Marriage laws can vary greatly between states in the U.S., especially when it comes to family relationships. In Kansas, there are clear rules regarding who you can and cannot marry, particularly concerning close relatives. If you’re wondering whether first cousins can marry in Kansas, the answer is straightforward: No, they cannot. This article explains Kansas’ marriage laws in simple terms and addresses some common questions related to cousin marriages.
Is First Cousin Marriage Legal in Kansas?
In Kansas, the law strictly prohibits marriage between first cousins. According to Kansas statutes, any marriage between first cousins is classified as incestuous and void. This means such a marriage has no legal standing in Kansas, and it will not be recognized under any circumstances.
Which Family Relationships Are Prohibited?
Kansas law specifically lists close family relationships where marriage is not allowed. These include:
- Parents and children (including grandparents and grandchildren)
- Siblings (including half-siblings)
- Uncles and nieces, aunts and nephews
- First cousins
If individuals from any of these relationships attempt to marry in Kansas, their marriage will be considered legally invalid.
Are There Any Exceptions to This Rule?
Unlike some other states that may allow cousin marriages under special circumstances (such as age or infertility), Kansas has no exceptions. The rule banning first cousin marriages is absolute, applying to everyone equally without any conditions or exceptions.
What About More Distant Relatives?
Kansas does permit marriage between more distant relatives. These include:
- First cousins once removed – Legal
- Second cousins – Legal
These relationships are considered sufficiently distant under Kansas law, so marriage between second cousins and first cousins once removed is allowed.
What If You Marry a First Cousin in Another State?
While Kansas does not allow first cousins to marry within its borders, the state’s rules become more flexible when considering marriages performed in other states. If you legally marry your first cousin in a state where cousin marriage is allowed, like California or Colorado, Kansas will recognize your marriage when you return.
However, there are two conditions that must be met for the marriage to be recognized in Kansas:
- The marriage must be legal in the state where it was performed.
- The marriage must not violate Kansas public policy to the extent that it is deemed unacceptable by the courts.
The Kansas Supreme Court has already ruled that first cousin marriages legally performed elsewhere are valid in the state, as long as they do not conflict with Kansas’ public policy.
Summary Table
| Relationship | Marriage Legal in Kansas? |
|---|---|
| First Cousins | No |
| First Cousins Once Removed | Yes |
| Second Cousins | Yes |
| Out-of-State First Cousin Marriage | Recognized if legal where performed |
In Kansas, you cannot legally marry your first cousin, no matter the circumstances. The law clearly defines such marriages as incestuous and void. However, if you marry your first cousin in another state where it is allowed, Kansas will recognize your marriage when you return, as long as the marriage follows the law of the state where it was performed and does not strongly contradict Kansas public policy.
It’s important for individuals in Kansas to understand local and national marriage laws, especially when it comes to family relationships. If you’re ever unsure about the legality of a marriage, it’s always best to consult with a legal expert to ensure that your relationship is properly protected under the law.
