwealth may deny the protections, benefits, and obligations conferred by civil marriage to two individuals of the same sex who wish to marry.
We conclude that it may not. The Massachusetts Constitution affirms the dignity and equality of all individuals. It forbids the creation of second-class citizens…the arguments made…failed to identify any constitutionally adequate reason for denying civil marriage of same-sex couples.”
Chief Justice Margaret H Marshall
Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts
November 18, 2003
