Cousin marriage is a topic that often brings mixed opinions. While it’s legal in some parts of the United States, other states completely ban it. So, what about Arkansas?
If you’re wondering whether you can legally marry your cousin in Arkansas, the answer is no—but there’s more to understand. This article breaks down what the law says, why the restriction exists, and how it compares to laws in other states.
Is It Legal to Marry Your Cousin in Arkansas?
No, first cousin marriage is illegal in Arkansas.
According to Arkansas Code § 9-11-106, marriages between first cousins are not recognized in the state. That means:
You cannot legally marry your first cousin in Arkansas.
Even if you get legally married in another state where cousin marriage is allowed, Arkansas will not recognize that marriage as valid if both parties are residents of Arkansas.
What About Second Cousins or Distant Relatives?
The law specifically mentions first cousins, which means marriages between second cousins or more distant relatives are not prohibited under Arkansas law. If you’re related but not closely (like second or third cousins), you may still be able to legally marry in Arkansas.
What If You Marry Your Cousin in Another State?
Some people try to marry their cousin in a state where it’s legal—like California or New York—and then return to Arkansas. However, Arkansas law says that any such marriage is void if it would have been illegal had it occurred in Arkansas.
In simple terms:
If Arkansas wouldn’t let you marry your cousin here, they won’t recognize it even if you marry elsewhere.
Are There Any Exceptions?
No, Arkansas law is very clear on this. There are no exceptions for:
Religious reasons
Cultural customs
Personal consent
Length of relationship
If you’re first cousins, you cannot legally marry under any circumstances in the state of Arkansas.
Why Is Cousin Marriage Banned in Arkansas?
The main reason often given is concern over genetic disorders in children born to closely related individuals. While scientific opinions vary on the actual risks, many U.S. states, including Arkansas, still uphold these laws due to:
Health concerns
Traditional views on family relationships
Legal consistency with other state laws
How Arkansas Compares to Other States
Here’s a simple comparison of cousin marriage laws across nearby states:
| State | First Cousin Marriage Legal? | Recognized If Married Elsewhere? |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | No | No |
| Missouri | No | Yes |
| Tennessee | Yes | Yes |
| Mississippi | No | No |
| Texas | No | No |
| California | Yes | Yes |
As you can see, Arkansas is among the stricter states when it comes to cousin marriage.
In Arkansas, marrying your first cousin is not only illegal—it’s also not recognized, even if the marriage is performed elsewhere. While second or more distant cousins may legally marry, first cousins are legally prohibited from doing so under Arkansas law.
If you’re considering marrying a relative, it’s important to understand both the legal and social implications, especially in a state like Arkansas where such marriages are clearly banned. When in doubt, consult with a family law attorney to fully understand your rights and options.
