Solemnization Law and Legal Definition
Solemnization refers to the performance of a formal marriage ceremony before witnesses. In other words, it is the public performance of a sacrament or solemn ceremony with all appropriate rituals.
In Norman v. Norman, 121 Cal. 620 (Cal. 1898), it was observed that consent alone will not constitute marriage; it must be followed by a solemnization. However, no particular form of solemnization is required, but the parties must declare, in the presence of the person solemnizing the marriage, that they take each other as husband and wife.
Similarly, in the solemnization of marriage, no particular form is required except that the parties must declare in the presence of the judge, minister or magistrate, and the attending witnesses, that they take each other as husband and wife. In every case there shall be at least two witnesses present besides the person performing the ceremony.[ Barnett v. Hudspeth, 211 Cal. App. 2d 310 (Cal. App. 1st Dist. 1962)]
