Cameron Miranda
Marrying one's cousin has been a topic of debate for a long time. Cousin marriage was legal in all US states before the Civil War. However, cousin marriage laws vary across the United States, with some states prohibiting it and others allowing it. Missouri is one of the states that prohibit marriages between first cousins. This means that marrying your cousin-in-law is also prohibited, assuming that your cousin-in-law is a first cousin to your spouse. However, marriages between more distant cousins, such as second cousins, are allowed in the state.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Marrying your first cousin in Missouri | Not allowed |
| Marrying your cousin-in-law in Missouri | Not allowed |
| Marrying your second cousin in Missouri | Allowed |
| Marrying your first cousin once removed in Missouri | Allowed |
| Marrying your half-cousin in Missouri | Not allowed |
| Marrying your adopted cousin in Missouri | Not allowed |
| Missouri's stance on cousin marriages compared to other states | Relatively relaxed |
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What You'll Learn
Marrying your first cousin is prohibited in Missouri
Missouri's prohibition on first-cousin marriages is not unique; in the United States, the legality of cousin marriages varies from state to state. As of February 2025, 24 states prohibit marriages between first cousins, 18 states allow them, and eight states allow only some marriages between first cousins. Marrying one's first cousin is considered incest, which is illegal in many jurisdictions.
The prohibition on first-cousin marriages in Missouri is not a recent development. In the mid-19th century, several reports emerged implicating cousin marriages in the occurrence of "idiocy," as well as physical deformities like deafness and blindness. These reports, despite being contradicted by other studies, gained widespread acceptance and led to the implementation of cousin marriage prohibitions in numerous states by the 1880s.
Today, the persistence of these legal bans has been attributed to various factors, including the influence of religious morality, the desire to uphold social order, and the perceived need to safeguard the creation of healthy offspring. While some studies have questioned the assumption that offspring of first cousins are at a significantly higher risk of health issues, the increased risk of autosomal recessive genetic disorders and congenital malformations in children born from consanguineous marriages remains a concern.
It is important to note that Missouri does allow marriages between more distant cousins, such as first cousins once removed, second cousins, and so on. If you are considering marrying your cousin in Missouri, it is advisable to consult with a family law attorney to understand the specific laws and restrictions that may apply.
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Marrying your cousin-in-law once removed is allowed
Marrying your first cousin is illegal in Missouri. The law prohibits marriages between parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, siblings, aunts and nephews, uncles and nieces, and first cousins. However, Missourians are allowed to marry their first cousin once removed, second cousin, third cousin, and so on. This means that marrying your cousin-in-law once removed is allowed in Missouri, as they are considered a more distant relative.
In the United States, the legal status of first cousin marriage varies from state to state. It is illegal or largely illegal in 32 states and legal or largely legal in 18. Eight states allow only some marriages between first cousins, with conditions such as mandatory genetic counselling or proof of infertility. Cousin marriage laws are often related to incest laws, and the definition of incest varies by jurisdiction. In some states, incest is defined as a sexual relationship or marriage between individuals who are closely related, including first cousins. However, other states may have more specific definitions of incest that include half-cousins, double cousins, or adopted cousins.
The laws regarding cousin marriages have evolved over time, influenced by various factors such as social order, religious morality, and concerns about the health of offspring. While cousin marriages were legal in all states before the Civil War, the number of states banning cousin marriages doubled by the 1920s. Today, the majority of states prohibit marriages between first cousins, and Missouri is one of them.
It is important to note that cousin marriage laws can be complex and subject to change. While Missouri allows marriages between more distant cousins, such as first cousins once removed, it is always advisable to consult with a family law lawyer or legal professional to understand the specific laws and restrictions in the state. They can provide accurate and up-to-date information regarding the legality of marrying your cousin-in-law once removed in Missouri and guide you through any legal requirements or considerations.
In summary, while marrying your first cousin is prohibited in Missouri, marrying your cousin-in-law once removed is generally allowed. However, it is crucial to seek legal advice to ensure you are fully compliant with the current laws and regulations governing cousin marriages in the state.
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Missouri's prohibited relationships list is short compared to other states
Missouri prohibits marriages between parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, siblings, half-siblings, uncles and nieces, aunts and nephews, first cousins, and between persons who lack the capacity to enter into a marriage contract. A marriage is considered null and void if it falls under any of these prohibited relationships. Missouri's prohibited relationships list is relatively concise compared to other states, which have more extensive lists of prohibited relationships and additional factors to consider.
For example, some states distinguish between different types of cousins, such as half-cousins, double cousins, or first cousins once removed. Other states consider factors such as infertility, age, adoption status, cultural traditions, and the requirement for genetic counselling. Missouri does not explicitly mention these factors in its prohibited relationships list.
The history of cousin marriage laws in the United States is complex and influenced by various social, religious, and scientific factors. Before the Civil War, cousin marriage was legal in all states. However, in the mid-19th century, studies emerged linking cousin marriage to negative health outcomes, leading to an increase in state prohibitions. Despite contradictory evidence, these studies gained widespread acceptance, and the number of states banning cousin marriage doubled by the 1920s.
While Missouri does prohibit first-cousin marriage, it does not appear to have additional restrictions or considerations beyond those listed. The state's prohibited relationships list remains shorter than many other states, making it unique in its concise approach to outlining ineligible relationships for marriage.
It is important to note that Missouri, like other states, has specific requirements for obtaining a marriage license, such as providing government-issued identification and a social security card. These procedural requirements are separate from the prohibited relationships outlined in Missouri law, and couples must adhere to both sets of criteria to have a legally recognized marriage in the state.
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Cousin marriage laws are closely related to incest laws
In the United States, cousin marriage laws vary from state to state. In 18 U.S. states, first-cousin marriage is legal, while 24 states prohibit it. Cousin marriage laws are closely related to incest laws, which also vary by jurisdiction. Incest is typically defined as a sexual relationship or marriage between closely related individuals. In many jurisdictions, first cousins are considered closely related under incest laws, and marriage or sexual relations between them are considered incestuous and illegal.
The legality of cousin marriage and incest varies depending on the degree of consanguinity or blood relationship between the individuals involved. Factors such as whether the cousins are half-cousins, double cousins, infertile, or above a certain age may also be considered. Some states, such as Arizona, only allow cousin marriage if one spouse is unable to reproduce. In some cultures and communities, cousin marriages are ideal and encouraged, while in others, they are considered incestuous and stigmatized.
Historically, cousin marriage was practiced by indigenous cultures in Australia, North America, South America, and Polynesia. Before the Civil War, cousin marriage was legal in all U.S. states. However, in the 1840s, studies emerged implicating cousin marriage as a cause of mental and physical deprivation in offspring. These studies influenced 13 states and territories to pass cousin marriage prohibitions by the 1880s.
Missouri is one of the states that prohibits marriages between first cousins. According to Missouri law, marriages between first cousins are "presumptively void," and it is unlawful for any official to issue marriage licenses to such couples.
It is important to note that the information provided here is not legal advice, and individuals with specific questions regarding the legality of cousin marriage or incest should consult a legal professional in their jurisdiction.
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Marrying your cousin-in-law may be considered incest in some states
The laws concerning cousin marriage are often closely related to incest laws, family laws, and sex crime laws. In many jurisdictions, first cousins are considered closely related under incest laws, and marriage or sexual relationships between them are deemed incestuous and illegal. However, the definition of incest and the legality of incestuous relationships vary across jurisdictions. Some states may prohibit sexual relations or cohabitation between cousins, while others may allow it with certain restrictions, such as requiring genetic counselling or mandating that one spouse is unable to reproduce.
The history of cousin marriage laws in the United States is influenced by various factors. Before the Civil War, cousin marriage was legal in all states. However, in the mid-19th century, studies emerged implicating cousin marriages in mental and physical disabilities in offspring, leading to a wave of prohibitions. Anthropologist Martin Ottenheimer suggests that marriage prohibitions were also introduced to maintain social order, uphold religious morality, and ensure the creation of fit offspring.
While Missouri does not allow marriages between first cousins, it is important to note that the laws regarding cousin marriage can be complex and subject to change. Individuals considering such marriages should consult with a family law lawyer to understand the specific laws and potential penalties in their state. Additionally, if religious ceremonies are desired, certain churches may have their own requirements and processes for obtaining permission.
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Frequently asked questions
Marrying your cousin-in-law is not explicitly mentioned in Missouri's marriage laws. However, Missouri prohibits marriages between first cousins.
Marriages between parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, siblings, aunts and nephews, uncles and nieces, and first cousins are prohibited in Missouri.
Fiancées must go to the local county courthouse and obtain a marriage license before the marriage ceremony. Both individuals must bring government-issued identification and a social security card. The fees vary by county.
Yes, it is important to note that cousin marriage laws can be complex and vary by jurisdiction. In Missouri, marriages between more distant cousins, such as first cousins once removed or second cousins, are permitted. However, it is always advisable to consult with a family law lawyer or legal professional to understand the specific laws and requirements in Missouri.
