Statutory Declaration – Freedom to Marry. Get yours here.

A Statutory Declaration of Freedom to Marry is a formal statement confirming that an individual is legally free to marry.

This declaration is often required when marrying abroad or by certain religious institutions within the UK.

In many countries you may need an Apostille on Declaration which is a certificate from the UK Government confirming it’s authenticity.

If you need help with a Statutory Declaration – give us a call on +4420 7499 2605 or email us on notary@notarypubliclondon.co.uk.

We will talk you through, what you need to do.

Why are Declarations of Freedom needed?

The primary purpose of this declaration is to affirm that the individual has never been married.

Or if the person was previously married, that they are now divorced or widowed, and thus free to enter into a new marriage.

In simple terms it is a sworn statement to say that there is no impediment to you marrying someone.

See our page on Certificate of No Impediment to see whether this is suitable to you.

Do you need an Apostille on a Declarations of Freedom?

Unfortunately the answer is: it depends.

It depends on where you are getting married.

BEST ADVICE – ask the celebrant of the marriage or the person or company helping you organise your wedding.

We know that most British people may never have heard of Apostilles. So take a look our Apostille Service page, our Apostille London page or our Apostille Definition page for more information on Apostilles.

Translations

If you need a translation of your Declaration, we can help. Give us a ring now if you have any questions on 020 7499 2605.

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The process of making a Freedom to Marry Declaration

Process of Making the Declaration

The process generally involves the following steps:

  1. Consultation with a Legal Professional: Schedule an appointment with a solicitor, notary public, or commissioner for oaths to discuss the requirements and process.
    • If you are getting married abroad it is usually best to use a Notary Public for this.
  2. Preparation of the Declaration: The legal professional will draft the declaration, ensuring it meets all legal requirements.​ Or, you can use the template below but ensure to check with the celebrant of the marriage ceremony or as to whether this is suitable.
  3. Signing and Witnessing: Sign the declaration in the presence of the legal professional, who will then witness and authenticate the document.

It’s important to note that making a false statement in a statutory declaration is a serious offense and can lead to legal consequences, including prosecution and potential imprisonment. ​

Do I need any other documents?

You might. As before, ask the celebrant as to what the specific requirements are.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of related documents:

  • Birth certificate (Original or certified copy)
  • Deed Poll (If you’ve changed your name)
  • Adoption Certificate (if you’re adopted)
  • Proof of address (Such as a utility bill or bank statement). See our ultimate guide to proof of address documents.
  • Proof of ID (such as a Passport or Photo Driving Licence). We have a comprehensive guide to forms of ID.

You may also need the following depending on your circumstances:

  • Decree Absolute  (If previously married and divorced)
  • Death certificate (If widowed) See our guide on how to obtain one.
  • Letter of No Trace (Also called a No Trace or Trace Letter)

Statutory Declaration of Freedom to Marry Template

I [First name, surname] of [address] do solemnly and sincerely declare that:

1. I was born on [date] at [place] and I believe my parents are [CB and DB] formerly [DC] as is shown in the certificate of the registration of my birth, a copy of which is attached and marked “AB 1”.

[2. On the [date] I married [first wife] at [place] as is shown in the certificate of the registration of the marriage a copy of which is attached and marked “AB 2”..

[3. On the [date] the marriage between myself and [first wife/husband] was dissolved by Decree of Divorce pronounced [Court] a official copy of which divorce decree is attached and marked “AB 3”.]

4. Since the [date] I have not married anyone but have remained a single [woman/man].

5. To the best of my knowledge, information and belief I am not related by blood marriage or in any way to [proposed husband/wife] who was born on [date] and resides at [address], the holder of [as case may be] passport/I.D. number [-]

6. There is no just cause or impediment to prevent me marrying [proposed husband/wife]

……………………………..[signature]

AND I make this declaration in accordance with the Statutory Declarations Act 1835

BEFORE ME the Notary IN witness whereof I have signed my name and affixed my seal of office

SIGNED and sealed at London on [date]

……………………………[signature]                       [seal]

Notary Public

England and Wales                                             

If you need to swear a Freedom to Marry Declaration – get in touch.

Call us now on +44207499 2605 or email us notary@notarypubliclondon.co.uk

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