Marrying a cousin might seem unusual to some, but it’s more common than many people think. Different states in the U.S. have different rules about cousin marriage.
So, if you’re wondering whether it’s legal to marry your cousin in New Mexico, this article will give you a simple and clear answer. Let’s explore what New Mexico law says and why the rules are the way they are.
What Does the Law Say About Cousin Marriage in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, it is legal to marry your first cousin. The state does not have any laws that prohibit marriages between first cousins. This means two people who are first cousins can legally get married in New Mexico without facing any legal trouble.
New Mexico is one of the few states in the U.S. that allows first-cousin marriage without any special conditions. There’s no need to get extra approval or prove anything medically. As long as both individuals are above the legal age of marriage and give their full consent, the marriage is recognized under state law.
Why Is It Legal in Some States but Illegal in Others?
Each U.S. state has the power to make its own marriage laws. In some states, cousin marriages are banned due to old beliefs about genetics or social traditions.
These laws were created many years ago when people didn’t fully understand genetics. Some thought children born to cousins would always have health problems, although modern science shows the risk is often small.
New Mexico, like a few other states, does not follow this outdated thinking. Lawmakers in the state do not see cousin marriage as a serious risk or problem. Therefore, the state does not place any legal block on such marriages.
Can You Marry a Cousin From Another State in New Mexico?
Yes, if you and your cousin come from a state where cousin marriage is not allowed, you can still travel to New Mexico, get married there, and your marriage will be legally valid in New Mexico.
However, when you return to your home state, it might not recognize your marriage if cousin marriage is illegal there. So, it’s important to check the laws in both states to avoid legal confusion.
Are There Any Age Limits or Rules?
Like all marriages in New Mexico, cousin marriages must follow the general marriage laws. This means:
The legal age to marry is 18 without parental consent. With parental permission, the minimum age is 16.
You must apply for a marriage license at a county clerk’s office.
You must not already be married to someone else.
As long as you meet these basic conditions, marrying your cousin is fully legal.
What About Health Concerns?
Some people worry about genetic issues in children born to cousin couples. While the risk is slightly higher than unrelated couples, modern studies show the chances of serious health issues are still quite low. If you’re concerned, you can always speak with a doctor or genetic counselor before starting a family.
In simple words, yes, it is legal to marry your cousin in New Mexico. The state’s laws are clear and do not ban this kind of marriage. As long as you meet the general rules about age and consent, you can marry your first cousin without any legal trouble in the state.
Whether you agree with it or not, cousin marriage is a personal choice, and New Mexico leaves that decision up to the couple.
Understanding these laws helps avoid confusion and makes sure couples know their rights. While other states may have different rules, New Mexico keeps it simple and straightforward.
