A WEDDING CEREMONY

Abstract

It is an essential requirement for a valid marriage that it is a voluntary act of both parties. Lack of consent is a legal impediment and can therefore be grounds for the marriage to be stopped or deferred. You should refer to guidance in the handbook on deferring or stopping ceremonies. If a superintendent registrar considers that either party is acting under duress it is his duty to defer or stop the proceedings and discuss his concerns, in private, with the individual. If the individual is worried for their safety, do not leave them alone with family or community members and do not allow them to leave the premises alone or with their family. Instead, call the FMU during business hours or call the Police outside of these times. Giving Notice to Marry The bride and groom each has to give notice of marriage, in person, to the superintendent registrar of the relevant district. Cases of forced marriage may involve an overseas national who will be subject to immigration controls so both notices would have to be given at a designated register office. It is at this point that detailed enquires can be made to ascertain whether the marriage may be forced. The bride and groom should always be interviewed in private, independently of each other, without members of their families or communities present. This will help with identifying whether the marriage may be forced. The FMU can help an individual if they disclose that they are being forced to marry. The Police can help if an individual is in immediate fear for their safety. GRO can also offer further advice and guidance. A forced marriage is where one or both people do not (or in cases of people with learning disabilities, cannot) consent to the marriage and pressure or abuse is used. A forced marriage is not the same as an arranged marriage. In an arranged marriage the families take a leading role in choosing the marriage partner, but the marriage is entered into freely by both parties.