No, it is illegal to marry your first cousin in Washington State. Washington law specifically prohibits marriages between individuals who are “nearer of kin to each other than second cousins, whether of the whole or half blood”. This means that first cousin marriages are not allowed in Washington.
Here’s what the law says:
1. Prohibited Marriages: Washington law (RCW 26.04.020) states that marriages are not permitted between people who are closer relatives than second cousins. This includes first cousins, siblings, parents, children, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
2. Recognition of Out-of-State Marriages: If two first cousins get married in a state or country where such a marriage is legal, Washington will generally not recognize that marriage if either party was a resident of Washington at the time of marriage, or if the marriage is otherwise prohibited by Washington law.
3. Living Together: While marriage is not allowed, there is no law prohibiting first cousins from living together or being in a relationship in Washington.
Table
| Relationship | Marriage Legal in WA? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Cousin | No | Prohibited by state law |
| Second Cousin | Yes | Allowed |
| Out-of-State First Cousin Marriage | No (if prohibited by WA law) | Not recognized if either party is a WA resident or if otherwise prohibited |
Key Points:
1. First cousin marriage is illegal in Washington.
2. Second cousin marriage is legal.
3. First cousin marriages performed elsewhere are not recognized in Washington if they violate state law.
4. Living together as cousins is not criminalized.
Always consult a family law attorney for advice on specific situations, as laws and their interpretations can change.
Sources
[1] https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=26.04.020
[2] https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=26.04&full=true
[3] https://www.avvo.com/legal-answers/can-my-cousin-and-i-live-together-in-the-state-of–4963302.html
[4] https://www.findlaw.com/state/washington-law/washington-annulment-and-prohibited-marriage-laws.html
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
