Press Release |
For the first time since 2020, and 2014 before that, Valentine’s Day lands on a Friday, which also happens to be the most popular day for courthouse weddings.
Judge Diann Marsalek, who presides over marriage court, is predicting a higher-than-usual profusion of lace and flowers next Friday in addition to the typical pink and red decorations.
Marsalek said Friday is typically the busiest wedding day because couples can celebrate over the weekend. On the court’s busiest days, judges can marry between 200 and 250 couples.
Journalists who wish to photograph the wedding ceremonies should get permission from the couples. Marriage court for downtown Chicago is located in the lower level of the County Building, 118 N. Clark St., though Marsalek said that overflow may be handled across the street, in the Daley Center.
A valid marriage or civil union license and a $10 administrative fee are required. Couples must obtain a marriage or civil union license at least one day, but no longer than 60 days, prior to the ceremony.
Couples should arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to closing. Times and restrictions vary by location, so it is recommended that couples call in advance to confirm location details. Court is open between 9 a.m. and noon, and between 2 and 4 p.m. on Friday. More information is available on the Court’s website.
Media Contact: ocj.press@cookcountyil.gov
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