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 Pennsylvania, marriage is recognized as a legal union between two individuals, which establishes rights and obligations between them as defined by state law. The Pennsylvania Marriage Law, primarily found in Title 23 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, outlines the requirements for a valid marriage, such as obtaining a marriage license, the minimum age for marriage with or without parental consent, and prohibitions on certain types of marriages (e.g., bigamous or incestuous marriages). Parties entering into marriage can alter their legal rights and obligations through prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, which must be in writing and signed by both parties. While marriage is intended to be a lifelong commitment, Pennsylvania law also provides for the dissolution of marriage through annulment, divorce, or death. The state allows for both fault-based and no-fault divorces, with specific grounds and procedures detailed in the statutes. Additionally, legal separation is recognized in Pennsylvania, although it does not end the marriage; it allows for the separation of financial and legal responsibilities between the spouses.