Ambivalence toward Legal Compliance in Unregistered Marriage Practices in Agam Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the ambivalence toward legal compliance in the practice of unregistered marriage in Agam Regency, Indonesia. Although marriage registration is mandated by national law as a means of ensuring legal certainty and protecting the rights of spouses and children, unregistered marriages continue to occur and are socially accepted in certain communities. This research employs an empirical legal approach with a socio-legal perspective. Data were collected through interviews with religious leaders, marriage actors, community leaders, and relevant government officials, as well as through the examination of legal documents and related regulations. The findings reveal that legal ambivalence emerges from the coexistence of two competing normative systems: religious legitimacy and state legal requirements. Many individuals perceive marriage as valid once religious requirements are fulfilled, while marriage registration is regarded as an administrative rather than substantive obligation. Economic constraints, bureaucratic obstacles, cultural traditions, and limited legal awareness further contribute to the persistence of unregistered marriage practices. The study concludes that legal compliance regarding marriage registration is shaped not only by legal norms but also by social, religious, and cultural considerations that influence individual decision-making. This research contributes to the development of Islamic family law and socio-legal studies by demonstrating how legal pluralism creates ambivalent attitudes toward state law in matters of marriage and family regulation. The findings provide insights for policymakers in designing more effective strategies to promote marriage registration and strengthen legal protection for families.