In Utah, marriage between first cousins is generally prohibited. The law considers marriages between close relatives-including parent and child, siblings, aunts/uncles and nieces/nephews, and first cousins-as incestuous and void.
Exceptions for First Cousins
First cousins can legally marry in Utah only under specific conditions:
- If both parties are 65 years old or older; or
- If both parties are 55 years old or older and a district court finds that either party is unable to reproduce (typically requiring proof of infertility).
Outside of these exceptions, first cousin marriage is not permitted in Utah.
Other Relatives
- Marriages between relatives closer than first cousins (such as siblings, parent and child, aunt/uncle and niece/nephew) are always illegal and void in Utah.
Summary Table
| Relationship | Marriage Legal in Utah? |
|---|---|
| First cousins | Only if both are ≥65, or both ≥55 and infertile (by court order) |
| Closer relatives | Never (always illegal) |
| Second cousins or more | Legal |
Key Takeaways
- You cannot marry your first cousin in Utah unless you meet the age and/or infertility exceptions.
- Closer relative marriages are always illegal.
- Second cousins and more distant relatives can marry without restriction.
First cousin marriage in Utah is only legal if both parties are at least 65, or both are at least 55 and infertile as determined by a court. Otherwise, it is not allowed.
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://www.utcourts.gov/en/self-help/case-categories/family/marriage.html
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/first-cousins-legally-married-utah-040148370.html
- https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title81/Chapter2/81-2-S402.html
