Is it permissible for a lawful marriage contract to be performed between a man and a divorced woman in the presence of her guardian, witnesses, and close relatives only, without documenting it or publicly announcing it at the present time, provided that the public announcement and consummation take place later?

If the offer and acceptance take place between the woman's guardian or his agent, and the suitor or his agent, in the presence of two witnesses, then the contract is valid, provided there is no impediment. It should be noted that the woman's guardian cannot be a witness. As for publicizing the marriage, it is recommended but not obligatory according to most scholars. However, it is advisable to document the marriage contract due to the great harms and loss of legal rights that result from neglecting it.