The judges of Richmond County Civil and Magistrate Court will officiate “Cinco de Mayo, ‘Nacho’ Average Wedding Ceremonies” with a day of matrimonies May 5.
“Civil and Magistrate Court is the people’s court and believes it is important for the Richmond County community to know that it is making a positive impact in the lives of its citizens,” the judges said in a statement. “Officiating marriage ceremonies is one example of the services the court has the authority to provide.”
The court last year married couples on the popular wedding dates of Valentine’s Day and “Twosday,” or Feb. 22, 2022.
“We hope that periodically offering complimentary ceremonies, on special dates, will be helpful in creating memorable moments in the lives of couples, their families and community members,” the judges said.
In order to have a ceremony, couples must register in advance online, by visiting the civil and magistrate court weddings webpage, www.augustaga.gov/3136/Weddings, although there was no way to register there Monday. They also must purchase a marriage license from the Probate Court of Richmond County.
The free wedding ceremonies will be held at the John H. Ruffin Courthouse, 735 James Brown Blvd. Couples must present a valid marriage license and government-issued ID. Each couple may bring three guests, with a photographer counting as one.
The civil and magistrate judges include Chief Judge Carletta Sim Brown and Presiding Judge Le’Joi Williamson. Part-time judges include Shawn Mirzlak.
Besides marrying couples, the judges of the civil and magistrate court can hear civil disputes about $45,000 or less, evictions and county ordinance violations. They can also issue arrest warrants and set bonds for less serious crimes.
Call 706–821-2370 for additional information.
