Marriage—also known as matrimony or wedlock—is the legal and cultural process by which two people join their separate lives as one. The contractual rights and obligations of the parties to a marriage are generally defined by the state, as provided in the state’s statutes (often in the family code), unless otherwise agreed by the parties in a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. Marriage is intended to last until death, but is often terminated sooner by separation or divorce.
In Arizona, marriage is recognized as a legal union between two individuals, which is intended to merge their lives both legally and culturally. The rights and obligations of the married parties are primarily governed by Arizona state law, which can be found in the Arizona Revised Statutes, particularly within the sections pertaining to family law. These statutes outline the legal requirements for entering into a marriage, such as obtaining a marriage license, the age of consent, and other prerequisites. While marriage is intended to be a lifelong commitment, it can be dissolved through legal separation or divorce, which is also governed by state law. Additionally, couples in Arizona have the option to create prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, which allow them to establish their own terms regarding the division of assets, spousal support, and other matters in the event of a separation or divorce, provided that these agreements meet legal standards and are not in violation of public policy.