Legal Definitions - ceremonial marriage

Definition: A legal union between two individuals as husband and wife that follows all the statutory requirements and is solemnized before a religious or civil official. The essentials of a valid marriage are parties legally capable of contracting to marry, mutual consent or agreement, and an actual contracting in the form prescribed by law. Marriage has important consequences in many areas of the law, such as torts, criminal law, evidence, debtor–creditor relations, property, and contracts.

Example: John and Jane had a ceremonial marriage in a church with a priest officiating. They both met the legal requirements for marriage and gave their mutual consent to be married. Their marriage is legally recognized and has important consequences in various areas of the law.

Explanation: The example illustrates a ceremonial marriage that follows all the legal requirements and is solemnized before a religious official. The couple gave their mutual consent to be married, and their marriage is legally recognized. The example also mentions the important consequences of marriage in various areas of the law.