Yes, it is legal to marry your first cousin in New York. The state has no laws that prohibit such marriages, and they are recognized and protected by New York law. This makes New York one of the states where marriages between first cousins are allowed. Let’s dive into the details of what the law says and other important information about cousin marriages in New York.
What Does New York Law Say?
Under New York’s Domestic Relations Law, marriage between first cousins is explicitly permitted. The law outlines which relationships are prohibited when it comes to marriage. It bans unions between very close relatives like parents and children, siblings (whether whole or half-blood), and uncles or aunts with nieces or nephews. However, first cousins are not included in these restrictions, meaning they can legally marry each other in New York.
Marriage License and Legal Recognition
You are legally allowed to obtain a marriage license to marry your first cousin in New York. The NYC Office of the City Clerk confirms that such marriages are allowed, and the state recognizes them as valid. This means that if you are in New York, you can marry your first cousin without legal issues.
Other Relatives and Incest Laws
New York law prohibits marriages between other closely related family members. Marriages between a parent and child, siblings (whether whole or half-blood), and uncles/aunts with nieces/nephews are strictly prohibited and considered incestuous. However, the law makes an exception for first cousins and permits their marriage.
Key Details About Marrying First Cousins
First Cousins: You can legally marry your first cousin in New York.
Half-First Cousins and First Cousins Once Removed: These relationships are also allowed under New York law.
Recognition in Other States: While your marriage is legal in New York, some states that ban cousin marriages may not recognize your union if you move to or travel through them.
Marriage Restrictions in New York
| Relationship Type | Legal to Marry in NY? |
|---|---|
| Parent/Child | No |
| Sibling (whole or half) | No |
| Uncle/Aunt & Niece/Nephew | No |
| First Cousin | Yes |
| Second Cousin and beyond | Yes |
Important Notes
Social Attitudes: Although marrying a first cousin is legal in New York, it is not a common practice and might carry social stigma in some communities.
Genetic Counseling: New York does not require genetic counseling for couples who are first cousins, unlike some states like Maine, which have such requirements before they allow cousin marriages.
Same-Sex Marriages: New York also allows same-sex marriages. However, the laws around incestuous relationships have not been updated to specifically mention same-sex couples who may be close relatives. The same incest restrictions apply to both opposite-sex and same-sex marriages.
In New York, it is legal to marry your first cousin. The state law clearly defines which familial relationships are prohibited, and first cousins are not included in these restrictions.
While legal, cousin marriages are not very common and may face social stigma in some communities. However, New York does not require genetic counseling, and these marriages are recognized by the state, making them legally valid.
Sources
[1] https://991thewhale.com/legal-to-marry-first-cousin-in-new-york/
[2] https://www.yahoo.com/news/york-state-allows-marry-relative-002457243.html
[3] https://981thehawk.com/can-i-marry-my-cousin-in-ny/
[4] https://wblk.com/is-it-legal-to-marry-your-cousin-in-new-york/
[5] https://www.nycbar.org/get-legal-help/article/family-law/marriage-is-a-contract/
