Marrying a cousin is a subject often surrounded by social stigma and legal complexity. But in Rhode Island, the legal landscape regarding cousin marriage is clear and distinct from many other states. This article explores whether it is illegal to marry your cousin in Rhode Island, detailing the relevant laws and considerations for couples.
Legal Status of Cousin Marriage in Rhode Island
Rhode Island allows marriage between first cousins, meaning it is not illegal for cousins to marry in the state. The law does prohibit marriages between closer relatives such as siblings, parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, and certain in-law relationships, but first cousins are not included in these prohibited categories.
Types of Cousins Allowed to Marry
Rhode Island permits various cousin relationships to marry without special restrictions:
First cousins (sharing common grandparents)
Half first cousins (cousins through a half-sibling connection)
First cousins once removed (children of first cousins)
Second cousins and beyond
This means the state provides broad legal acceptance for cousin marriages, distinguishing it from other places where only distant cousins or none at all may marry.
Marriage License Application Process
Couples seeking to marry in Rhode Island, including cousins, must apply for a marriage license through the local town clerk. The application requires a pre-marriage worksheet and must be completed in the presence of the clerk. The form does not specifically ask about familial relationships beyond immediate prohibited ones, so being first cousins is not an impediment.
Residency Requirements
Neither party must be a Rhode Island resident to marry there, making it a destination for some couples from states that prohibit cousin marriages. However, couples should verify whether their home state recognizes such marriages if they plan to return there.
Social and Religious Considerations
While legal, cousin marriage can face cultural and religious obstacles in Rhode Island. For example, the Roman Catholic Church historically disfavored cousin marriages and requires a dispensation process before such marriages can be solemnized in church—though rules have relaxed somewhat in recent years.
Comparison with Other States
Rhode Island stands among 17 states in the US where first cousin marriage is explicitly legal without significant restrictions. Neighboring New England states like Massachusetts and Vermont also allow cousin marriages, whereas New Hampshire strictly prohibits them.
Common Questions about Cousin Marriage in Rhode Island
Is marrying a sibling legal? No, Rhode Island forbids marriages between siblings and half-siblings.
Are second cousins allowed to marry? Yes, second cousins and beyond may marry without restrictions.
Are there any special medical requirements? Rhode Island does not mandate genetic counseling or medical checks for cousin marriages.
It is legal to marry your cousin in Rhode Island, including first cousins and other close cousin relations. The state’s laws permit these marriages under the standard marriage licensing process without additional hurdles. Couples should be aware of social and religious considerations and check the recognition of their marriage in other states if applicable.
Sources
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States)
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage)
(https://dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-rhode-island/)
(https://www.legalmatch.com/law-library/article/cousin-marriage-laws.html)
(https://wokq.com/is-it-illegal-to-marry-your-first-cousin-in-new-england/)
