If you’re considering marriage to a cousin in Massachusetts, you might be wondering if it’s legally allowed. While it may seem like a personal decision, laws surrounding marriage in the state do have specific rules. Here’s what you need to know about marrying your cousin in Massachusetts.
Can You Marry Your Cousin in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, it is legal to marry your cousin. There is no state law that specifically prohibits cousin marriages, and it is allowed for both first cousins and more distant cousins. Unlike in some other states, Massachusetts does not have any restrictions or bans on cousin marriages, making it one of the states where such marriages are legally recognized.
Are There Any Restrictions or Conditions?
While marrying a cousin is legal in Massachusetts, there are certain medical and genetic concerns that may make cousin marriages a topic of discussion. Historically, cousin marriages have raised concerns about the potential for genetic disorders in offspring, but modern medical science generally views the risk as being low for more distant cousins.
The state does not require genetic testing or impose any specific health checks before approving cousin marriages. However, the law does specify that people who are closely related, such as siblings or parents and children, cannot marry under any circumstances due to incest laws.
What About Marrying First Cousins?
In Massachusetts, first cousins are legally allowed to marry, as there are no restrictions that prevent it. This contrasts with some other states where first cousins may not marry without specific conditions. In some states, cousins may be required to meet certain genetic screening conditions or wait for approval from a court.
Why Is Marrying Your Cousin Legal in Massachusetts?
The legality of cousin marriages in Massachusetts is in line with the state’s general approach to marriage laws, which mainly focuses on preventing marriages that are deemed to be too closely related, such as between siblings or parent and child. Marriages between cousins are not considered close enough to create significant genetic concerns in most cases, so the law does not restrict them.
In Massachusetts, it is not against the law to marry your cousin, including first cousins. There are no state-level prohibitions, and cousin marriages are legally recognized in the state. However, while it may be legal, it’s important to be aware of any social, cultural, or personal considerations before proceeding.
Sources
[1] https://wbsm.com/massachusetts-first-cousins-marry/
[2] https://wokq.com/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-first-cousin-in-new-england/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
[4] https://www.reneelazarlaw.com/blog/2024/03/can-people-who-live-in-massachusetts-legally-marry-their-first-cousin/
[5] https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-law-about-marriage
