Civil Union License Fee May Match Marriage License Fee in Kane County

By Nottage and Ward on May 26, 2011

The Courier-News reports that the Public Service Committee in Kane County, one of the larger counties in Illinois, has approved a fee for civil union licenses to be implemented when civil unions become law on June 1. The fee is the same as the current fee to obtain a marriage license in the county, and was proposed by Kane County Clerk Jack Cunningham.

The Committee approved the recommendation regarding the fee on Thursday, April 21. Now, the resolution goes before the county board, and if it is passed, the fee for a civil union license will be $27. A civil union certificate will cost $11. In order for the union to occur, a license is needed. However, the certificate is the evidence that the marriage occurred and needs to be filed with the county clerk’s office. Any additional copies of the civil union certificate will cost $4 apiece. Cunningham stated he believed it made the most sense to have the fee for a civil union license mirror the current fee for a marriage license.

The impact of civil unions in Illinois has yet to be realized, but with the arrival of June 1st coming quickly, counties across the state will need to set fees for civil union licenses, as well as determine how county clerks will ready, prepare, and handle the paperwork.

You may find it beneficial to consult with a Chicago civil union attorney like those at Nottage and Ward before you decide to enter into a civil union in Illinois. For over 20 years, we have exclusively practiced divorce and family law, and we understand the technicalities of civil unions and the financial and legal matters that relate to them, in addition to other issues of family law. To have your questions answered, call 312-332-2915.