So, you’re thinking about skipping the $40,000 ballroom and just heading down to the Cook County Marriage Court. Smart move. Honestly, while everyone else is stressing over whether the peonies match the napkins, you’re focusing on the actual marriage part. But here is the thing: the process in Chicago isn’t exactly a "walk-in and walk-out" situation like you see in the movies. It’s a government operation. That means there are rules, specific buildings, and a very particular sequence of events you have to follow if you don't want to get turned away at the door.
Chicago is unique. We have one of the busiest marriage courts in the country. Thousands of couples every year head to the lower level of the Daley Center or one of the suburban branch courts to make it official. It’s efficient, sure, but it can be a bit cold if you aren't prepared for the fluorescent lights and the security lines.
The First Step: It’s All About the License
You cannot just show up at the Cook County Marriage Court and expect a judge to be waiting with a bouquet. Before you even think about the ceremony, you need a marriage license from the Cook County Clerk’s office. This is a separate step.
You and your partner have to go together. You’ll need valid ID—think a driver’s license, passport, or state ID. There is a fee, usually around $60, though that can fluctuate slightly based on county board decisions, so bring a card. Most people go to the Clerk’s office at 118 N. Clark St. right across from the Daley Center.
Here is the kicker: the "24-hour rule."
In Cook County, your license isn't valid until 24 hours after you get it. You can't get the license at 10:00 AM and get married at 11:00 AM. It’s a literal cooling-off period. Also, that piece of paper is only good for 60 days. If you wait 61 days, you’re back to square one, paying another fee.
Where Exactly is the Marriage Court?
Most people assume the Cook County Marriage Court is a specific room with "Wedding" written on the door. It’s actually located in the lower level (concourse) of the Richard J. Daley Center at 50 West Washington Street.
It’s easy to get lost. You’ll go through security—which means taking off your belt and putting your bags through the X-ray—and then head downstairs. It feels a bit like a basement, because, well, it is. But once you get to the Marriage Court desk, things start to feel a little more festive. You’ll see other couples in everything from full tuxedos to jeans and hoodies. That’s the beauty of Chicago; anything goes.
👉 See also: Executive desk with drawers: Why your home office setup is probably failing you
Scheduling and the "Judge of the Day"
You used to be able to just wing it, but these days, the Cook County Marriage Court prefers a bit of order. While some walk-ins might be squeezed in depending on the volume, it is highly recommended to check the current appointment status via the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s website.
The court typically operates on weekdays, and they often have Saturday morning hours, which are incredibly popular. If you want a Saturday, you better plan weeks in advance.
The ceremony itself is performed by a judge. These are real judges who spend the rest of their day hearing civil suits or criminal cases. For them, performing marriages is often the highlight of their week. It’s the one time people are actually happy to be in their courtroom.
Don't expect a 20-minute sermon. These ceremonies are lean.
- You’ll hand over your license.
- The judge will ask if you take each other as spouses.
- You might exchange rings (optional).
- The judge pronounces you married.
- You sign the paperwork.
- Done.
It usually takes about five to ten minutes total.
Costs You Need to Account For
Expect to pay a "Marriage Court fee." This is separate from the license fee you paid to the Clerk. Currently, the court fee for the ceremony is $10. Yes, ten dollars. It is quite literally the cheapest part of living in Chicago. However, keep in mind they usually want cash or a very specific payment method, so double-check the signs when you arrive at the desk.
Misconceptions About Witnesses
Here is something most people get wrong about the Cook County Marriage Court: you don't actually need witnesses.
✨ Don't miss: Monroe Central High School Ohio: What Local Families Actually Need to Know
In many states, you need two people to sign the back of the license. In Illinois? Not required. The judge’s signature is the only one that matters for the legal validity of the document. This is great news for couples who want to elope in total secrecy. You can literally show up as a duo and leave as a married couple without telling a soul.
Of course, you can bring people. But space is tight. The "courtrooms" in the concourse aren't grand cathedrals. If you bring 20 people, most of them will be standing in the hallway peeking through the door. Limit your "entourage" to a handful of close friends or family if you want everyone to actually see the ceremony.
What Happens After the "I Dos"?
After the judge performs the ceremony, they will sign your marriage license. But you aren't finished yet. That signed license has to go back to the Clerk’s office to be recorded.
Usually, the court handles the internal routing of the license back to the Clerk, but you won't get your official "Certified Copy" that day. You’ll have to wait a week or two, then you can go back to the Clerk’s office (or order online) to get the actual certificates.
You need those certified copies for everything:
- Changing your name at the Social Security office.
- Updating your driver’s license.
- Adding a spouse to health insurance.
- Passport updates.
Pro tip: buy at least three or four certified copies. You’d be surprised how many agencies want to keep an original or how easily they get lost in a move.
Regional Variations: Suburbs vs. Downtown
If the Daley Center feels too hectic, the Cook County Marriage Court also operates out of suburban municipal districts. These are often a bit quieter and might have more flexible timing.
🔗 Read more: What Does a Stoner Mean? Why the Answer Is Changing in 2026
- Skokie (District 2): Usually a bit more relaxed.
- Rolling Meadows (District 3): Great if you’re on the Northwest side.
- Maywood (District 4): Convenient for western suburb residents.
- Bridgeview (District 5): Serving the Southwest side.
- Markham (District 6): The South suburban hub.
Each of these locations has its own specific hours for marriages. Always call the specific facility before driving out there, as judges are assigned to marriages based on availability.
The Cultural Vibe of the Daley Center
There is something strangely romantic about the Daley Center marriage experience. You’re standing in the heart of the Loop. The Picasso sculpture is right outside. You have the L-train rumbling nearby.
I’ve seen couples come out of the Cook County Marriage Court and immediately take photos in front of the fountain. It’s a very "Chicago" way to start a life together. It’s gritty, it’s real, and it’s efficient. You’ll see brides in Vera Wang standing next to people in line for traffic court. It’s the ultimate equalizer.
Avoiding the Common Pitfalls
If you want this to go smoothly, avoid these three mistakes:
First, don't show up on a holiday or a day the court is closed. It sounds obvious, but the court follows the county judicial calendar. If it’s a random Monday that happens to be a minor government holiday, the doors will be locked.
Second, don't forget your masks or whatever current health protocols are in place. Since this is a government building, they can be strict about entry requirements.
Third, don't bring prohibited items. Remember, this is a courthouse. No pocketknives, no pepper spray, and definitely no celebratory champagne bottles in your bag. You will be searched. If security finds a "forbidden" item, you’ll have to walk all the way back to your car or throw it away. Not exactly the romantic start you wanted.
Actionable Steps for Your Big Day
If you are ready to pull the trigger, follow this checklist to ensure the Cook County Marriage Court experience is a success.
- Check your IDs: Ensure both of your IDs are current and not expired. The Clerk won't issue a license with an expired ID.
- Apply for the license: Go to the Cook County Clerk’s office at least two days before your planned wedding date. Remember the 24-hour waiting period.
- Confirm the location: Decide if you want the downtown Daley Center experience or a quieter suburban branch.
- Bring the exact fee: Have cash on hand for the $10 court fee. It saves a lot of headache at the window.
- Dress for the weather: You might be waiting outside or in drafty hallways before your name is called.
- Plan your photos: Since the courtroom is small and the lighting is "office-chic," plan to take your "real" photos outside at Dealey Plaza or the nearby Riverwalk after the ceremony.
- Order copies early: As soon as the system allows (usually 7-10 days post-ceremony), order your certified copies so you can start the administrative side of married life.
The Cook County Marriage Court is a testament to the fact that you don't need a massive budget to have a meaningful wedding. It’s about the legal bond and the person standing next to you. Once the judge says the words and you step back out into the Chicago wind, you're just as married as the couple who spent six figures at the Drake Hotel. And you have a much better story about the time you got married in a basement across from a giant rusty sculpture.