What is a DONLIM?

And why do celebrants use acronyms?!

A DONLIM is the Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marriage. Celebrants shorten the name because, boy, what a bloody mouthful.

So, what is it for?

The law requires that marrying couples sign a DONLIM as close as possible to the ceremony, but before the ceremony begins. In short, you must sign the document to say “there is nothing stopping me from marrying”. By signing the document, you agree that you are:

• not already married

• not in a prohibited relationship

• of marriageable age

My standard practice is to visit you on the morning of your wedding, to check in and ask you to sign the DONLIM as a declaration that you are eligible to marry. I will witness both your signatures and send the DONLIM off to Births, Deaths and Marriages after your marriage ceremony.

The DONLIM is the last legal document you will sign before your ceremony. You can find a copy of the form here.

If you would like me to be your celebrant, we’ll meet up and I’ll explain the DONLIM (and other legal documents) in detail. At our meeting, you’ll be able to ask any questions. If you have a burning question before (or after) that time, by all means, send me an email!