Legal Definitions - confidential marriage

A confidential marriage is a legally recognized marriage where the official record of the marriage is not made publicly accessible. Unlike a standard public marriage, where the marriage certificate and license are part of public records that can be viewed by anyone, a confidential marriage keeps these documents sealed or restricted from general public inspection.

This option is typically available to couples who meet specific criteria, often including a requirement that they have been living together as spouses before applying for the confidential marriage license. The primary benefit of a confidential marriage is the enhanced privacy it offers regarding the official documentation of the union, while still providing all the legal rights and responsibilities of a standard marriage.

Here are some examples illustrating how a confidential marriage might apply:

• Example 1: Public Figures Seeking Privacy

  A well-known actress and her partner, who have been together for several years, decide to get married. Due to their high public profile, they wish to avoid media scrutiny and public attention surrounding their marriage details. They opt for a confidential marriage.

  Explanation: By choosing a confidential marriage, the couple can legally formalize their union without the official marriage record becoming a public document easily accessible to tabloids, fans, or other interested parties. This allows them to maintain a degree of privacy regarding their personal milestone.

• Example 2: Long-Term Cohabiting Couple Formalizing Their Union

  An elderly couple has lived together as partners for over 40 years, sharing finances, property, and a family, but never officially married. Now, for estate planning, healthcare directives, and social security benefits, they decide to legally marry. They do not want a public ceremony or for their long-established, private relationship to suddenly become a matter of public record.

  Explanation: A confidential marriage allows this couple to obtain all the legal protections and benefits of marriage, such as spousal rights for inheritance and medical decisions, while ensuring that the official record of their marriage remains private, respecting their long-standing desire for discretion.

• Example 3: Individuals with Sensitive Personal Histories

  A couple plans to marry, but one partner has a past personal history that, while fully disclosed to their spouse, they prefer not to be easily discoverable by others through a public record search. They value the legal recognition and security of marriage but also their personal privacy.

  Explanation: By choosing a confidential marriage, the couple can obtain a valid marriage license and certificate, granting them all the legal rights and responsibilities of marriage, while keeping the official record sealed from public view. This helps protect their personal information and provides peace of mind regarding their privacy.