In Oklahoma, it is illegal for first cousins to marry each other within the state. Oklahoma law explicitly prohibits marriage between first cousins, declaring such marriages incestuous, illegal, and void. This prohibition is part of Oklahoma’s statutes addressing consanguinity (blood relations) and incest, which also bar marriages between closer relatives such as ancestors and descendants, siblings, uncles and nieces, and aunts and nephews. Violating these laws can result in criminal charges, including felony penalties.
However, an important nuance in Oklahoma law is that a marriage between first cousins performed legally in another state where it is allowed will be recognized as valid and binding in Oklahoma, even though the state does not permit the marriage to be performed within its own jurisdiction. This recognition applies only if the marriage was otherwise legal where solemnized.
Laws aim to prevent incestuous relationships due to genetic and social concerns, and Oklahoma treats violations seriously, with potential felony convictions that carry harsh penalties, including prison time. Marrying closer relatives or engaging in sexual relations within restricted degrees of kinship is considered a felony under Oklahoma law.
- Marrying your first cousin in Oklahoma is illegal and considered incest.
- Marriages between first cousins that are legally performed in another state where allowed are recognized by Oklahoma law.
- Oklahoma forbids marriage between various close blood relatives to prevent incest.
- Violations can lead to felony charges with severe legal consequences.
This legal framework reflects Oklahoma’s strong stance against consanguineous marriages, while acknowledging legal validity of out-of-state cousin marriages if performed where legal.
Sources
[1] https://www.theoklahomacityattorney.com/oklahoma-city-lawyer-blog/whos-ineligible-for-marriage-in-oklahoma-know-the-law/
[2] https://www.wirthlawoffice.com/incest-charges.html
[3] https://law.justia.com/codes/oklahoma/title-43/section-43-2/
[4] https://www.yeklaw.com/blog/2024/july/immigration-and-marriage-between-cousins/
[5] https://shellesimonlaw.com/first-cousin-marriage-under-us-immigration-law/
