Marriage laws vary significantly across different states, and one common question people often ask is whether it is legal to marry a cousin. In Arkansas, the rules around cousin marriages may surprise you. While some people assume marrying a cousin is illegal everywhere, the law in Arkansas allows it under specific circumstances. In this article, we’ll explore what the law says about cousin marriages in Arkansas, including any restrictions and exceptions that you need to be aware of.
Is It Legal to Marry Your Cousin in Arkansas?
Yes, it is legal to marry your cousin in Arkansas, but with some restrictions. Arkansas law does not prohibit cousin marriages, but it does have specific guidelines that regulate the process. First cousins can legally marry in Arkansas, but certain conditions must be met for the marriage to be recognized.
In Arkansas, the legal age for marriage is 18, or 17 with parental consent. This applies to cousin marriages as well. Additionally, cousins who are related by blood may marry as long as they are not closer relatives, such as siblings or half-siblings. It’s important to note that there are no specific restrictions on whether the cousins are first cousins, second cousins, or more distant relatives. However, they cannot be too closely related, like parent-child or sibling-sibling pairs.
Why Does Arkansas Allow Cousin Marriages?
There are many factors that influence marriage laws, and cousin marriage laws are often based on cultural, historical, and biological considerations. In Arkansas, cousin marriages are generally permitted because they are seen as not significantly increasing the risk of genetic disorders in offspring, especially when the cousins are not closely related. The state’s law follows a broader trend seen in many other states, where cousin marriages are not automatically banned unless there is a direct biological relationship that could lead to health concerns for potential offspring.
What Are the Restrictions for Cousin Marriages in Arkansas?
While cousin marriages are allowed in Arkansas, there are a few important rules to keep in mind:
Age Requirement: Both parties must meet the minimum legal age requirement. As mentioned, individuals need to be at least 18 years old to marry. If either party is 17, they may marry with the consent of at least one parent and permission from the court.
No Close Blood Relation: The law does not allow marriages between individuals who are directly related by blood, such as parent-child, siblings, or half-siblings. First cousins, second cousins, and more distant cousins can legally marry.
Marriage Licenses: Like any other marriage, you will need to apply for a marriage license from the local county clerk’s office. Both parties must be present to apply and provide proof of identity, age, and other legal requirements. This applies to cousin marriages as well.
Consanguinity and Affinity: Arkansas law does not permit marriage between individuals who are closely related by consanguinity (blood relation) or affinity (marriage relation). For example, a step-sibling would not be allowed to marry someone if the relationship is deemed too close by law.
Health Concerns of Cousin Marriages
While cousin marriages are legal in Arkansas, there are some concerns about the potential genetic risks for children born to cousins who marry. These risks are generally considered low for more distant cousins, like second or third cousins. However, first cousins may have a slightly higher risk of passing on recessive genetic disorders. In many cases, couples who are first cousins may be advised to consult a genetic counselor to assess potential risks before proceeding with marriage and having children.
Other States and Cousin Marriages
It’s important to understand that cousin marriage laws vary widely across the United States. In some states, cousin marriages are completely banned, while in others, they are allowed with restrictions. Arkansas falls into the category of states where cousin marriages are legal under certain conditions. If you live in or plan to travel to another state, always check the local marriage laws to understand what is allowed.
In Arkansas, marrying your cousin is not illegal, but certain conditions must be met for the marriage to be recognized. As long as the cousins are not too closely related and meet the age requirements, they can legally marry in the state. While cousin marriages are allowed, it’s a good idea to consider the potential health risks and consult with a medical professional or genetic counselor if needed. Understanding the law and potential implications will help ensure that the process goes smoothly.
Sources
[1] https://thewrangler.com/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-arkansas-heres-what-the-law-says/2025/06/06/
[2] https://www.lawinfo.com/resources/family-law/arkansas/
[3] https://www.insideedition.com/gallery/kissing-cousins-states-where-marrying-your-relative-legal-48234
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7jEyIHPacc
