Marriage laws vary widely across the United States, and one question that often arises is whether it is legal to marry a cousin. In New York, this is a topic that many people wonder about, especially since some states have strict laws against cousin marriages while others are more lenient. So, is it illegal to marry your cousin in New York? Let’s dive into what the law says.
Is Marrying Your Cousin Legal in New York?
In New York, it is legal to marry your cousin, but there are certain limitations. The state does not prohibit marriages between first cousins, which means that cousins who share one set of grandparents are allowed to marry. This is different from some states, where cousin marriage is either heavily restricted or outright illegal.
New York is one of the states where cousin marriage is permitted, but it’s important to note that there are exceptions and conditions that may affect whether or not you can marry your cousin.
What Are the Restrictions?
While marrying your cousin is generally allowed in New York, there are still certain rules and restrictions that can impact such a marriage:
Health Concerns: The primary concern with cousin marriages often revolves around the genetic risks for children born from such unions. The risk of inherited genetic conditions can be higher when cousins marry and have children. However, New York law doesn’t outright ban cousin marriages because of these risks. If you’re concerned about this, you can consult a genetic counselor to better understand the potential risks before making any decisions.
Age Restrictions: Just like any marriage in New York, both parties must be of legal age to marry, which is 18 years old without parental consent. If either party is younger, parental consent or judicial approval may be needed for the marriage to be legal.
No Marriages Between Close Relatives: While first cousins are allowed to marry in New York, marriages between closer relatives, such as siblings, half-siblings, or parents and children, are prohibited under New York law. This is consistent with incest laws, which aim to prevent marriages that could result in genetic issues or other legal complications.
Are There Any Health Concerns with Marrying a Cousin?
One of the main concerns with cousin marriages is the potential for genetic disorders in children. When cousins marry, the probability of inheriting genetic disorders may be higher due to the shared family genetics. While the risks are relatively low compared to closer relatives, the possibility still exists. If you or your cousin are thinking about marriage and are concerned about these risks, it’s a good idea to seek genetic counseling before making a decision.
Can You Marry Your Cousin in Other States?
Laws about cousin marriage vary greatly by state. In some states, like New York, marrying a cousin is completely legal, while in other states, it is either restricted or banned outright. Some states require cousins to be of a certain age or not have any genetic conditions that might affect the health of their children. It’s always a good idea to check the specific laws of the state where you live to understand the rules regarding cousin marriage.
In New York, it is legal to marry your cousin, and the state does not place any specific restrictions on such marriages. However, like any marriage, both parties must be of legal age, and you must be mindful of the potential genetic risks involved. While the state allows cousin marriages, it’s always wise to consider the possible health concerns and consult a professional if needed. As long as you meet the legal requirements, including age restrictions, marrying your cousin is allowed under New York law.
Sources
[1] https://981thehawk.com/can-i-marry-my-cousin-in-ny/
[2] https://www.yahoo.com/news/york-state-allows-marry-relative-011559407.html
[3] https://www.yahoo.com/news/york-state-allows-marry-relative-002457243.html
[4] https://thewrangler.com/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-new-york-heres-what-the-law-says/2025/06/30/
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
