Legal Definitions - solemnization

Definition: Solemnization refers to the formal performance of a ceremony, such as a marriage ceremony, in the presence of witnesses. It is different from a clandestine ceremony, which is done secretly.

Example 1: The solemnization of the marriage between John and Jane was held in a church, with their families and friends as witnesses.

Example 2: The couple decided to have a clandestine ceremony in a secluded location, without any witnesses.

The first example illustrates solemnization because it describes a formal ceremony that was performed in the presence of witnesses. The second example, on the other hand, is an example of a clandestine ceremony, which is the opposite of solemnization.