Delaware is Making it Easier for Parolees to Get Married in 2026

Update to Deleware marriage license process for individuals on parole & probation coming in 2025 / 2026

 

Delaware Lawmakers passed a bill this month that will make it easier for people on parole or probation to get married. By next year, these individuals will no longer need special permission from a court officer to apply for a marriage license in the state – they’ll be able to make a simple appointment with the clerk’s office, just like other couples do. 

 

Governor Matt Meyer signed the bill on July 1st (DE SB7), following unanimous support in both the House and Senate. The new law goes into effect on Dec 28th, 2025.

 

Currently, it can be a complicated process for people on parole or probation to get married in Delaware. To apply for a marriage license, these individuals must first get written consent from their supervising officer and file it with a clerk of the peace. By removing this barrier to marriage, the new law makes it easier for formerly-incarcerated individuals to reenter their communities and rejoin their families.

 

Related: How to Get Married in Delaware - Planning a wedding in The First State

 

Once the new law goes into effect, parolees and probationers will be able to apply for a marriage license in the same way that other individuals do, by making an appointment with their local clerk of the peace  – without any extra steps or special permission. 

 

John Reynolds, the Deputy Policy & Advocacy Director for the American Civil Liberties Union of Delaware, has stated that the “The current approach to probation focuses too much on surveillance and punishment rather than helping people successfully reenter society.” 

 

In terms of marriage however, it seems things may be shifting. 

 

 

• See all Delaware Marriage Laws

 

• Read the full text of Delaware Senate Bill 7, sponsored by Senator Pinkney: DE SB7 An Act to Amend Title 11 and Title 13 of the Delaware Code Relating to the Criminal Justice System, Including Probation.

 

• Read AMM's previous coverage on this topic: Delaware Might Simplify Marriage Process for Parolees

 

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How will this law affect AMM Ministers who officiate weddings in Delaware? 

 

Changes to the way some marriage licenses are issued in Delaware will not impact the role of AMM Ministers who solemnize marriage there. Because marriage licenses are issued by the clerk’s office, it will be the clerk’s responsibility to confirm that each applicant is eligible for a license when they are issued.

 

However, all ministers who perform marriage ceremonies should confirm the names of the people they’re marrying before the wedding. This can be done by comparing a person’s government-issued ID or photo ID card to the name printed on their marriage license. 

 

To become a wedding officiant in Delaware, click the links below! 

 

• How to Become a Wedding Officiant in Delaware

 

• Get Ordained in Delaware
   
• How To Officiate a Wedding in Delaware

 

 

 

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More Delaware Wedding Ideas & Inspiration

 

• How to Plan a Beach Wedding for Any Time of Year
   
• How Much Does it Cost to Get Ordained Online in Delaware to Officiate a Wedding?
   
• How to Officiate a Wedding For the First Time
   

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