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22 July 2026
Issue: 8171 / Categories: Legal News , Family
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Wedding laws facing 21st century overhaul

Couples could legally marry almost anywhere, from canal boats to cruise ships at sea, under proposals launched last week

Former justice secretary David Lammy said: ‘Too often, the cost of weddings puts this commitment out of reach. That’s why I’m reforming archaic rules, so couples have more freedom to say “I do” on their own terms.’

Officiants will have to determine if a location is suitable, and risk being deauthorised if they fail to uphold standards. In-person interviews to verify identity and eligibility would continue under the proposals.

The consultation, ‘Tying the knot: reforming weddings law in England and Wales’, closes on 24 September.

Issue: 8171 / Categories: Legal News , Family
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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Boodle Hatfield—Tom McLaughlin

Boodle Hatfield—Tom McLaughlin

Boodle Hatfield welcomes new employment partner, Tom McLaughlin

Arc Pensions Law—Victoria Thompson-Hill, Jonathan Mason & Georgi Ivanov

Arc Pensions Law—Victoria Thompson-Hill, Jonathan Mason & Georgi Ivanov

National specialist pensions law firm strengthens team with three new appointments

Jurit—Christian Abletshauser

Jurit—Christian Abletshauser

Jurit appoints Christian Abletshauser to lead family law practice

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