23-101. Nature of marriage relation.

23-101

Chapter 23.--DOMESTIC RELATIONS
Article 1.--MARRIAGE

      23-101.   Nature of marriage relation.(a) The marriage contract is to be considered in law as a civil contractbetweentwo parties who are of opposite sex. All other marriages are declared to becontrary to the public policyof this state and are void. The consent of the parties is essential. Themarriage ceremonymay be regarded either as a civil ceremony or as a religious sacrament,but the marriage relation shall only be entered into, maintained orabrogated as provided by law.

      (b)   The state of Kansas shall notrecognize acommon-law marriage contract if either party to the marriage contract is under18years of age.

      History:   L. 1867, ch. 84, § 1; G.S. 1868, ch. 61, § 1; R.S.1923, 23-101; L. 1980, ch. 106, § 1;L. 1996, ch. 142, § 1;L. 2002, ch. 143, § 1; July 1.