Introduction

Próspera ZEDE (Zone for Employment and Economic Development) is a special autonomous zone in Honduras designed to foster economic development through a unique legal framework. One significant aspect of Próspera ZEDE’s autonomy is its authority over marital law. This article delves into Próspera ZEDE’s autonomy, relevant rules, and the legal process for marrying and registering a marriage within this jurisdiction.

Autonomy on Marital Law

Próspera ZEDE operates under a distinct legal regime that grants it autonomy over various aspects of governance, including marital law. This autonomy allows Próspera to establish its own rules and procedures for marriage, distinct from the national laws of Honduras. The legal foundation for this autonomy is rooted in article 329 of the Honduran Constitution, the ZEDE Organic Law and the Próspera Charter, which empower Próspera to govern itself in many areas, including personal and family law.

Relevant Próspera ZEDE Rules

The primary legal documents governing marital law in Próspera ZEDE are the Uniform Premarital and Marital Agreements Act and the Próspera Personal Registry Statute. Here’s an overview of their key provisions:

Uniform Premarital and Marital Agreements Act

The Roatán Common Law Code (RCLC) adopts the Uniform Premarital and Marital Agreements act as the applicable rule concerning marriage within Próspera ZEDE (RCLC, Div. 3, Chap. 6, § 3604). This act provides the legal framework for premarital and marital agreements within Próspera ZEDE, allowing couples to define their financial and property arrangements. It includes provisions on:

• The formation, validity, and enforceability of premarital and marital agreements.
• The rights and obligations of spouses regarding property, spousal support, and other marital matters.
• Mechanisms for amending or revoking agreements.

Próspera Personal Registry Statute

This statute establishes the Próspera Personal Registry, which is responsible for maintaining records of personal information, including marriage registrations. Key sections include:

• Section 3: Establishes the Próspera Personal Registry as the repository for filings and information required for residents of Próspera.
• Section 4: Details the role and authority of the Registrar of the Próspera Personal Registry.
• Section 5: Outlines the fees for services provided by the Personal Registry, including document filings and certifications.

Legal Process to Marry and Register a Marriage in Próspera ZEDE

1. Conduct the Marriage Ceremony

• Perform a marriage ceremony according to your personal, cultural, or religious preferences. Ensure the presence of witnesses as required by your chosen ceremony.
• Obtain a marriage certificate signed by the officiant and witnesses, if any.

2. Prepare the Necessary Documentation

• Spouses must sign a Marital Agreement.
• Proof of residence or e-residence in Próspera ZEDE.
• If previously married, provide a divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse.

3. Submission to the Próspera Personal Registry Office

• Submit the signed marriage Marital Agreement along with the necessary documentation to the Próspera Personal Registry Office.
• Pay the applicable filing fee, which is $50.00 (USD) or 1200 Lempira according to the Próspera Personal Registry Statute.

4. Review and Approval

• The Próspera Personal Registry Office will review the submitted documents to ensure they comply with legal requirements.
• Upon approval, the marriage will be officially registered in the Próspera Personal Registry.

5. Issuance of the Official Marriage Certificate

• Once registered, an official Próspera ZEDE marriage certificate will be issued to the couple. This certificate serves as legal proof of the marriage.

Termination or Dissolution of Marriage

In Próspera ZEDE, the termination or dissolution of marriage can be done as provided for in the marital agreement between the parties.

Dispute Resolution

The parties to a marriage agreement are free to select their dispute resolution forum. However, in the absence of such selection, the Próspera Arbitration Center serves as the default arbitration service provider. The arbitration follows the rules and procedures of the Próspera Arbitration Center, and the decision is final and binding on the parties.

Status of Same Sex Marriage

The Constitution of Honduras prohibits same sex marriage (art. 112) and the Penal Code punishes those who contract or officiate marriages forbidden by law. However, under the Interamerican Human Rights Court (IAHRC), in Consultive Opinion No. OC-24/17, has determined that Member States of the American Human Rights Convention, such as Honduras, have a duty to recognize the right of marriage to same sex couples. The Supreme Court of Honduras, however, has refused to recognize the binding nature the IAHRC’s Consultive Opinion, and has upheld the constitutional ban on same sex marriage.

Conclusion

Próspera ZEDE’s autonomy over marital law provides a streamlined and efficient process for marriage registration, distinct from the national legal system. By understanding the relevant rules and following the legal process, couples can ensure their marriage is legally recognized and protected within Próspera ZEDE. For detailed guidance and assistance, consulting with legal professionals familiar with Próspera ZEDE’s legal framework is highly recommended.