Frequently Asked Questions

Justice Michele C. Campbell

What do we need to do to get married in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts?

You need a valid marriage license and an officiant. Premarital blood tests are no longer required by the Commonwealth. Click here to download the application.

Where can I obtain a marriage license?

You can obtain a marriage license in any town in the Commonwealth. Requirements may vary as each city or town in Massachusetts may have their own requirements. You are encouraged to call ahead to confirm the requirements. In Springfield, you can call the City Clerk’s Office at 413-787-6094. This office is located at City Hall Room 123 (first floor). The hours of operation are 8:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. (Monday – Friday) , Thursdays until 6:00 p.m. Please click here for a list of Massachusetts City and town clerks.

What is the procedure when going to apply for a marriage license?

Proper identification is necessary in Massachusetts. You may be required to show a certified birth certificate. You must be 18 years of age. The license is issued three (3) days after the parties file their Intentions to be married. Both parties must appear in person together at the Clerk’s Office. The cost is $40.00 and is due at the time of filing Intentions. Payment can be made by check, cash, credit card or debit card.

How long is the license valid?

The marriage license is valid for sixty (60) days and may take place anywhere in Massachusetts during the sixty (60) days following the date of filing Intentions and after satisfying the three (3) day waiting period.

Will You Marry Same-Sex Couples?

Absolutely! Effective May 17, 2004, legislation was passed allowing same-sex couples to marry in Massachusetts.

What about previous marriages?

There are no special requirements or restrictions in Massachusetts counties. However other states may require that you wait ninety (90) days after your divorce is final before remarrying. It is recommended that you call the city or town where your divorce was granted.

Are witnesses needed?

No. Only the two individuals who are getting married and I are required to be present.

Do you need rings for the ceremony?

No. Rings are traditional, but they are not required for the ceremony.

What will you wear?

I usually wear a plain black robe. I also have a white robe if this is your preference.

What happens after the ceremony?

After the wedding, there is nothing for you to sign, nor will you receive any documents automatically (even though you are legally married). You may purchase however a marriage certificate which I have designed as a keepsake. However, you will not automatically receive an official copy of your Certificate of Marriage from your town. You must apply for this with the Town Clerk or City Clerk where you applied for your license. There is a nominal charge for this certified Certificate. The cost varies by town. Officiants are not permitted to give you a copy. Instead, they are required (by law) to complete the Certificate of Marriage and mail it back to the Town Clerk or City Clerk from whom you obtained your license. I recommend that you to obtain a copy of your Certificate of Marriage from the Town or City Clerk after your wedding. You should file it away with your other important documents (such as your Birth Certificates, etc.). You may not need it for many years, but it will be good to know that you always have a ready copy, rather than having to retrieve it from the Commonwealth at some date in the future.

How much will you charge to officiate my wedding?

My fees are governed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. If your wedding is within the city limits of Springfield, MA, my fee is $100. If it is outside of Springfield, my fee is $150. If I have to travel outside of Western, MA, I charge a flat rate for mileage. Payments can be made through bank check, money order or cash. Please make payments out to Michele Campbell. Personal checks are not accepted.

What does the fee include?

All fees include one meeting, performing the wedding ceremony and filing the marriage license.

When is Payment Due?

A $50 non-refundable deposit is due in order to hold the wedding date. If mailing this deposit, please send to:

P.O. Box 80477, Springfield, MA 01138.

The remaining balance is due 24 hours before the ceremony is performed. In order for the ceremony to take place, I must have the Marriage Certificate. I cannot perform your ceremony until I have viewed the expiration date on your marriage license. This is required by Massachusetts law.

Delayed Ceremony Fees (additional) are as follows:

30-45 minutes: $50
45-60 minutes: $100
60-75 minutes: $150 (If I have another wedding to officiate, I will not be able to conduct your wedding.)

75-90 minutes: $200 (If I have another wedding to officiate, I will not be able to conduct your wedding.)

Will you meet with us before the wedding?

I am available to meet with you. Please call (413) 244-4410 to make arrangements. Your wedding fee includes one meeting. You may call my cell phone or email mcljop@outlook.com as needed.

Are you available for wedding rehearsals?

Yes. The charge for wedding rehearsals is $80.

What types of ceremonies do you offer?

I offer a traditional Christian wedding ceremony, a civil (non-religious) ceremony and renewal of vows ceremony (for couples who are already married).

Can I customize my own ceremony and can others be included in the ceremony?

Yes, there are many ways to include family members and friends in the ceremony. For example, your loved ones can do readings, walk down the aisle, carry the rings, participate in a candle lighting, and more. There are unlimited possibilities.

Can I order a wedding certificate?

Yes. Customized Wedding Certificates are available for an additional $10. If you would like your customized wedding certificate framed, the cost is $15.