Chesterfield County Marriage Records
Chesterfield County marriage records are maintained by the Probate Court in the northeastern part of South Carolina. The Probate Court issues marriage licenses and maintains official records for the county. Both parties must appear in person to apply. The county serves residents of Chesterfield and surrounding rural communities.
Chesterfield County Quick Facts
Chesterfield County Probate Court Marriage Records
The Chesterfield County Probate Court handles all marriage license applications. This office is located in the county seat of Chesterfield. Staff process applications for residents and non-residents alike. The court follows South Carolina state law for all marriage matters.
Marriage records in Chesterfield County are maintained as public documents. These records include applications, licenses, and certificates. The Probate Court keeps these files organized and accessible.
Both parties must appear together at the Probate Court office. This requirement ensures both applicants consent to the marriage. Staff will verify identities and witness signatures.
| Court |
Chesterfield County Probate Court Chesterfield, SC chesterfieldcountysc.com |
|---|---|
| Hours | Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Website | chesterfieldcountysc.com |
How to Apply for Marriage Records in Chesterfield County
Applying for a marriage license in Chesterfield County requires an in-person visit. Both parties must appear together at the Probate Court. The process follows state requirements under South Carolina law.
The first step is to visit the Probate Court during office hours. Bring valid photo identification for both applicants. Driver's licenses or state ID cards are accepted forms.
Complete the marriage license application at the courthouse. Staff will assist with any questions. The application collects basic personal information.
Fees must be paid before the license can be processed. Chesterfield County charges different rates for residents and non-residents. See the fees section below for details.
Under S.C. Code Ann. § 20-1-220, a waiting period applies. The license cannot be issued for twenty-four hours after application. Plan your wedding date with this delay in mind.
Chesterfield County Marriage License Fees
Chesterfield County charges different fees based on residency. South Carolina residents pay a lower rate than out-of-state applicants. Fees must be paid before processing begins.
South Carolina residents pay $50 for a marriage license. This rate applies if either party resides in the state. Bring proof of residency when applying.
Non-residents pay $75 for a marriage license in Chesterfield County. This applies when both parties live outside South Carolina. The higher fee reflects additional processing.
All fees must be paid before the license application is processed. The court accepts various payment methods. Call ahead to confirm acceptable forms of payment.
Certified copies of marriage certificates cost extra. Contact the Probate Court for current copy fees. These fees are subject to change.
Note: Fees are set by state law and county policy. They may be updated periodically.
Chesterfield County Marriage License Residency Requirements
Chesterfield County distinguishes between resident and non-resident applicants. Residency affects the license fee. It does not affect eligibility to marry.
To qualify for resident rates, at least one party must live in South Carolina. Bring documentation showing your in-state address. A driver's license with a South Carolina address is sufficient.
Non-residents may still marry in Chesterfield County. You do not need to live in South Carolina to apply. The license will be valid throughout the state.
Many couples choose Chesterfield County for destination weddings. The rural setting provides a scenic backdrop. The Probate Court welcomes out-of-state visitors.
Your residency does not affect where you can marry. A Chesterfield County license is valid in any South Carolina county. You are not limited to marrying within Chesterfield County.
Required Documents for Chesterfield County Marriage Licenses
Chesterfield County requires specific documentation for marriage licenses. Bring these items when you visit the Probate Court. Missing documents will delay your application.
Both parties need valid government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms include driver's licenses, passports, and military IDs. The ID must be current and not expired.
Social Security numbers are required for both applicants. You do not need to bring the physical card. Simply knowing your number is sufficient.
If previously married, bring proof the marriage ended. Divorce decrees or death certificates are accepted. The court needs to verify you are free to marry.
Residency documentation may be required for fee purposes. A driver's license with a South Carolina address works. Utility bills or lease agreements may also be accepted.
How to Search Chesterfield County Marriage Records
Chesterfield County maintains marriage records for all licenses issued. These records are public documents. You can search them by visiting the courthouse.
To search records in person, visit the Probate Court. Staff can help locate specific marriage records. There may be a fee for copies of documents.
For certified copies, contact the Probate Court directly. Provide the names of both parties and the marriage date. Include payment for copy fees.
Historical Chesterfield County records may be at the state archives. The South Carolina Department of Archives and History holds older documents. Check their website for access information.
Under South Carolina law, marriage records are public. Anyone can request to view or copy them. You do not need to be a party to the marriage.
Chesterfield County Marriage License Waiting Period
South Carolina requires a waiting period for marriage licenses. This applies in Chesterfield County and all counties. The waiting period is twenty-four hours.
The waiting period begins when you submit your application. You cannot receive your license until the next business day. Weekends and holidays do not count toward the waiting period.
No exceptions are made to the waiting period. All couples must wait twenty-four hours. This is a state law that counties cannot waive.
Once issued, your license has no expiration date. You can use it at any time. There is no rush to hold your ceremony.
Plan your application date carefully. Apply at least two days before your wedding. This ensures your license is ready in time.
Chesterfield County Area Information
Chesterfield County is located in the northeastern corner of South Carolina. The rural county offers scenic landscapes and small-town charm. The county seat is the town of Chesterfield.
The Probate Court is located in the heart of Chesterfield. Historic buildings line the main streets. You can explore the area before or after your court visit.
Nearby towns include Cheraw, Pageland, and McBee. Each has its own character and history. Consider these communities for wedding venues.
The Great Pee Dee River flows through Chesterfield County. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy fishing and boating. The natural beauty makes for memorable wedding photos.
Charlotte, North Carolina is about an hour away. This provides access to urban amenities. Out-of-state visitors often fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
Nearby Counties
Chesterfield County is located in northeastern South Carolina. Several counties border this area. Marriage licenses must be obtained in the county where you will marry.