Myth Buster

Scenario

Sam, a 20 years old boy has fallen deeply in love with a girl named Holiday and proposed to her on her 15th birthday. After successfully putting a ring on Holiday’s finger, both of them went to JPN to register their marriage. Is it true that they can get married just like that?

Mythbusted.

According to Section 12(1) of Law Reform (Marriage and Divorce) Act 1976, for the groom who is above 18 but below 21 years old, he has to obtain consent of his father, alternatively the mother (if the father passed away) for the marriage.

As for the bride, she has to be at least 16 years old to be eligible for marriage. However, the 16-18 years old bride would have to apply from JPN for a Special Marriage License which is issued by the Chief Minister. Similar to the groom, consent of her father/mother is needed before she turns 21.

Hence, Sam and Holiday cannot get married yet, as the minimum age to be a bride has to be at least 16 years old. It is also advisable for young adults to obtain consent from both their parents before making any decision.

So, how much did you know about this Legal Myth?

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