Wedding Ceremonies in the Magistrate Court

The judges of the Magistrate Court perform weddings for the public by advance appointment at the courthouse at 9:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Mondays and Fridays. The Magistrate Court will be unable to perform weddings that fall on Athens-Clarke County Observed Holidays which result in the closure of the court.

Scheduling a Wedding Ceremony at the Magistrate Court

Prior to scheduling a wedding, a couple must obtain a wedding license. For residents of Athens-Clarke County, a wedding license can be obtained from the Athens-Clarke County Probate Court. The couple should obtain a wedding license and schedule for the wedding ceremony in advance in the office of the Magistrate Court, Room 240 in the Athens-Clarke County Courthouse.

Cost of Weddings at the Magistrate Court

Weddings performed at the courthouse during normal business hours are free. State law prohibits judges performing weddings during normal business hours from receiving any form of payment, gift, or compensation.

What to Bring to the Wedding

Please bring a valid wedding license and a valid form of photo identification for both individuals partaking in the marriage. You may bring cameras or video recorders, but you will need to let the deputies at the security entrance know about the equipment when you pass through security.

Interpreters

Although some of our Magistrate Court Judges may not speak Spanish, Judges are provided a Spanish-translated script for weddings where Spanish is requested. However, bringing an interpreter to these ceremonies is still highly recommended for the couple. For all other languages, a couple is also welcome to bring an interpreter for their wedding. Magistrate Court does not provide interpreters for weddings at this time.

Requests for Weddings Away from the Courthouse

The judges do not regularly perform weddings at locations away from the courthouse, but you may contact the clerk of Magistrate Court by calling 706-613-3310 for questions. Any requests need to be in writing and provided either in person or by fax to 706-613-3314. Please include a valid phone number and the names of the parties so the court may contact you concerning your request. All wedding requests will be forwarded to the judges for consideration.

Please Note: 

Courthouse wedding times and days are subject to change without advance notice.