Marriage laws vary widely from state to state in the United States, and one common question that often comes up is whether it is legal to marry a cousin. If you are in New Hampshire and wondering if marrying your cousin is allowed, you might be surprised to learn that there are specific rules about cousin marriages in this state.
Let’s explore what New Hampshire law says about marrying a cousin, the legal requirements, and some of the concerns around it.
What Does New Hampshire Law Say About Marrying a Cousin?
In New Hampshire, it is not illegal to marry your cousin. Unlike some states that have strict laws against cousin marriages, New Hampshire allows cousins to marry. The state does not impose a legal prohibition on first cousins marrying one another. However, there are certain important factors and requirements to consider.
Legal Requirements for Marriage in New Hampshire
While cousin marriages are legal in New Hampshire, there are still standard legal requirements for marriage that anyone must meet:
- Age Requirement: Both parties must be at least 18 years old to marry without parental consent. If either party is between 16 and 18, parental consent is required.
- Marriage License: A marriage license must be obtained from the local town or city hall before the wedding can take place. This license must be signed by both parties and returned to the issuing office after the ceremony.
- No Close Blood Relationship: While cousins can marry, New Hampshire law prohibits marriage between individuals who are too closely related by blood. For example, marriages between siblings or between an individual and their parent or grandparent are strictly prohibited.
Why Do Some States Have Laws Against Cousin Marriages?
Many states have laws against cousin marriages due to concerns about genetic risks and health problems that could arise from children born to closely related individuals.
The closer the genetic relationship between two people, the higher the risk that they could pass on inherited genetic conditions to their children. These concerns often lead states to either prohibit cousin marriages or impose certain restrictions on them.
However, New Hampshire does not prohibit cousin marriages, and while health risks may still exist, the state’s laws are more permissive when it comes to cousin marriages.
Are There Any Other Restrictions on Marrying a Cousin?
Though cousin marriages are allowed, certain conditions still apply:
Marriage between direct relatives (such as siblings or parent-child relationships) is prohibited, as mentioned earlier.
If the cousins are also related by adoption or step-relationships, this can affect the legality of the marriage. For example, step-siblings who are not blood relatives may not face the same restrictions as blood cousins.
Cultural and Social Views on Cousin Marriages
Although marrying a cousin is legal in New Hampshire, it is still a topic that can be viewed differently by different people, depending on their cultural or social perspectives. Some cultures and communities have historically accepted cousin marriages, while others may find them controversial.
It’s important to recognize that while cousin marriages are legal, they may not be socially accepted in every community.
In New Hampshire, it is not illegal to marry your cousin, and the state does not have restrictions against cousin marriages. As long as both individuals meet the general marriage requirements (such as age and consent), they can legally marry each other, even if they are cousins.
However, it is always a good idea to consider the potential health risks, social implications, and cultural perspectives surrounding cousin marriages. If you are unsure or have specific concerns, it may be helpful to consult a legal expert for personalized advice.
