Colorado law designates several individuals authorized to solemnize marriages. These include ordained ministers of any religious denomination, judges of courts of record, retired judges, and public officials authorized to perform marriage ceremonies within their jurisdiction. A couple may also select a friend or family member to perform their ceremony by obtaining a one-time designation as an officiant from a court of record.
Ensuring a legally valid marriage ceremony is fundamental to establishing the rights and responsibilities associated with marriage in Colorado. A valid marriage provides legal protection regarding property, inheritance, and healthcare decision-making. Historically, religious leaders were primarily responsible for officiating marriages. However, Colorado’s legal framework has evolved to offer more inclusive and flexible options, reflecting societal shifts towards greater personal autonomy and separation of church and state.