On May 13, the Maryland Judiciary began processing marriage licenses remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This change was welcomed by many in Maryland, as previously, marriage licenses were only issued in emergency cases. Anne Arundel County residents Mary Morrow and her fiancé were among the first to take advantage of this new process.
Morrow applied for a marriage license at the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County shortly after May 13. Her original wedding date was set for May 23, with plans for a ceremony and celebration for 90 guests on the Chesapeake Bay. However, like many couples, their plans changed due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“When the restrictions on gatherings started, we hoped to have them lifted by the wedding,” said Morrow. “We debated on whether to wait it out and get married later or try to get married now.”
Under Maryland law, applicants must appear before a circuit court clerk in person. However, an Executive Order allowed applications via mail or email with video conferencing or affidavit verification during the state of emergency.
“Incorporating remote processes into daily court operations...has enabled circuit court staff to provide exceptional customer service,” said Judge Laura Ripken of the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County.
Morrow expressed concerns about receiving her license in time but received assistance from Scott Poyer, Clerk of the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County. “Scott personally reached out and listened to our urgent matter,” Morrow said. On May 18, Poyer processed their application quickly outside the courthouse.
“One of the happiest events...is helping couples get married,” said Poyer. “The coronavirus couldn’t stop love; it just delayed it a bit.”
On May 23, Morrow and her fiancé held an outdoor socially distanced ceremony with close family present. “Keep it simple,” advised Morrow to other couples considering marriage during COVID-19.
For more information on applying for a marriage license in Maryland, contact your local circuit court clerk’s office or visit www.mdcourts.gov.