The Policy & Resources Committee are seeking views from the public on potential changes to how marriages are conducted in the Bailiwick, including the procedures and formalities of marriage, who can solemnise a marriage and where and when that marriage ceremony can take place.
The current marriage law dates back to 1919 and sets out the requirements for the formalities of a civil marriage, such as the notification periods, where a marriage can take place and requirements for those who conduct the marriage ceremony, the 'celebrants'. The formalities apply to all civil marriages. The requirements differ to those of Church of England marriages, where the Ecclesiastical Court issues the marriage licence for Anglican marriages.
Over time, the Law has been added to and changed, but never reviewed or updated as a whole. It is now considered time to look at the Law to make sure it is inclusive, fit for a modern society, simpler, while giving couples more control and choice and continuing to ensure that appropriate checks are in place against illegal, forced and sham marriages.
The survey for this consultation closed on Friday 13th July 2018, the results have now been published and can be found in the downloads section of this page.
The proposals setting out how to reform the legislation were agreed by the States of Guernsey on 27th February, 2019. A copy of the Policy Letter can be found here.
If you would like any further information please contact StrategicPolicy@gov.gg.
Closed: 13th July 2018
