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 Illinois, marriage is recognized as a legal union between two people, which establishes rights and obligations between them as defined by state law. The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (750 ILCS 5/) governs marriage in the state, outlining the legal requirements for entering into a marriage, such as obtaining a marriage license, the minimum age without parental consent (18 years), and the prohibition of bigamy and marriage between close relatives. Couples may also enter into prenuptial or postnuptial agreements to alter or confirm the legal effects of their marriage regarding property and financial matters. While marriage is intended to be a lifelong commitment, it can be legally ended through separation or divorce, with the latter process also governed by the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, which addresses issues such as property division, spousal support, and if applicable, child custody and support.