Marriage laws are legal regulations that govern the formation and dissolution of marriages. These laws vary by country and often include requirements such as age, consent, and the legal capacity to marry. In many places, couples must obtain a marriage license and may need to fulfill certain conditions, like waiting periods or blood tests. Additionally, marriage laws address issues like property rights, spousal support, and child custody in the event of a divorce. They also define the legal recognition of different types of unions, including same-sex marriage and common-law marriage, which can differ significantly across jurisdictions.