Marrying a cousin is a topic that often raises questions about legality and social norms across the United States. Each state has its own laws regulating marriage between relatives, and the rules differ significantly. Many people wonder specifically about Michigan’s stance on cousin marriages. This article explores the legal position of cousin marriage in Michigan and what the law ultimately says.
Legal Status of Cousin Marriage in Michigan
In Michigan, it is illegal for first cousins to marry. The law explicitly prohibits marriage between first cousins, and any such marriage conducted within the state is considered void from its inception. Michigan’s marriage laws, found in the state legislature’s statutes, include first cousins among the relationships that are forbidden from marrying.
This prohibition aligns Michigan with the majority of states in the U.S. where first cousin marriages are banned to varying degrees. The rationale behind these laws often relates to concerns about genetic risks and social norms.
Are There Exceptions or Allowances?
Unlike some states that allow cousin marriages under specific circumstances—such as when the couple is beyond a certain age or infertile—Michigan enforces a blanket ban on first cousin marriages with no exceptions.
However, marriages between relatives more distantly related than first cousins, such as first cousins once removed, second cousins, and beyond, are legally permitted in Michigan. Thus, while close cousin marriages are prohibited, more distant familial relationships do not face such restrictions.
Recognition of Out-of-State Cousin Marriages in Michigan
An important nuance in Michigan’s law is its recognition of cousin marriages conducted outside the state. Historically, Michigan has recognized legally valid first cousin marriages performed in other states, despite their prohibition within Michigan itself. This stance was affirmed as early as 1939 and has been upheld in more recent legal cases, especially in the context of immigration and family law.
Nonetheless, relying on this recognition can be legally complex, especially when it comes to issues of public policy and family court proceedings. Couples in such situations often benefit from consulting with legal experts to understand the full scope of their rights and limitations.
Other Legal Considerations in Michigan
Incest Laws: Michigan prohibits marriage between close relatives including siblings, parent-child, aunt-nephew, and similar direct blood relations, aside from cousins.
Marriage Application: Michigan’s marriage license applications do not explicitly ask applicants if they are related by blood, which can lead to situations where individuals may unknowingly marry a cousin, but the law still declares such marriages void if they are first cousins.
Religious Recognition: Even if civil law permits marriage outside the state, religious institutions such as the Roman Catholic Church may have their own strict rules about cousin marriage and often require dispensations.
Marrying your first cousin in Michigan is illegal and prohibited under state law. These marriages are not valid if performed within the state. However, marriages between more distant cousins are allowed. Michigan does recognize first cousin marriages legally conducted in other states, but such cases can involve complex legal considerations.
Anyone contemplating marriage between cousins in Michigan or with ties to the state should seek legal advice to navigate the nuances and ensure compliance with the law.
Key Points:
First cousin marriage is illegal in Michigan, with no exceptions.
More distant cousin marriages (first cousins once removed, second cousins) are legal.
Michigan recognizes first cousin marriages legally performed out-of-state.
The law aligns with broader incest and marriage statutes prohibiting close kin unions.
This legal framework reflects Michigan’s cautious approach to cousin marriage, balancing state public policy with respect for familial diversity.
Sources
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States)
(https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=MCL-551-3)
(https://answers.justia.com/question/2021/06/19/can-two-first-cousins-marry-in-michigan-848720)
(https://www.rnlawgroup.com/691-first-cousin-marriage-under-u-s-immigration-law/)
(https://dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-michigan/)
