CanI marry a man that is 8 years older than me?

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CanI marry a man that is 8 years older than me?

His almost 26 years old and I am 18 years old. We want to get married but my parents are against it. Can we have problems with the law?

Asked on December 15, 2010 under Family Law, California

Answers:

M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 13 years ago | Contributor

First of all, in CA "the age of consent" is 18.  This the age at which someone may get married without their parent's consent.  So legally, you can get married now whether or not your parents approve.  And there is no law about the age difference between the parties.  As long as you are over 18, you can marry someone who is 100 if you want to.

That having been said, think about why your parents don't want you to marry.  They may have very valid reasons. If you want to show just how mature you really are, let them know that it's legal for you to do get married and that they cannot control it.  But then tell them that you don't feel the need to rush into things like a child.

The fact is that while it may not seem it now, 18 is still very young.  If this is the right person for you, he will wait a bit longer.


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