Is It Illegal to Marry Your Cousin in Ohio ? Here’s What the Law Says

Yes, it is illegal to marry your first cousin in Ohio. Ohio law prohibits marriages between individuals who are “nearer of kin than second cousins,” which includes first cousins.

Details on Ohio Law

• Statutory Prohibition: According to the Ohio Revised Code, only individuals “not nearer of kin than second cousins” may legally marry in the state.
• First Cousins: Since first cousins are closer than second cousins, marriage between first cousins is not permitted under Ohio law..
• Second Cousins and Beyond: Marriages between second cousins or more distant relatives are allowed.

Legal Interpretation and Case Law

• Not Void, But Not Approved: While Ohio law does not expressly state that first cousin marriages are “void,” it does not approve them, and such marriages cannot be legally performed or recognized in Ohio.
• Out-of-State Marriages: If first cousins marry in a state where it is legal and then move to Ohio, the marriage may not be recognized, and legal complications can arise.

Table: Ohio Cousin Marriage Law

Key Takeaways

• First cousin marriage is not legal in Ohio.
• You cannot obtain a marriage license to marry your first cousin in Ohio.
• Marriages between second cousins or more distant relatives are permitted.
• If you are considering marriage to a cousin, consult legal counsel for up-to-date guidance, especially regarding recognition of out-of-state marriages.

If you have further questions about Ohio’s marriage laws, consult the Ohio Revised Code or a qualified attorney for the most current legal advice.

Sources

1. https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3101.01
2. https://rklawyers.net/family-law/marriage-faq/
3. https://www.ghmc.org/marriage/getting-married/marriage-requirements
4. https://uclawreview.org/2022/07/27/shocking-truth-about-ohio-marital-law/
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States