Witnessing Consent to the Marriage of a Minor

This file last saved 12 August, 2019 10:47

    Caveats

  1. Under the legislation the witness is required to be sure of the:
    1. identity of the person(s) giving consent;
    2. relationship of the consenting authority with the minor i.e. that they are the parent or legal guardian; and
    3. correct dating of the document as the consent lapses after three months.
  2. Failure to comply means the witness will be liable to a fine or imprisonment under the Act.
  3. You should refuse to witness the document if you are not satisfied as to the identify of the person(s) giving the consent, or as to the relationship with the minor.
  4. There are two set forms. One for both parents to sign, the other for a single parent.

    5. References

  5. The Duties of Justices of the Peace (Qualified) Handbook, Queensland Government - June 2017, Section4.13
    Commonwealth Marriage Act 1961