It is illegal to marry your first cousin in Missouri. The state’s marriage laws explicitly prohibit marriages between first cousins, along with other close blood relatives such as siblings, parents and children, grandparents and grandchildren, uncles and nieces, and aunts and nephews.
What Missouri Law Says
Missouri Revised Statutes Section 451.020 states:
“All marriages between parents and children, including grandparents and grandchildren of every degree, between brothers and sisters of the half as well as the whole blood, between uncles and nieces, aunts and nephews, first cousins, and between persons who lack capacity to enter into a marriage contract, are presumptively void; and it shall be unlawful for any city, county or state official having authority to issue marriage licenses to issue such marriage licenses to the persons heretofore designated…”
This means:
- First cousin marriages are void and not recognized if performed in Missouri.
- It is illegal for any official to issue a marriage license to first cousins.
- Officials who knowingly issue such licenses can be charged with a misdemeanor.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Unlike some states that allow first cousin marriage under certain conditions (such as age or infertility), Missouri has a blanket ban with no exceptions for first cousins. More distant relatives, like first cousins once removed or second cousins, are allowed to marry in Missouri.
Recognition of Out-of-State First Cousin Marriages
Missouri generally does not allow first cousins to marry, but there is some evidence that the state may recognize first cousin marriages that were legally performed in states where such unions are permitted. However, this is a complex legal area and may depend on specific circumstances.
Other Cousin Relationships
- First cousins once removed, second cousins, and more distant cousins are allowed to marry in Missouri.
- The law is less clear about “half first cousins” (where the parents are half-siblings), so consultation with a legal expert is advised if this applies to your situation.
Table: Cousin Marriage in Missouri
| Relationship | Legal to Marry in Missouri? |
|---|---|
| First Cousin | No |
| First Cousin Once Removed | Yes |
| Second Cousin | Yes |
| Half First Cousin | Unclear, seek legal advice |
| Out-of-State First Cousin Marriage | Possibly recognized, but not performed in-state |
Key Takeaways
- First cousin marriage is illegal in Missouri and licenses will not be issued for such unions.
- More distant cousin relationships (first cousin once removed, second cousin, etc.) are legal.
- If you are considering marriage to a cousin, and have questions about your specific relationship or out-of-state recognition, consult a qualified attorney.
You cannot legally marry your first cousin in Missouri. The law is clear and strict on this point, with no exceptions. Marriages between more distant cousins are permitted. If you marry your first cousin in another state where it is legal, Missouri may recognize the marriage, but this is not guaranteed and can be legally complex.
Sources
- https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=451.020
- https://dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-missouri/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://getordained.org/state-marriage-laws/missouri
- https://www.findlaw.com/state/missouri-law/marriage-laws-in-missouri.html
