18 V.S.A. § 5147: Solemnization by unauthorized person; penalty; validity of marriage

(a) An individual who, knowing that he or she is not authorized so to do, undertakes to join others in marriage, shall be imprisoned not more than six months or fined not more than $300.00 nor less than $100.00, or both.

(b) A marriage solemnized by an individual who was not authorized to do so under this chapter shall not be void or invalid, provided that the marriage is in other respects lawful and is consummated with a belief on the part of either party so married that the couple were lawfully joined in marriage.