In Nevada, it is illegal to marry your cousin. The law explicitly prohibits marriages between individuals who are more closely related than second cousins—this includes first cousins, first cousins once removed, and, in most cases, even half-blood cousins.
What the Law Says
Nevada law (NRS 122.020) states that no two people who are closer in relation than second cousins (or cousins of the half blood) can marry. Marriages between first cousins are considered “incest” under Nevada statutes—a classification that includes not only sexual relations but also the act of marrying a cousin.
Marrying a cousin is therefore a criminal offense in the state. The statute is strictly enforced, regardless of whether the marriage would be legal in another state or country.
The penalties for engaging in a prohibited marriage can be severe: conviction of marrying a cousin may result in felony charges, with sentences ranging from two years to life in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Marriages Performed Out-of-State
Genetic and Public Policy Rationale
Are Any Cousin Marriages Allowed?
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Can you marry your first cousin in Nevada? No, it is explicitly illegal.
Does it matter if you are half-cousins? Marriages between cousins of the half blood (sharing only one grandparent) may be legal if they are second cousins or more distant, but not first cousins.
What about cousin marriages from other states? Nevada will not recognize these marriages if the couple is more closely related than second cousins.
If you are considering marrying your cousin, Nevada is not a legal option. Not only is it prohibited, but violating this law carries serious criminal penalties. If you seek recognition or wish to marry in the United States, you must look to a state where such marriages are legal.
Summary Table: Cousin Marriage in Nevada
| Relationship | Marriage Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First cousin | No | Criminal offense, void |
| First cousin once removed | No | Illegal |
| Second cousin | Yes | Legal |
| More distant relatives | Yes | Legal |
In Nevada, protecting family health and public policy outweighs any potential exceptions—so marrying your cousin is strictly forbidden by law.v
Sources
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
[2] https://courtroomproven.com/blog/is-it-legal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-nevada/
[3] https://www.lvcriminaldefense.com/incest-and-child-brides-in-nevada/
[4] https://www.leg.state.nv.us/Division/Research/Publications/PandPReport/30-FL.pdf
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage
