Does obtaining JUST a marriage license make you legally married?

My sister is getting married next year and because both her and her fiancee are Lao (country of Laos) they will have a traditional Lao wedding in either Massachusetts or New Hampshire.





Because a traditional Lao wedding ceremony involves an older, respected member of the community to over see the ceremony, there is no religious element to this.





So, if they obtain their marriage license in either state, does that make them legally married? Do they need a judge or justice of the peace to make it official?





Thanks!Does obtaining JUST a marriage license make you legally married?
No, most states require a minister or other officiant's signature for it to be a valid statement of marriage.Does obtaining JUST a marriage license make you legally married?
The license is simply written approval to get married; it's not a marriage certificate. They'll still need a JP or a judge to legalize the ceremony.
Debi nailed it - you still need a JP or Judge to sign off on the marriage license - which in turn becomes a marriage certificate once its filed with the Clerk of the Courts office
Obtaining a license does not make you married. It requires a ceremony.
No you have to be sworn in !!

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