In Missouri, marrying your cousin is legal, but there are specific restrictions depending on the relationship. Let’s break down the legal details.
Marrying a First Cousin
Under Missouri law, first cousins can legally marry. There are no statewide laws prohibiting marriage between first cousins, which makes Missouri one of the states where first cousins are allowed to marry.
Marrying a Second Cousin or More Distant Relative
You can also legally marry second cousins or more distant relatives without facing legal issues. Missouri does not have any restrictions on marriages between these relatives.
When It Becomes Illegal
While first cousins can marry in Missouri, there are restrictions when it comes to closer familial relationships:
Marriage to an Uncle, Aunt, or Sibling: It is illegal in Missouri to marry close family members, such as siblings or an uncle/aunt. These marriages are prohibited under the state’s incest laws to protect against genetic disorders that could arise from inbreeding.
Health and Genetic Concerns: One of the reasons for restricting marriages among close relatives is to reduce the risk of genetic health problems for potential offspring. Even though first cousins can legally marry, public health concerns are one reason why some people are hesitant to do so.
In Missouri, marriage between first cousins is legal. Marrying a closer relative, like a sibling or aunt/uncle, is illegal and classified as incest. If you’re considering marrying a cousin, it’s important to ensure that both of you are legally allowed to do so under Missouri’s laws.
