Georgia § 19-3-1 - Prerequisites to valid marriage.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 19-3-1 — Prerequisites to valid marriage., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 19-3-1. Prerequisites to valid marriage.
To constitute a valid marriage in this state there must be: Parties able to contract; An actual contract; and Consummation according to law. (Orig. Code 1863, § 1653; Code 1868, § 1697; Code 1873, § 1698; Code 1882, § 1698; Civil Code 1895, § 2411; Civil Code 1910, § 2930; Code 1933, § 53-101.) Law reviews. - For article discussing changes in and case application of statutes concerning marriage, divorce, and custody law in 1976 to 1977, see 29 Mercer L. Rev. 103 (1977). For article, "Georgia Inheritance Rights of Children Born Out of Wedlock," see 23 Ga. St. B.J. 28 (1986). For article, "A Holy Secular Institution," see 58 Emory L.J. 1123 (2009). For article, "Speech or Conduct? The Free Speech Claim of Wedding Vendors," see 65 Emory L.J. 241 (2015).
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 19-3-1
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 19-3-1 cover?
Section 19-3-1 ("Prerequisites to valid marriage.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Georgia § 19-3-1?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 19-3-1" (Georgia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 19-3-1 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.