Is It Illegal to Marry Your Cousin in New Mexico? Here’s What the Law Says

First cousin marriages are authorized in New Mexico. Since first cousin marriages are not included among the forbidden relationships, they are not expressly prohibited by state law.

Marriages involving siblings, parents and children, aunts and nephews, or uncles and nieces are all deemed incestuous under New Mexico statutes; however, first cousins are not taken into account.

Types of Cousins Allowed to Marry

Any kind of cousin can lawfully get married in New Mexico, including:

• First cousins (those who share common grandparents)
• Half first cousins (first cousins through a half-sibling of a parent)
• First cousins once removed (children of first cousins)
• Second, third, and fourth cousins (and further out) are also permitted to marry.

Marriage License Requirements

Couples must apply in person at a County Clerk’s office for a marriage license in order to get married in New Mexico. Although the couple may be asked about their kinship throughout the application process, being first cousins does not prevent the issuing of a marriage license. The license is valid for a year after it is issued and costs between $25 and $40.

Important Considerations

Although cousin marriages are permitted in New Mexico, couples should be advised that if they are performed outside of the state, some states may not accept them. Therefore, if there are intentions to relocate or travel after marriage, it is necessary to investigate the rules of any other states involved.

Sources:

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
2. https://www.prenuptialagreements.org/new-mexico-marriage-laws/
3. https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/chapter-40/article-1/section-40-1-7/
4. https://www.dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-new-mexico/

Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!