IN this article I shall consider the position in this country in relation to marriage contracted abroad.

Many British citizens marry abroad, and a particular area of concern is the status of that marriage under the English legal system. The position under English law is that provided the marriage is legally recognised (i.e. validly contracted) in the country that it takes place in it is deemed to be valid in England and Wales.

However, in light of the Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall marriage in Bali, which was found to be not validly contracted for the purposes of English law, it is almost always advisable that anyone getting married abroad should contact a solicitor or the local British embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.

One should not place too much reliance on travel agents or any third party to ensure that the ceremony is valid, it is better to check for yourself and be sure of the legal position. Indeed it is possible to visit the local Register Office to be absolutely certain the marriage will be recognised by the English legal system.

Further, many people hold the view that the marriage contracted abroad must be registered with the local Register Office in England. There is no such requirement in this country and on return there is no need to register the marriage with the Register Office. Indeed to register the marriage subsequently at the local Register Office will have the effect of creating a second marriage and this can create difficulties at a later stage especially in the event of any subsequent divorce proceedings.

The foreign marriage certificate can be used to change your name on any documents and with your bank just as you would if you married in this country.

Finally, it is always a good idea to obtain several copies of your marriage certificate - just in case you lose the original, as it is very difficult to get further copies at a later date.

For advice on all your legal matters please contact eiher Ebrahim Foolat or Ibrar Hussain on 01254 672222.