Who can sign as a Witness on my Marriage Documents?
Wed, 22 Aug 2012
Each of the parties to the marriage, the two witnesses and the authorised wedding celebrant must sign all three marriage certificates. This must occur immediately after the marriage has been solemnised.
Anyone can be a witness provided they are over 18 years of age and they were actually present at the ceremony and witnessed the bride and groom sign the document.
The two witnesses are the official legal witnesses to the marriage under law and their presence serves a legal purpose. The purpose is to be able to swear in court as to the identify of the parties or to testify to the circumstances in which the ceremony was performed, including the date and place.
Couples often request additional signatures on the parties' certificate however this is not possible because it is an official certificate and the two witnesses serve an official purpose.
Many couples wrongly believe that the witness to the marriage must be the chief bridesmaid and the best man. This is incorrect. In fact I suggest that a couple consider using someone other than a member of the bridal party. Oftentimes there are siblings or close friends who for one reason or another, are unable to be part of the bridal party. Consider using them as a witness. Make sure that your photographer is aware that someone other than a member of the bridal party will be signing and ensure that you have a photograph with them at that moment.
Many families have that special someone, a grandparent, great Aunt or someone who they have been particularly close to in their lifetime. It may be a close friend who has been overseas who has not been witness to the blossoming of your love story. Consider asking them to be a witness.
Being an official witness to a marriage is a very important duty and provided the person meets the age requirements and understands the language spoken during the ceremony, choose someone who you know would feel very proud and honoured to fulfill this requirement for you.
