In Montana, it is illegal to marry your first cousin. State law specifically lists marriages between first cousins as prohibited, alongside other close familial relationships such as siblings, parents and children, and aunts/uncles with nieces/nephews. This prohibition applies whether the relationship is by whole or half blood.
What About Other Cousin Relationships?
- First Cousins Once Removed & Half-Cousins: Montana law is clear about first cousins, but for more distant relationships, such as first cousins once removed or half-cousins, the law does not explicitly prohibit marriage. These unions are generally allowed in the state.
- Second Cousins and Beyond: Marriages between second cousins and more distant relatives are legal in Montana.
Other Legal Considerations
- Sexual Relations and Cohabitation: While marriage between first cousins is not allowed, Montana law does not prohibit first cousins from having sexual relations or living together as a couple.
- Marriage License Application: When applying for a marriage license in Montana, applicants must disclose if they are related and specify the nature of the relationship. If you are second cousins or in another permitted relationship, this will not prevent you from obtaining a license.
Summary Table: Cousin Marriage in Montana
| Relationship Type | Marriage Legal in Montana? |
|---|---|
| First cousins | No |
| First cousins once removed | Yes |
| Half-cousins | Yes |
| Second cousins or more distant | Yes |
You cannot legally marry your first cousin in Montana. The law is explicit in its prohibition. However, marriage to more distant cousins (first cousins once removed, half-cousins, second cousins, etc.) is permitted. If you are considering marriage and are related, be prepared to disclose the relationship when applying for a marriage license.
Sources:
- https://archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0400/chapter_0010/part_0040/section_0010/0400-0010-0040-0010.html
- https://catcountry1029.com/ixp/628/p/eww-can-you-marry-your-cousin-in-montana/
- https://xlcountry.com/does-montana-allow-kissing-cousins-the-answer-might-surprise-you/
- https://dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-montana/