An Overview of Secret Marriage

Written by
Sheri Stritof
Sheri Stritof has written about marriage and relationships for 20+ years. She's the co-author of The Everything Great Marriage Book.
Learn about our editorial process
Sheri Stritof
Published on 09/16/19 by Sheri Stritof
Sheri Stritof has written about marriage and relationships for 20+ years. She's the co-author of The Everything Great Marriage Book.
Learn about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated 09/16/19

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Definition: A secret marriage is a marriage that is kept secret from family and friends. A secret marriage is usually a civil marriage, but there are also members of the clergy who will perform a secret marriage.

There are locales that allow a marriage ceremony to be held in a closed court session and the file is sealed. Only the judge has a record of the marriage.

In California, couples who have lived together can obtain a confidential marriage license that will not appear in the public records.

Also Known As: Judicial secret marriage

Examples: If you've been married secretly and want a formal ceremony after your secret marriage to one another, it is not necessary to obtain a second marriage license.