Rhode Island § 15-3-15 - Solemnization of Marriages
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 15-3-15 — Solemnization of Marriages, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-3-15. Solemnization of Marriages
R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-3-15
§ 15-3-15. Marriages valid despite irregularities — Penalty for marriage without compliance.
(a) No marriage solemnized before a person professing to have a license to join persons in marriage as required by this chapter, or professing to be a justice of the supreme, superior, or family court, or a warden of the town of New Shoreham, or solemnized in the Society of Friends, or among persons professing the Jewish religion or Baha’i faith according to their respective rites and ceremonies, shall be deemed or adjudged to be void, nor shall the validity of the marriage be in any way affected by want of jurisdiction or authority in the person or Society nor by reason of noncompliance with any of the requirements of this chapter, if the marriage is in other respects lawful and has been performed with a full belief on the part of the persons so married, or either of them, that they have been lawfully joined in marriage.
(b) But whoever gives, or procures to be given, any false information as to the requirements under §§ 15-2-1 — 15-2-10, or whoever is married without duly proceeding as is required by chapters 1 — 3 of this title, shall be fined not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00).
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 191, § 22; P.L. 1898, ch. 549, § 1; C.P.A. 1905, § 1228; G.L. 1909,
ch. 243, § 22; G.L. 1923, ch. 287, § 22; G.L. 1938, ch. 415, § 22; G.L. 1956, § 15-3-15;
P.L. 1988, ch. 84, § 64.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 15-3-15
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 15-3-15 cover?
Section 15-3-15 ("Solemnization of Marriages") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island § 15-3-15?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 15-3-15" (Rhode Island). 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 Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 15-3-15 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island.