How did this service come about?
For many years my Uncle, who was Justice of The Peace here in Tucson was known as the "Marrying Judge" performing over 5,000 weddings. I wanted to carry on the family tradition after his passing and found this to be one of the most rewarding parts of my life. Considering there are many couples that choose to be married outside of a church. In these cases, it can be very difficult to find an officiant who’s willing to perform the wedding ceremony. I always consider it an honor when I am asked to preside over this very special occasion—for any couple, anywhere.

How much does this part of the wedding cost?
Since no two weddings are alike, my fees vary according to your needs. I can perform a nice, simple service or take part in any elaborate ceremony you are planning. I’ll be happy to give you a no obligation quote once we talk and I have a better understanding of what you’re looking for in your wedding ceremony.

What’s a good location for the ceremony?
Whether the journey requires hiking, biking, boarding or boating, I can be there for you. If a location has special meaning for you, it’s my honor to see you married there. Ideas include reception centers, homes, gardens or parks. The options are endless. I’ll be happy to make recommendations if you wish. If your wedding is small (eight people or fewer) I can even conduct your ceremony in my study—a nice alternative to the courthouse for a small, intimate setting.

How long is the ceremony?
I have found any ceremony under 7 minutes finds people looking around and wondering if they have missed something. Anything over 30 minutes will have your guests starting to shuffle their feet. I find somewhere in the 15-20 minute range to be just about right. Again it all depends on your decisions. We can certainly include everything you have ever wanted in your ceremony.

Where does one get a marriage license?
Both bride and groom must accompany each other to the Marriage License Division.  The fee for a Marriage License is $50.00 cash, money order or credit card. They are located on the 1st floor of the Pima County Superior Court Building at 110 W. Congress Street, which is downtown on the corner of Church and Congress. 
I will file your license for you at the courthouse after your ceremony.

How do we reserve our wedding date?
First things first:  Contact me to see if your date and time is available on my schedule. If you decide you would like to have me officiate your event you simply pay a deposit to hold my services and then pay the remaining amount prior to the ceremony. 

Social Security has a rule that the bride must file an SS-5 form (a new application form showing change of name and /or marital status) within the fiscal year for tax purposes, (The SS-5 form should be filed, even if you are keeping your own name) along with an original proof of marriage. Social Security may take a while if you rely on the mail, so we always suggest you have another proof on hand. Therefore you may want to request two proofs of marriage. Check with Social Security first, see if you walk it in, will they just look at it and return it to you. Don’t take a day off from work to go to the Motor Vehicle Bureau and any of the other place until you have an original marriage certificate in hand.

Change your name and address if applicable on the following: