First cousin marriage is illegal in West Virginia. Both the state code and legal resources make it clear that you cannot marry your first cousin or double cousin in West Virginia.
The law specifically prohibits marriages between individuals who are first cousins by blood, as well as double cousins (where siblings from one family marry siblings from another, producing children who are cousins through both parents).
What the Law Says
According to West Virginia Code §48-2-302:
“A man is prohibited from marrying his mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, granddaughter, half sister, aunt, brother’s daughter, sister’s daughter, first cousin or double cousin. A woman is prohibited from marrying her father, grandfather, brother, son, grandson, half brother, uncle, brother’s son, sister’s son, first cousin or double cousin.”
This prohibition applies to relationships by blood (consanguinity) and, in some cases, relationships created by marriage (affinity)
Exceptions
Adopted Cousins: The law makes an exception for cousins related solely through adoption. If your cousin relationship is only because of adoption and not by blood, you are allowed to marry in West Virginia.
More Distant Cousins: Marriages between more distant relatives—such as first cousins once removed, second cousins, and beyond—are legal in West Virginia.
No Special Exceptions
Unlike some states that allow first cousin marriage under special circumstances (such as age or infertility), West Virginia has a blanket ban with no exceptions for first cousins or double cousins.
What About Marriages from Other States?
If you were legally married to your first cousin in another state where it is allowed, West Virginia may not recognize that marriage as valid under its own laws.
Key Takeaways
First cousin and double cousin marriages are illegal in West Virginia.
Adopted cousins and more distant cousins (first cousins once removed, second cousins, etc.) can legally marry.
There are no exceptions to the ban for first cousins or double cousins.
If you are considering marriage to a cousin in West Virginia, it’s important to carefully determine your relationship and consult the law or a legal professional if you have questions.
Sources
[1] https://code.wvlegislature.gov/48-2-302/
[2] https://codes.findlaw.com/wv/chapter-48-domestic-relations/wv-code-sect-48-2-302/
[3] https://dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-west-virginia/
[4] https://code.wvlegislature.gov/48-2-303/
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
