Under New Law, You Must Be 18 to Marry – Even in a Traditional Ceremony
On 27th February 2023, the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022 came into force. Although it was previously acceptable for those as young as 16 to marry if they had parental consent, the new law raises the legal age to 18. The UK Government believes the new law will protect children, reduce forced marriage, and support the well-being and development of girls.
It is now a criminal offence for children under age 18 to marry, in any circumstances. There is no need to prove that force or coercion was used. The law also applies to cultural or religious marriages that are not legally binding.
The children involved will not be penalised; however, any adult who facilitates child marriages could face up to 7 years in prison.
By Tiffany Carpenter