Understanding the Declaration of No Legal Impediment (DONLIM)
Once the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) is lodged, the next key legal step for couples getting married in Western Australia is signing the Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marriage (DONLIM). This short but essential legal form confirms you’re free to marry under Australian marriage law. It’s required for all weddings conducted by an Authorised Civil Celebrant in WA and ensures your marriage meets all legal criteria before the ceremony begins.
What Is the Declaration of No Legal Impediment?
The DONLIM is a required legal document under Section 42 of the Marriage Act 1961. Both parties must declare that:
You are not already married to someone else
You are both over 18 years of age
You are not closely related (e.g. siblings or parent/child)
You are entering into the marriage freely and voluntarily
This is the final check to confirm that you meet the legal requirements to marry in Western Australia.
When and How Do You Sign the DONLIM?
You will usually sign the DONLIM just before the ceremony or during your rehearsal. As your Authorised Civil Celebrant, I will bring the form, check the details with you both, and guide you through signing it with your two witnesses (over 18). It is quick, straightforward, and completely stress-free.
Why Does It Matter?
The DONLIM is not just another piece of paperwork. It is the final legal safeguard that protects the validity of your marriage. Without it, your ceremony cannot proceed legally. That is why I make sure it is completed correctly and with care. Once it is signed, we are ready to start the ceremony.
After the Ceremony
Following your wedding, I submit all legal documents to the WA Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages (WA BDM) within 14 days. Your marriage is then officially registered, and you will be eligible to apply for your Registered Marriage Certificate.
Still Have Questions?
I am here to guide you through every legal step and make your ceremony feel effortless. If you need help understanding the DONLIM or other legal wedding documents in WA, feel free to get in touch.
Call That Celebrant © 2025 Elise is an Authorised Civil Celebrant based in Bunbury, proudly delivering relaxed, modern, and legally sound ceremonies across Perth, South West WA, and beyond. Whether you're planning a big celebration or a sweet elopement, I’ll guide you through everything; from the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and the Declaration of No Legal Impediment (DONLIM) to applying for your WA Registered Marriage Certificate. As a trusted wedding professional, I’m here to make your day stress-free, meaningful, and fully legal under the Marriage Act 1961.
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