Metropolitan Unions: How to Officiate a Wedding in Union County, NJ

The Legal Groundwork: N.J.S.A. 37:1-13

In Union County, your legal authority is firmly established under New Jersey Statute 37:1-13. This state law authorizes every member of the clergy of any religion to solemnize marriages. This mandate includes all ministers ordained through Open Ministry, providing you the same legal standing as any traditional religious leader.

The Title Protocol: Local registrars in cities like Summit, Westfield, and Linden are very specific about your designation on official documents. To ensure a smooth filing process, always sign the marriage license using your clerical title, such as Minister or Reverend. This clearly identifies your religious authority to the State’s digital archival systems.

Step 1: Secure Your Instant Ordination

Your journey begins with your credentials. You can receive your ordination for free and in under five minutes at Open-Ministry.org. This instant ordination grants you the immediate legal standing required by New Jersey to perform wedding ceremonies and sign legal marriage licenses.

Step 2: The 72-Hour Union Window

New Jersey law mandates a 72-hour waiting period between the time a couple applies for their license and when it can be issued.
*Note for 2026:* In Union County, many municipal offices, including Elizabeth and Plainfield, now require appointments for license applications. Encourage your couple to schedule their visit at least 10 days before the wedding to ensure they meet the mandatory three-day wait and have the license in hand for the ceremony.

Step 3: Professionalism at Historic Venues

Union County is home to prestigious locations such as The Clubhouse at Galloping Hill and Shackamaxon Country Club. Venue coordinators at these elite sites often appreciate seeing formal proof of a minister's standing. Carrying the Wedding Officiant Package featuring an embossed Ordination Certificate and Letter of Good Standing ensures you are recognized as a prepared professional.

The Wedding Day Logistics

• Two Witnesses: New Jersey requires two witnesses (ages 18+) to be present and sign the license along with the officiant.
• The Ink: Use Black Ink only. Union County registrars require high-contrast black ink for clear digital scanning and permanent record-keeping.
• The 5-Day Filing: You are legally responsible for returning the signed license to the Local Registrar of the municipality where the wedding *actually took place* within 5 days of the ceremony.