It’s against the law to marry your first cousin in Montana. Marriages between first cousins and other close relatives, including siblings and forebears, are expressly forbidden by the state’s marriage laws.
Legal Framework
Montana’s marriage laws include a number of consanguinity-related restrictions. The Montana Code Annotated (MCA) 40-1-401 states that marriages between the following are forbidden:
- Ancestors and descendants (e.g., parent-child)
- Siblings (including half-siblings)
- First cousins
- Uncles and nieces or aunts and nephews.
Context of Cousin Marriages in the U.S.
In the US, cousin marriages have very different legal statuses. Montana is one of the states that completely forbids first cousin marriages, but other states permit them under specific circumstances (such as age limitations or following genetic counseling). Currently, 18 states permit cousin weddings either completely or under some restrictions, whereas 32 states have similar bans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are thinking of getting married to a first cousin in Montana, you should be aware that this type of union is not accepted by the law and would be deemed void by the state.
- https://courts.mt.gov/forms/marriage
- https://cardozolawreview.com/the-unconstitutionality-of-state-bans-on-marriage-between-first-cousins/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://www.reddit.com/r/coolguides/comments/wg6h3q/a_map_of_where_it_is_legal_to_marry_your_first/
- https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/montana-marriage-laws-outline
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Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.