Wedding Ceremonies


WHAT IS A CIVIL OR COURT WEDDING?


A civil wedding is a marriage ceremony performed by a judge or clerk of court serving in a magistrate capacity.  These ceremonies are performed at the local courthouse, by appointment with the clerk’s office.
 


WHEN
ARE CIVIL WEDDINGS PERFORMED?


It is our policy to perform wedding ceremonies in the courthouse or on courthouse grounds during regular work hours.  Office hours are listed below:
 

·         Office hours:  Monday-Friday  8:00-5:00 – Brown, Day, Edmunds, Roberts, Spink & Walworth Counties

·         Office hours:  Monday-Thursday  8:00-5:00 - Marshall County

·         Office hours:  Monday-Friday 8:00-Noon – McPherson County

·         Office hours:  Monday-Friday Noon-5:00 – Faulk County

·         Office hours:  Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 8:00-Noon – Campbell County 

Depending on court activity, an appointment is preferred.  You may be asked to return at another time if you do not have an appointment. 


IS THERE A FEE?


Yes, a fee of $20 is required to be collected by the Clerk of Court per South Dakota law.  This is in addition to the fee you will pay for a marriage license.  No tips or gratuities are to be accepted by the person performing the ceremony. 


WHAT MUST I BRING TO THE CEREMONY?


Your South Dakota
marriage license and photographic identification is all that is required.  Two witnesses (also with identification) will be needed to sign the certificate.  


WHERE DO WE
GET THE MARRIAGE LICENSE?


You can obtain a marriage license from any county Register of Deeds in South Dakota.  There is a fee for issuing the license, and once it is obtained, the marriage must take place within 20 days or the license becomes void.  Contact the
county Register of Deeds for more information about age, consent, and other specific requirements for obtaining the license.