Are there any restrictions on who can be a witness to a marriage?

Yes, there are restrictions on who can be a witness to a marriage in North Carolina. According to the North Carolina General Statutes section 51-2, legal witnesses must be able to prove their identity and must be 18 years of age or older. A witness must also be competent to testify in court. This includes being of sound mind and being able to communicate effectively with the court. In addition to these restrictions, witnesses must also not be related to the bride or groom. This means that you cannot have a parent, sibling, grandparent, or any other relative serve as a witness for your marriage. The only exception to this rule is if the relative happens to be legally authorized to solemnize the marriage in North Carolina. Witnesses may also not be a party to the marriage. This means that they cannot be either the bride or groom. Furthermore, the marriage officiant is not allowed to act as a witness for the marriage. Finally, the witnesses must be present at the ceremony. You cannot designate a proxy for them, as they must be present to witness the marriage in order for it to be considered valid. Overall, witnesses to a marriage in North Carolina must meet all of the listed requirements in order to be valid. They must be 18 or older, be able to prove their identity, be competent to testify in court, not be related to the bride or groom, not be a party to the marriage, and be present at the ceremony.

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